If you’re looking for a refreshing and satisfying salad that doesn’t skimp on flavor, then this Macro Friendly Sesame Ginger Salad is just what you need. Packed with crunchy textures, vibrant colors, and a delightful sesame ginger dressing, this salad can easily become a staple in your meal rotation. With a mix of wholesome ingredients, it’s not only macro-friendly but also incredibly easy to whip up for lunch or dinner. So let’s dive into this delicious recipe that will leave your taste buds dancing!

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

This Macro Friendly Sesame Ginger Salad offers a multitude of benefits:

Quick & Easy: This recipe comes together in no time, making it perfect for busy weekdays.
Nutritious: Loaded with vegetables and healthy fats, it’s a wholesome option for any meal.
Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite proteins or swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of sesame, ginger, and fresh herbs creates a delightful burst of flavor in every bite.

What’s in the Bowl

To make this Macro Friendly Sesame Ginger Salad, you’ll need the following ingredients:

16 oz shredded cabbage and carrots (a bag of coleslaw works perfectly)
4 green onions, chopped
6 tablespoons toasted almonds
1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
½ cup chopped cilantro
15 oz sugar-free mandarin oranges, drained well (I used Del Monte)
9 sesame rice crackers, crushed (I used Simply Organic)
½ cup toasted sesame ginger dressing (I used Bolthouse)

Hardware & Gadgets

Before you start, make sure you have these handy:

Large Mixing Bowl: For combining all the ingredients.
Sharp Knife: To chop the green onions and cilantro finely.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
Serving Dish: To present your salad beautifully.

Cooking Macro Friendly Sesame Ginger Salad: The Process

Creating this salad is a breeze! Follow these steps to assemble your Macro Friendly Sesame Ginger Salad.

Step 1: Prepare the Base

In a large mixing bowl, add the 16 oz of shredded cabbage and carrots. If you’re using a bag of coleslaw, simply pour it in.

Step 2: Add the Fresh Ingredients

Chop the 4 green onions and add them to the bowl. Next, toss in the ½ cup of chopped cilantro for a fresh flavor boost.

Step 3: Introduce the Crunch

Sprinkle in the 6 tablespoons of toasted almonds and the 1 tablespoon of toasted sesame seeds. These will add a delightful crunch to your salad.

Step 4: Add the Sweetness

Gently fold in the 15 oz of drained sugar-free mandarin oranges. Their sweetness will beautifully complement the other flavors.

Step 5: Crush the Crackers

Take the 9 sesame rice crackers and crush them into small pieces. Add them to the mix for an extra layer of texture.

Step 6: Dress It Up

Pour in the ½ cup of toasted sesame ginger dressing. Gently toss everything together until all the ingredients are coated evenly.

Step 7: Serve & Enjoy

Transfer the salad to a serving dish. You can enjoy it immediately or let it sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Warm & Cool Weather Spins

This salad is versatile and can be enjoyed in different ways throughout the year:

Warm Weather: Serve it chilled as a refreshing side dish for barbecues or picnics.
Cool Weather: Add grilled chicken or tofu for a heartier meal when you need something more filling.
Meal Prep: Pack it for lunches during the week, as it holds up well in the fridge.

Problems & Prevention

While making this Macro Friendly Sesame Ginger Salad is straightforward, keep these tips in mind to avoid common pitfalls:

Too Watery: Make sure to drain the mandarin oranges thoroughly to prevent excess liquid.
Overdressing: Start with less dressing and add more as needed to suit your taste. You can always add more, but you can’t take it away!
Stale Nuts: If you’re using pre-packaged toasted almonds, check the expiration date to ensure freshness.

Keep It Fresh: Storage Guide

To keep your Macro Friendly Sesame Ginger Salad fresh for longer:

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best enjoyed within 2-3 days, as the dressing may make the vegetables soggy over time. If you plan to meal prep, consider keeping the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat.

Keep the salad base and dressing in separate containers.
When ready to serve, combine and toss to refresh the salad.

Reader Questions

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the salad base ahead of time. However, it’s best to add the dressing just before serving to keep the veggies crisp.

What can I substitute for the sesame dressing?

If you don’t have sesame dressing, a light vinaigrette or a homemade dressing with soy sauce, vinegar, and sesame oil can work well.

Can I add protein to this salad?

Absolutely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu would be excellent additions for a more filling meal.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Yes, this salad is great for meal prep! Just store the dressing separately to maintain freshness.

Cook This Next

If you enjoyed this Macro Friendly Sesame Ginger Salad, here are some other recipes you might love:

Wrap-Up

In conclusion, this Macro Friendly Sesame Ginger Salad is not only nutritious but also bursting with flavor and texture. It’s a perfect dish for any occasion, whether you’re looking for a light lunch, a side at dinner, or a meal prep option for the week. The combination of crunchy vegetables, sweet mandarin oranges, and a savory sesame ginger dressing makes it a delightful experience for your palate. Enjoy this salad on its own or pair it with your favorite protein for a complete meal. Happy cooking!