Dumpling Salad Recipe

If you are searching for a bright, fresh, and satisfyingly crunchy dish that brings some fun textures and bold flavors to your table, this Dumpling Salad is an absolute game-changer. Imagine crisp pan-fried dumplings nestled atop a vibrant mix of broccoli slaw, edamame, and fresh herbs, all tossed in a sweet and tangy chili dressing. This salad is an exciting fusion of Asian-inspired ingredients and irresistible textures that will keep you coming back for more. It’s perfect for a light lunch, a delightful appetizer, or even a party dish that wows your guests with every bite. Trust me, once you try this Dumpling Salad, it’ll quickly become one of your favorite go-to recipes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Dumpling Salad lies in its simplicity and the way each ingredient plays its part in flavor, crunch, and freshness. With just a handful of components, you create an inviting, colorful salad that balances crispy, creamy, and tangy notes effortlessly.

• Sesame oil: Adds toasty richness and depth of flavor that amps up the Asian-inspired vibe.
• Frozen Wontons/Potstickers: The star protein, crispy on the outside with tender filling inside, providing hearty texture.
• Frozen shelled edamame: Adds a protein boost and a sweet, buttery bite.
• Broccoli Slaw Kit: Brings bright green color and a satisfying crunch.
• Shallot: Thinly shaved for sharp, subtly sweet bite that complements the dressing.
• Green onions: Adds freshness and mild onion flavor.
• Cilantro: Offers a burst of herbal brightness that ties the salad together.
• Sweet chili sauce: Delivers the perfect balance of sweet heat in the dressing.
• Rice vinegar: Imparts a lovely tang to balance the sweetness.
• Soy sauce: Introduces savoriness and umami depth.
• Wonton strips: Provide extra crunch and a playful texture contrast on top.
• Diced almonds: Add nutty flavor and crunch.
• Sesame seeds: Sprinkle for an additional nutty crunch and aesthetic appeal.
• Lime wedge: A squeeze brightens and lifts all the flavors beautifully.

How to Make Dumpling Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Dumplings

Start by cooking your frozen dumplings or wontons according to the package instructions. For that irresistibly crispy exterior, I highly recommend pan-frying them for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side or popping them into the air fryer. This step is crucial because the crispy dumplings add a wonderful textural element to the salad, making every bite interesting and satisfying.

Step 2: Cook the Edamame and Prep the Veggies

While the dumplings are cooking, quickly steam or microwave the frozen edamame until tender and bright green. In a large mixing bowl, combine the broccoli slaw kit, cooked edamame, finely diced green onions, shaved shallot, and chopped cilantro. Toss everything gently but thoroughly to spread the flavors evenly.

Step 3: Whisk the Dressing

This dressing is sweet, tangy, and just a little spicy, perfectly complementing the fresh and crispy elements of the salad. In a glass measuring cup or small bowl, whisk together the sweet chili sauce, rice vinegar, soy sauce, and half a tablespoon of sesame oil. If the dressing seems too thick, add a tablespoon of water or vegetable broth to thin it out and make it easier to toss with the salad.

Step 4: Combine Salad and Dressing

Pour the flavorful dressing over your vegetable mixture and toss everything together gently. If you are planning to serve the dumplings later or want to keep them extra crisp, hold off on mixing them with the salad until just before serving. This way, the dumplings stay crunchy and don’t get soggy.

Step 5: Assemble and Garnish

Place the cooked dumplings on top of the dressed salad, then sprinkle wonton strips, diced almonds, and sesame seeds over the top. Finish with a fresh squeeze of lime juice for a bright pop of acidity that ties all the flavors together beautifully.

How to Serve Dumpling Salad

Garnishes

Adding garnishes like wonton strips, toasted sesame seeds, and diced almonds not only enhances the salad’s texture but also adds visual appeal that will make your Dumpling Salad irresistible. A fresh squeeze of lime just before serving adds brightness and balances the slightly sweet and savory dressing perfectly.

Side Dishes

This Dumpling Salad works wonderfully on its own for a lighter meal, but it can also be paired with steamed jasmine rice, simple miso soup, or even a refreshing cucumber salad to create a more complete and satisfying Asian-inspired feast.

Creative Ways to Present

For an eye-catching presentation, serve your Dumpling Salad in individual shallow bowls or on a large platter for sharing. Arrange the crispy dumplings strategically on top and garnish with herbs and nuts for bursts of color and structure. This makes it perfect for entertaining or impressing guests at your next gathering.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftover Dumpling Salad, store the salad and dumplings separately in airtight containers. This prevents the dumplings from getting soggy and preserves their crispiness. Keep the salad refrigerated for up to 2 days for the best freshness.

Freezing

The dumplings can be frozen before or after cooking, but once combined with the salad and dressing, freezing is not recommended as the textures will suffer. Freeze cooked dumplings in a single-layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag for up to a month.

Reheating

To reheat dumplings, use an air fryer or pan-fry them again for a couple of minutes to restore that delightful crunch. Avoid microwaving as this tends to make them rubbery or soggy. The salad itself is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature and should not be reheated.

FAQs

Can I use homemade dumplings instead of frozen ones?

Absolutely! Homemade dumplings work beautifully in this recipe and give you the chance to customize fillings. Just be sure to cook them until crisp for that essential texture contrast in the Dumpling Salad.

What can I substitute for the sweet chili sauce?

If you don’t have sweet chili sauce on hand, a mix of honey, chili flakes, and a bit of rice vinegar can mimic the sweet and spicy flavor. Alternatively, use a mild sriracha mixed with a touch of sugar and vinegar.

Is this salad gluten-free?

To make this Dumpling Salad gluten-free, choose gluten-free dumplings and tamari instead of soy sauce. Many grocery stores offer gluten-free wontons or potstickers that work well.

Can I make the dressing in advance?

Yes! The dressing can be whisked together a day or two before, stored in the fridge, and then added just before tossing your salad. This helps save time on busy days while still maintaining fresh flavors.

How do I keep the dumplings crispy in the salad?

The key is to add the dumplings to the salad right before serving. Keep the cooked dumplings separate and then place them on top of the dressed salad just before you dig in to preserve their delightful crunch.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a bright, textured, and flavorful meal that feels fresh yet filling, you have to give this Dumpling Salad a try. It’s one of those recipes that can quickly become a staple because it is so easy to make and so fun to eat. Whether you’re treating yourself to a light lunch or impressing friends with a vibrant appetizer, this salad is sure to delight your taste buds and your heart.

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