Japanese Spinach Salad with Sesame Dressing

### How to Make Japanese Spinach Salad with Sesame Dressing

#### Step 1: Toast the Sesame Seeds (Optional)
If you’re using **whole sesame seeds**, it’s a great idea to toast them to bring out their nutty flavor. Simply place them in a dry skillet over medium heat and cook, stirring frequently, until they turn golden brown and fragrant. This usually takes just 2-3 minutes. Set them aside to cool.

#### Step 2: Prepare the Dressing
In a small bowl or jar, combine the **sesame oil**, **soy sauce**, **rice vinegar**, **sugar**, **toasted sesame seeds** (ground or whole), **garlic**, and **ginger** (if using). Whisk everything together until the sugar dissolves and the dressing becomes smooth and well-mixed. If you prefer a thicker dressing, you can add a bit more sesame paste or peanut butter. For a smoother texture, you can blend the dressing for a few seconds.

#### Step 3: Assemble the Salad
Place the **fresh spinach** in a large salad bowl. If you’re using **cucumber**, **red onion**, or any other vegetables like **radishes** or **carrots**, add them to the spinach for extra color, crunch, and flavor.

#### Step 4: Dress the Salad
Pour the **sesame dressing** over the spinach and toss gently to coat the leaves evenly. Be sure not to overdress the salad; you can always serve extra dressing on the side for those who want more flavor.

#### Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle the toasted **sesame seeds** over the top of the salad as a garnish. For an extra touch, you can also drizzle a little more sesame oil or a squeeze of lemon juice. Serve the salad immediately, or let it chill in the fridge for about 10 minutes to enhance the flavors.

### Tips for Perfect Japanese Spinach Salad with Sesame Dressing

– **Freshness is Key**: Use fresh, tender spinach for the best flavor and texture. Older spinach leaves can be tougher and have a slightly bitter taste.
– **Make the Dressing Ahead**: The sesame dressing can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to a week. This makes it convenient for meal prep or to have on hand for salads and even as a dipping sauce for dumplings or vegetables.
– **Customize the Vegetables**: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like **cherry tomatoes**, **shredded carrots**, or **edamame** for additional texture and color.
– **Add Protein**: To turn this into a more substantial meal, add grilled chicken, tofu, or shrimp for extra protein. A hard-boiled egg would also be a great addition.
– **Adjust the Sweetness**: If you prefer a sweeter dressing, you can increase the sugar or honey. If you like a more tangy dressing, add more rice vinegar.

### Serving Suggestions

This Japanese Spinach Salad with Sesame Dressing can be served as a refreshing side dish or as a light, healthy main course. Here are a few ideas for serving it:

– **With Grilled Meat or Fish**: This salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, salmon, or even shrimp. The lightness of the spinach and the nutty sesame dressing complements the rich flavors of the protein.
– **As a Starter**: Serve it at the beginning of a meal to whet the appetite. It’s especially perfect alongside other Asian-inspired dishes like **teriyaki chicken** or **sushi**.
– **With Rice or Noodles**: Serve this salad with a bowl of **steamed rice** or **cold soba noodles** for a more filling meal.
– **Add Some Crunch**: For extra texture, sprinkle some crispy **fried onions** or **chopped nuts** (such as almonds or cashews) over the top.

### Why You’ll Love Japanese Spinach Salad with Sesame Dressing

This **Japanese Spinach Salad with Sesame Dressing** is a beautiful combination of flavors and textures, from the crisp spinach to the creamy, nutty dressing. It’s light but packed with flavor, making it an ideal choice for a healthy, refreshing meal. Whether you serve it as a side dish or a main course, it’s sure to impress anyone who tries it.

This dish is quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping for the week ahead. It’s also highly customizable, allowing you to tweak the ingredients to suit your taste preferences. If you’re craving a fresh, vibrant salad that’s both simple and delicious, this Japanese-inspired dish is a must-try!

Try this recipe today, and enjoy the fresh, savory goodness of **Japanese Spinach Salad with Sesame Dressing**—a simple yet incredibly flavorful dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.