Korean salads are often fresh, vibrant, and bursting with bold flavors. The combination of crisp vegetables, a tangy-sweet dressing, and a touch of sesame creates a refreshing dish that can be enjoyed as a side or light meal. This Korean-style salad (often called Yangsangchae) is incredibly versatile, healthy, and perfect for any occasion. Here’s a simple and delicious recipe for a Korean salad:
Ingredients for the Salad:
1 cup napa cabbage, thinly sliced
1 medium cucumber, julienned (or sliced into thin strips)
1 large carrot, julienned or thinly sliced
1/2 red bell pepper, thinly sliced (optional)
1/2 cup daikon radish, julienned (optional but adds a nice crunch)
2 green onions (scallions), thinly sliced
1 tablespoon sesame seeds (roasted)
Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish (optional)
Ingredients for the Dressing:
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
1 tablespoon soy sauce (use tamari for a gluten-free option)
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 teaspoon honey or sugar (for a vegan option, use maple syrup)
1 clove garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon grated fresh ginger (optional, for an extra zing)
1/2 teaspoon chili flakes or a small amount of gochugaru (Korean chili flakes) for a touch of spice (optional)
Pinch of salt (to taste)
1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
Instructions:
Prepare the Vegetables:
Wash and peel the vegetables as needed. Slice the napa cabbage, cucumber, carrot, bell pepper, and daikon radish into thin, even pieces.
Place all the vegetables in a large bowl, making sure they are well mixed.
Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl or jar, combine the rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, honey (or sugar), garlic, ginger (if using), and chili flakes or gochugaru (optional). Stir or whisk until the honey/sugar is dissolved and the dressing ingredients are well combined.
Toss the Salad:
Pour the dressing over the mixed vegetables and toss everything together gently until the veggies are well coated with the dressing.
Garnish:
Sprinkle the sesame seeds over the salad and garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley if desired.
Serve:
Let the salad sit for 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld, or serve immediately. The salad can be served chilled or at room temperature.
Tips for the Perfect Korean Salad:
Crunchy Texture: If you want even more crunch, you can add some shredded lettuce or thinly sliced cabbage to the mix.
Adjust Sweetness: Adjust the sweetness to your liking by adding more or less honey/maple syrup.
Add Protein: For a heartier meal, you can add grilled chicken, tofu, or even some boiled eggs to the salad.
Customize Vegetables: Feel free to add or substitute other vegetables like thinly sliced bell peppers, radishes, or even spinach.
Make it Spicy: If you enjoy heat, try adding more chili flakes or a little gochujang (Korean chili paste) to the dressing for extra kick.
Why You’ll Love This Salad:
Light & Refreshing: This Korean salad is perfect for warmer weather or as a side dish to heavier meals like BBQ or grilled meats.
Packed with Flavors: The sweet, tangy, and savory dressing pairs beautifully with the fresh, crunchy vegetables, creating a satisfying balance of flavors.
Customizable: You can easily modify the ingredients based on your preferences or what’s available in your kitchen.
This Korean Salad is fresh, flavorful, and a great way to enjoy vegetables with a twist. It’s perfect as a side dish for Korean BBQ or a standalone meal for a lighter, healthy option. Enjoy!