Name: Edamame Salad with Cucumber, Cherry Tomatoes, and Ginger-Garlic Dressing Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: Asian Fusion
Ingredients: 2 cups frozen edamame, thawed (12 ounce package); 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cup cucumber, peeled and diced; 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced; 1 grated carrot (about 1/2 cup); 3 tbsp avocado oil; 2 tbsp rice vinegar or lime juice; 1 tbsp soy sauce or liquid aminos; 1 large clove garlic, minced; 1 tbsp fresh ginger, peeled and grated; 2 tsp pure maple syrup; 1 tbsp sesame seeds; Sea salt to taste

Jump to Recipe· 3.8 from 85 reviews

If you are craving a vibrant, nutritious, and absolutely bursting with fresh flavors salad, this Edamame Salad with Cucumber, Cherry Tomatoes, and Ginger-Garlic Dressing Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine tender, protein-packed edamame paired with crisp cucumber and juicy cherry tomatoes, all tossed in a zingy ginger-garlic dressing that makes every bite pop. It’s the perfect side that can brighten any meal or stand on its own for a quick, satisfying lunch or snack. Once you try it, you’ll wonder how you ever had a salad that wasn’t this colorful and delicious!

Ingredients You’ll Need

A large white bowl on a white marbled surface holds a colorful mix of fresh vegetables arranged in layers. The bottom layer is bright green edamame beans, next to a layer of halved red cherry tomatoes mixed with light green cucumber pieces. Above these is a layer of finely chopped purple onion, topped with a generous pile of shredded orange carrot. The textures range from smooth and shiny edamame, to juicy and slightly glossy tomatoes, to the rough, fluffy look of freshly shredded carrot. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this salad lies in its simplicity and freshness. Each ingredient brings its own personality, from the vibrant crunch of veggies to the bold flavor of the dressing, creating a well-balanced and lively bowl that’s as pretty as it is tasty.

2 cups frozen edamame, thawed: The star ingredient, loaded with protein and a lovely pop of green color.
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: Sweet and juicy, these add a burst of red and a touch of acidity.
1 cup cucumber, peeled and diced: Crisp and cooling, cucumber makes the salad refreshing and light.
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced: Just enough sharpness to balance the sweetness, thin slices keep it delicate.
1 grated carrot (about 1/2 cup): Adds sweetness, color, and a subtle crunch for texture contrast.
3 tbsp avocado oil: A smooth and healthy oil that carries the flavors beautifully without overpowering them.
2 tbsp rice vinegar or lime juice: Provides the essential tang that lifts the entire dressing.
1 tbsp soy sauce or liquid aminos: Deep umami that gives the dressing richness and salty balance.
1 large clove garlic: Fresh garlic brings that punch of aroma and sharpness we all love.
1 tbsp fresh ginger, peeled and grated: Bright and slightly spicy for a zing that’s hard to resist.
2 tsp pure maple syrup: The perfect touch of natural sweetness to round off the dressing.
1 tbsp sesame seeds: Adds nutty flavor and nice texture pops throughout the salad.
Sea salt to taste: Enhances and balances all the other flavors beautifully.

How to Make Edamame Salad with Cucumber, Cherry Tomatoes, and Ginger-Garlic Dressing Recipe

Step 1: Thaw and Prepare Your Edamame

Start by giving your frozen edamame some time to thaw. If you’re not in a hurry, pop the package into the refrigerator to thaw slowly. If you need it in a flash, place the edamame in a large bowl filled with cold water and let it sit for about 10 minutes until tender and ready to go. This step ensures that the edamame has that lovely, soft but slightly firm bite you want in your salad.

Step 2: Whisk Together the Ginger-Garlic Dressing

Next up, the magic that ties it all together: the ginger-garlic dressing. In a small bowl, combine the creamy avocado oil, sharp rice vinegar or the bright alternative of lime juice, salty soy sauce, fresh garlic, grated ginger, sweet maple syrup, and nutty sesame seeds. Whisk them vigorously until everything emulsifies into a silky, flavor-packed dressing that’ll coat every bite of your salad in pure deliciousness.

