Name: Crisp Edamame Salad with Ginger Garlic Dressing and Avocado Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Asian-inspired
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups shelled edamame, fresh or frozen – 225g; 1 ½ cups diced cucumber – 200g; 1 cup thinly sliced red cabbage – 70g; 1 cup cooked white beans, cannellini or navy beans, rinsed and drained – 165g; ½ cup thinly sliced green onions – 50g; ½ cup chopped fresh cilantro – 20g; ¼ cup chopped roasted unsalted cashews – 30g; 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds – 9g; 1 large ripe avocado, diced – about 200g; 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce – 30mL; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar – 15mL; 1 tablespoon lime juice – 15mL; 1 tablespoon maple syrup – 20g; 2 teaspoons sesame oil – 10mL; 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger – 5g; 2 cloves garlic, minced – 6g; ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes – 1g

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 12 reviews

If you’re craving a salad that bursts with fresh flavors and vibrant textures, you absolutely have to try this Crisp Edamame Salad with Ginger Garlic Dressing and Avocado Recipe. It’s a celebration of crisp veggies, creamy avocado, and protein-packed edamame tossed in a zingy, Asian-inspired dressing that’s both bright and comforting. This salad manages to feel light yet utterly satisfying, making it perfect for lunch, a side dish, or even a healthy snack. Trust me, once you combine those crunchy, nutty edamame with the punchy ginger garlic dressing and buttery avocado, you’ll be hooked.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A light brown speckled bowl on a wooden board holds a dark reddish-brown sauce with visible small red and dark bits, stirred by a small metal whisk with a wooden handle resting inside. Above the bowl on the board is a fresh green lime half, some green chopped onion pieces, a few whole cashew nuts, and green cilantro leaves. To the left on the white marbled surface, there are two white bowls, one filled with green edamame beans and the other with chopped green onions. Another white bowl at the bottom contains a mix of green edamame beans and whole cashews. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Each ingredient in this Crisp Edamame Salad with Ginger Garlic Dressing and Avocado Recipe plays a crucial role, from adding crunch and creaminess to delivering that perfect balance of zest. You won’t need any hard-to-find items—just fresh, wholesome basics that come together effortlessly to create something truly special.

1 ½ cups shelled edamame, fresh or frozen: A fantastic source of plant-based protein with a satisfying snap that forms the salad’s heart.
1 ½ cups diced cucumber: Brings refreshing coolness and crunch that brightens each bite.
1 cup thinly sliced red cabbage: Adds beautiful color and a slightly peppery crunch for texture contrast.
1 cup cooked white beans (cannellini or navy, rinsed and drained): Creamy, mild beans that complement the edamame and bulk up the salad.
½ cup thinly sliced green onions: Offers a subtle pungent sweetness that livens up the mix.
½ cup chopped fresh cilantro: Infuses herby brightness and vibrant green hues.
¼ cup chopped roasted unsalted cashews: Adds buttery crunch and a nutty depth.
1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds: Tiny bursts of toasty flavor and texture that tie the Asian-inspired salad together.
1 large ripe avocado, diced: Creamy, dreamy, and perfectly mellow, bringing lusciousness to every bite.
2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce: The salty backbone of the dressing that balances all other flavors.
1 tablespoon rice vinegar: Adds a gentle tartness that keeps the dressing light and bright.
1 tablespoon lime juice: Fresh lime juice cuts through the richness with a zesty punch.
1 tablespoon maple syrup: A natural sweetener that rounds out the tangy and savory notes beautifully.
2 teaspoons sesame oil: Gives the dressing that unmistakable warm, nutty aroma.
1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger: Brings vibrant spice and warmth.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds pungent depth that infuses the dressing with savory goodness.
½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes: For a subtle heat that wakes up your taste buds without overpowering.

How to Make Crisp Edamame Salad with Ginger Garlic Dressing and Avocado Recipe

Step 1: Prepare and Cook Edamame

If you’re working with frozen edamame, start by bringing a pot of water to a boil. Add the shelled edamame and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until tender but still delightfully crisp. Immediately drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and chill them. This step is crucial because the edamame’s texture anchors the salad’s satisfying crunch.

Step 2: Combine the Salad Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, toss together your cooled edamame, diced cucumber, thinly sliced red cabbage, cooked white beans, green onions, fresh cilantro, chopped roasted cashews, and toasted sesame seeds. Each of these adds its own texture and flavor, building layers of interest in every forkful.

Step 3: Whisk the Ginger Garlic Dressing

In a small bowl or jar, mix the low-sodium soy sauce, rice vinegar, lime juice, maple syrup, sesame oil, freshly grated ginger, minced garlic, and crushed red pepper flakes. Whisk or shake until the ingredients meld into a smooth, fragrant dressing. This blend of savory, sweet, tangy, and spicy notes is what truly makes the Crisp Edamame Salad with Ginger Garlic Dressing and Avocado Recipe pop.

