High-Protein Vegan Asian Salad with Quinoa and Sesame Dressing Recipe

If you’re searching for a delicious, nourishing meal that bursts with vibrant flavors and satisfies your protein needs, look no further than this High-Protein Vegan Asian Salad with Quinoa and Sesame Dressing Recipe. This salad is the perfect blend of crunchy fresh veggies, hearty quinoa, and a zesty, nutty sesame dressing that ties it all together beautifully. Whether you’re planning quick meal prep or just want a refreshing dish to brighten your day, this recipe delivers on taste, texture, and wholesome goodness in every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The charm of this High-Protein Vegan Asian Salad with Quinoa and Sesame Dressing Recipe lies in how simple yet purposeful each ingredient is. Every component plays its role in creating a harmony of flavors and textures – from the crisp veggies to the rich and tangy dressing.

• ¼ cup tamari or soy sauce: Adds umami depth with low sodium options keeping it heart-friendly.
• ¼ cup plus 1 tablespoon rice vinegar: Brings a subtle tang that lifts the whole dressing.
• 1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon maple syrup: Balances out acidity with a gentle sweetness perfectly.
• 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil: Infuses the dressing with nutty warmth and authentic Asian flavor.
• 2 cups chopped cucumber: Provides a refreshing, hydrating crunch to lighten the salad.
• 2 cups chopped celery: Adds a crisp texture and a hint of earthiness.
• 2 cups sweet green peas (thawed): Brings natural sweetness and bright green color.
• 2 cups shelled edamame (thawed): Packed with protein, these young soybeans add a satisfying chew.
• 2 cups cooked quinoa: The star protein of the dish, offering a nutty flavor and fluffy texture.
• 2 cups chopped baby spinach: Loads of iron and gentle earthiness with tender greens.
• ½ cup chopped cilantro: Adds fresh herbal brightness and signature Asian flair.
• ½ cup chopped scallion: Adds mild sharpness and aromatic depth.
• 2 tablespoons plus 2 teaspoons toasted sesame seeds: For crunch and toasty flavor on every forkful.
• Optional fresh lime juice: A squeeze for extra zing before serving, if desired.

How to Make High-Protein Vegan Asian Salad with Quinoa and Sesame Dressing Recipe

Step 1: Whisk the Dressing

Start by combining the tamari, rice vinegar, maple syrup, and toasted sesame oil in a medium bowl. Whisk until everything is nicely blended and the dressing has a cohesive, glossy texture. This dressing sets the tone for your salad providing a perfect balance of savory, sweet, and tangy notes.

Step 2: Prepare the Salad Ingredients

While the dressing is resting, chop the cucumber, celery, baby spinach, cilantro, and scallion into bite-sized pieces. Thaw the green peas and shelled edamame if using frozen, and fluff the cooked quinoa with a fork. Having everything prepped and layered with fresh colors is satisfying and makes assembling a breeze.

Step 3: Assemble Your Salad

You have two great options here. For quick week-long meal prep, layer your jars by pouring some dressing on the bottom, then add equal portions of cucumber, celery, peas, edamame, quinoa, spinach, cilantro, scallion, and sesame seeds. Seal the jars and refrigerate for up to 4 days. When it’s time to eat, give it a good shake then add a squeeze of fresh lime juice!

If you’re serving immediately or prefer a tossed salad, simply combine all the salad ingredients in a large bowl and pour in your dressing. Stir gently but thoroughly until every bite is coated in that luscious sesame dressing.

How to Serve High-Protein Vegan Asian Salad with Quinoa and Sesame Dressing Recipe

Garnishes

Sprinkle extra toasted sesame seeds on top for added crunch and visual appeal. A few extra cilantro leaves or thinly sliced red chili can provide a beautiful pop of color and a hint of fresh brightness or heat, respectively. A wedge of lime on the side invites your guests to personalize their tangy kick.

Side Dishes

This high-protein vegan Asian salad shines as a satisfying main meal on its own, but it pairs beautifully with grilled tofu skewers, steamed dumplings, or even light miso soup for a well-rounded Asian-inspired feast. For a lighter touch, crispy seaweed snacks or edamame pods make perfect side companions.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the salad in clear glass jars layered in vibrant colors for an Instagram-worthy lunchbox treat. Or scoop it into large lettuce cups for a fun finger-food style presentation that’s great for parties or casual gatherings. You can also pile it onto a bed of shredded kale or napa cabbage to add extra leafy goodness and texture.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover salad refrigerated in an airtight container for maximum freshness. The veggies maintain their crunch, and the quinoa soaks in the dressing, intensifying flavors over time. It’s perfect for grab-and-go lunches within 3 to 4 days.

Freezing

Because of the fresh vegetables and dressing, this salad is best enjoyed fresh and does not freeze well. Freezing would alter the texture of the crunchy ingredients and dull the bright flavors of the dressing.

Reheating

This is a chilled salad meant to be enjoyed cold or at room temperature. If you prefer, you can let refrigerated portions sit out for 10-15 minutes before eating to soften the quinoa slightly, but avoid applying heat as it may wilt the greens and change the dressing’s flavor profile.

FAQs

Can I substitute quinoa with another grain?

Absolutely! While quinoa adds a wonderful nutty flavor and high protein punch, you can swap it with cooked brown rice, millet, or farro for different textures. Just remember protein content may vary.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use tamari instead of traditional soy sauce, which typically contains wheat, this salad is completely gluten-free.

Can I prepare the dressing in advance?

Definitely. The sesame dressing can be whisked up a few days ahead and stored in the fridge for up to one week. The flavors often deepen with time.

What makes this salad high-protein?

The combination of cooked quinoa and shelled edamame packs a protein powerhouse, making this salad not just light and fresh but also quite filling and nourishing.

Any tips for keeping the salad fresh when meal prepping?

Layer the dressing at the bottom of the jar and veggies on top to prevent sogginess. Only add tender greens like spinach just before eating or toss them inside if you like them lightly dressed.

Final Thoughts

This High-Protein Vegan Asian Salad with Quinoa and Sesame Dressing Recipe is one of those delightful dishes that feels like a warm hug from the inside out. It’s quick, vibrant, satisfying, and full of personality. I encourage you to give it a try — once you do, it might just become your go-to wholesome meal that’s as exciting to eat as it is good for you!

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