Description
This Enoki Mushroom Salad is a light, refreshing, and flavorful Asian-inspired dish perfect for lunch, dinner, or as a healthy appetizer. Featuring tender enoki mushrooms tossed with a sesame-soy dressing, fresh cucumbers, and aromatic herbs, this salad is vegan, gluten-free, and quick to prepare. It’s crunchy, savory, and slightly nutty, making it a perfect side dish or a healthy snack packed with nutrients and flavor.
Ingredients
For the Salad:
200g / 7 oz enoki mushrooms, trimmed
1 small cucumber, thinly sliced
1 small carrot, julienned
1 green onion, sliced
1 tbsp fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (optional)
For the Dressing:
2 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
1 tbsp rice vinegar
1 tsp sesame oil
1 tsp sugar or honey
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tsp toasted sesame seeds
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the Enoki Mushrooms
Trim the root ends of the enoki mushrooms and separate them gently. Rinse briefly under cold water and drain thoroughly. - Step 2: Blanch the Mushrooms (Optional)
Bring a small pot of water to a boil. Blanch the enoki mushrooms for 30–60 seconds until slightly tender, then drain and immediately transfer to an ice bath to stop cooking. Drain well. - Step 3: Prepare the Vegetables
Thinly slice the cucumber and julienne the carrot. Slice the green onion and chop cilantro or parsley if using. - Step 4: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, sugar, and minced garlic until combined. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. - Step 5: Assemble the Salad
In a large mixing bowl, combine enoki mushrooms, cucumber, carrot, and green onion. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and garnish with fresh herbs. - Step 6: Serve
Serve immediately as a refreshing side dish or chilled for 15–20 minutes to enhance flavors.
Notes
- Add Heat: Include sliced fresh chili or a pinch of chili flakes.
- Nutty Flavor: Toast extra sesame seeds or add crushed peanuts.
- Extra Veggies: Add bell peppers, radish, or leafy greens for more crunch and color.
- Protein Boost: Include tofu, tempeh, or edamame to make it a full meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes (if blanching)
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: Asian