Step 4: Dress and Toss the Salad

Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and gently toss everything to coat evenly without mashing the vegetables. The magic is in balancing the coating so everything is well-flavored yet retains its crispness.

Step 5: Fold in the Avocado

Lastly, carefully fold in the diced avocado. Take your time here to avoid turning the avocado into mush. You want to preserve those creamy chunks that contrast beautifully against the crunchy veggies and nuts.

Step 6: Serve Immediately or Chill

For the ultimate crunch, dig in right away. However, if you prefer the flavors to mingle a bit more, refrigerate for 15 to 30 minutes. Either way, this Crisp Edamame Salad with Ginger Garlic Dressing and Avocado Recipe will brighten your table and your taste buds.

How to Serve Crisp Edamame Salad with Ginger Garlic Dressing and Avocado Recipe

A bowl of fresh salad sits at the center on a white marbled surface, filled with three main layers: the bottom layer is light green diced cucumber pieces, the middle layer has bright green edamame beans and white beans scattered throughout, and the top layer includes thin strips of purple cabbage and small chopped green herbs sprinkled evenly. Cashew nuts are spread on top, adding a light beige color and chunky texture. On the white marbled surface around the bowl, there is a half lime, green cilantro leaves, and some extra edamame beans in a white bowl. Two silver spoons rest on a white cloth with thin black stripes near the bottom right. The scene is bright with natural light and a clean, fresh look. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To elevate your salad’s presentation and flavor, sprinkle some extra toasted sesame seeds or a few whole roasted cashews on top just before serving. Fresh lime wedges on the side add a lovely zing if someone wants to add an extra citrus kick. For a pop of color, tiny slivers of red chili or additional cilantro leaves work wonders.

Side Dishes

This Crisp Edamame Salad with Ginger Garlic Dressing and Avocado Recipe pairs beautifully with grilled proteins like chicken, salmon, or tofu. It also complements Asian-inspired mains such as teriyaki bowls or steamed dumplings. If you’re serving it at a picnic or potluck, it works wonderfully alongside crusty bread or jasmine rice to complete the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the salad spooned into small lettuce cups or crispy wonton cups as an appetizer. Another impressive way is layering it in a clear glass jar as a vibrant, grab-and-go salad option. You can also sprinkle some crunchy fried shallots on top just before serving for an added texture surprise.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can store leftover Crisp Edamame Salad with Ginger Garlic Dressing and Avocado Recipe in the fridge in an airtight container for up to two days. To keep the avocado from browning, it’s best to either store it separately or add a squeeze of lime juice before sealing. Give the salad a gentle toss before serving again to redistribute the dressing.

Freezing

This salad isn’t suitable for freezing due to the creamy avocado and crunchy fresh vegetables, which can become mushy or watery upon thawing. For best results, enjoy it fresh or within a couple of days refrigerated.

Reheating

This Crisp Edamame Salad with Ginger Garlic Dressing and Avocado Recipe is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature. If you do want it slightly warmed, remove the avocado first, gently heat the salad for a few seconds, and then fold the avocado back in after reheating to preserve its texture.

FAQs

Can I use frozen edamame directly without cooking?

It’s best to cook frozen edamame briefly before using to ensure they are tender and easy to bite while maintaining their delightful crispness. Using them raw or frozen would result in a chewy texture that doesn’t quite suit the salad.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep lunches?

Absolutely! It stores well for a day or two with just a little care around the avocado. If packing ahead, keep the dressing separate until ready to eat for maximum freshness and crunch.

Can I substitute other nuts for cashews?

Yes, toasted almonds or pecans can be good alternatives, though cashews offer a uniquely creamy crunch that complements the avocado beautifully. Just make sure they are unsalted to avoid overpowering the flavors.

What can I use as a soy sauce alternative?

If you’re avoiding soy, tamari or coconut aminos make great gluten-free and lower-sodium substitutions that maintain the umami flavor in the dressing.

Can I add protein to make it a main dish?

Definitely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu pair wonderfully with this salad to boost protein and turn it into a filling, balanced meal perfect for lunch or dinner.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Crisp Edamame Salad with Ginger Garlic Dressing and Avocado Recipe enough if you want a fresh, flavorful, and satisfying dish that’s quick and easy to throw together. The beautiful mix of crisp veggies, creamy avocado, and that bright, savory dressing makes it such a standout. Give it a try soon—you’ll find it’s one of those recipes that becomes a staple in your kitchen for effortless, healthy meals.