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Fresh spring roll salad with spicy ginger dressing served in a bowl.
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Spring Roll Salad with Spicy Ginger Dressing

A vibrant and refreshing salad combining the best elements of traditional spring rolls, with crisp vegetables, soft rice noodles, and a spicy ginger dressing.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time10 minutes
Total Time25 minutes
Course: Main Course, Salad
Cuisine: Asian, Vietnamese
Keyword: Ginger Dressing, Healthy Salad, Quick Recipe, Spring Roll Salad, Vegetarian
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 275kcal

Ingredients

For the Salad

  • 2 small small carrots, cut into thin strips Sweetness and crunch.
  • 1 medium sweet bell pepper, thinly sliced Color and flavor.
  • 1 small cucumber, sliced into matchsticks Provides refreshing crunch.
  • 1.5 cups shredded purple or green cabbage Adds bulk and texture.
  • 1/4 cup fresh mint, minced Offers aroma.
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, minced Complementary herb.
  • 8 oz thin rice noodles Heart of the salad.
  • 1/4 cup chopped roasted peanuts For crunch.

For the Dressing

  • 2 tbsp canola oil Light oil that adds depth.
  • 1/4 cup rice vinegar Tangy flavor.
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce Adds umami.
  • 1 tbsp agave nectar Counterbalances heat.
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil Nutty finish.
  • 3 tbsp fresh ginger, finely minced Provides a spicy kick.
  • 2 cloves garlic, finely minced Adds pungency.
  • 1/2–1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes For heat.

Instructions

Preparation

  • In a blender, combine the ginger, garlic, soy sauce, agave, rice vinegar, sesame oil, canola oil, and red pepper flakes. Blend until smooth and well-combined. Chill the dressing in the refrigerator while you prepare the salad.
  • Boil water in a pot and cook the rice noodles according to the package instructions. Once cooked, rinse them under cold water to halt the cooking process, then drain well.
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the rinsed noodles with cabbage, cucumber, carrots, bell pepper, cilantro, and mint. Toss gently to mix.
  • Pour the chilled spicy ginger dressing over the salad ingredients. Use tongs or a large fork to toss everything together until it's evenly coated.
  • Just before serving, sprinkle the chopped roasted peanuts and extra cilantro on top for added crunch and flavor.

Notes

Chill the salad for 15-30 minutes before serving to enhance flavors. Customize with your favorite vegetables or add proteins like grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a heartier meal.