Step 3: Toss the Salad Ingredients

Gather your thawed edamame, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, thinly sliced red onion, and fresh grated carrot into a large bowl. Pour that vibrant ginger-garlic dressing over the top and toss everything gently but thoroughly. You want every morsel to be kissed by the dressing’s zingy, savory, and slightly sweet notes. Don’t forget to taste and add sea salt according to your preference. For those who love a touch of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes is a fantastic addition.

How to Serve Edamame Salad with Cucumber, Cherry Tomatoes, and Ginger-Garlic Dressing Recipe

A close-up view of a light green bowl filled with a colorful salad showing several layers: at the bottom, small pieces of red onion and cucumber with white seeds, followed by bright orange shredded carrots spread evenly throughout, green edamame beans scattered on top, and red cherry tomatoes cut into halves, all mixed together with some sesame seeds visible. A spoon with a wooden handle rests inside the bowl on the right side. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Enhance your salad’s presentation and flavor with a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds or freshly chopped cilantro. Adding some thinly sliced scallions or even a handful of crispy fried shallots can introduce a delightful crunch and an extra layer of flavor, perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself.

Side Dishes

This Edamame Salad with Cucumber, Cherry Tomatoes, and Ginger-Garlic Dressing Recipe pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, pan-seared fish, or even a juicy steak. It also complements any Asian-inspired entrée, making it a versatile side that can enliven weeknight dinners or weekend barbecues alike.

Creative Ways to Present

For a visual wow-factor, try serving the salad in individual mason jars, layering the dressing at the bottom and tossing just before eating. Or, arrange it on a vibrant platter with edible flowers, herbs, or thin cucumber ribbons to create a salad that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. You can even stuff it inside warm pita bread for a quick handheld delight.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep it chilled to preserve the crispness of the vegetables and the freshness of the ginger-garlic dressing. For best flavor, toss the salad again before serving as the dressing may settle.

Freezing

This salad’s fresh veggie crunch doesn’t take well to freezing, so it’s best to prepare it fresh or store only for short-term refrigeration. The edamame can be frozen, but once combined with the other ingredients and dressing, freezing isn’t recommended as textures will suffer.

Reheating

Since this vibrant Edamame Salad with Cucumber, Cherry Tomatoes, and Ginger-Garlic Dressing Recipe is designed to be enjoyed cold or at room temperature, reheating isn’t necessary. If you prefer it slightly warmer, gently bring it to room temperature before serving, but avoid microwaving to maintain its refreshing texture and flavors.

FAQs

Can I use fresh edamame instead of frozen?

Absolutely! Fresh edamame works beautifully when shelled and added to the salad. Just steam or blanch them briefly before cooling and mixing into your salad.

Is there a substitute for avocado oil in the dressing?

Yes! You can use any mild-flavored oil like grapeseed or light olive oil. The key is to choose an oil that won’t overpower the delicate garlic and ginger flavors.

Can this salad be made vegan?

Indeed it is naturally vegan. Just ensure you use soy sauce or liquid aminos without added fish products, and the rest of the salad is all plant-based goodness.

How spicy is the dressing?

The ginger adds a gentle warmth, and the garlic brings a punch, but overall the dressing leans more to zesty and fresh rather than hot. You can always add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you want a bit more heat.

What other veggies can I add?

Feel free to customize! Snap peas, bell peppers, or shredded cabbage would all add lovely crunch and flavor, making this salad your own vibrant creation.

Final Thoughts

Making the Edamame Salad with Cucumber, Cherry Tomatoes, and Ginger-Garlic Dressing Recipe is such a delightfully simple way to bring freshness and color to your table. It’s a dish that’s quick to prepare, packed with nourishment, and bursting with flavor in every bite. Give it a whirl—you might just find your new favorite salad to share with friends and family!

Edamame Salad with Cucumber, Cherry Tomatoes, and Ginger-Garlic Dressing Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need