This colorful bean salad is a tasty mix of crunchy veggies and beans, all dressed in a light miso and sesame sauce. It’s refreshing and perfect for any meal!
I love how quick it is to make this salad. Just toss everything together, and you’ve got a yummy dish. Plus, it makes a great side for a picnic or barbecue! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Edamame: This ingredient adds protein and a unique flavor. If you can’t find edamame, frozen peas or chickpeas are great alternatives. They’ll give you texture and nutrition too!
White Beans: Cannellini or navy beans are best for creaminess. If you need a substitute, try chickpeas again, which add a nice bite. Black beans work, but they’ll change the color!
Cucumber: Fresh cucumber adds crunch and freshness. If you want to mix it up, you could use zucchini or bell pepper instead for similar textures.
Cilantro or Parsley: Cilantro gives zest, but if you’re not a fan, try parsley or even basil for a different flavor twist.
Miso Paste: White or yellow miso provides a mellow taste. If you’re avoiding soy, look for chickpea miso, which has a similar flavor profile.
How Do I Make the Dressing Creamy and Flavorful?
The dressing is key to this salad, lending it flavor and creaminess. Start with the miso paste and mix it well. If it feels too thick, add a bit more rice vinegar or sesame oil to get the right consistency. Let’s break it down:
- In a small bowl, whisk the miso, rice vinegar, sesame oil, soy sauce, and optional ingredients until smooth.
- If it’s too thick, adjust with a splash more vinegar or oil until creamy.
- Taste it! Add more honey or ginger if you want it sweeter or spicier, respectively.
Taking a moment to mix this well enhances the dressing’s flavor before you combine it with the salad. It’s worth the effort!
Easy Miso Sesame Bean Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 1 cup cooked or canned edamame (shelled)
- 1 cup cooked or canned white beans (e.g., cannellini or navy beans), drained and rinsed
- 1 small cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup chopped green bell pepper
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion or red cabbage (for crunch)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro or parsley
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
For the Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons white or yellow miso paste
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari (for gluten-free)
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional, for sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger (optional)
- 1 clove garlic, minced (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare, plus an additional 15 minutes to chill in the fridge. In just under 30 minutes, you’ve got a vibrant and tasty dish ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Salad Ingredients:
In a large bowl, start by mixing the shelled edamame, white beans, diced cucumber, chopped green bell pepper, and either red onion or red cabbage for that extra crunch. Then, fold in the fresh cilantro and green onions. This colorful mix is the base of your salad!
2. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the miso paste, rice vinegar, sesame oil, soy sauce, and, if you like, add honey or maple syrup for a bit of sweetness. For an extra kick, you can mix in the fresh ginger and minced garlic. Keep whisking until it’s smooth and well combined.
3. Dress the Salad:
Now, pour your delicious dressing over the bean and vegetable mixture. Toss everything together gently but thoroughly, ensuring the dressing coats all the ingredients evenly for the best flavor!
4. Add the Finishing Touches:
Sprinkle the toasted sesame seeds over the top of the salad and give it a final light toss to mix them in.
5. Chill and Serve:
Cover the salad and place it in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes. This chilling time allows the flavors to mingle and develop. Serve it cold as a refreshing side dish or a light main course. Enjoy your vibrant and tasty Miso Sesame Bean Salad!
With its crunchy veggies and umami-rich dressing, this salad is sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Edamame?
Absolutely! If you’re using frozen edamame, just make sure to thaw it first. You can do this by placing it in a bowl of cold water for a few minutes or microwaving it for a short time until warmed through. Draining and cooling it before adding to the salad works best!
How Long Does This Salad Last in the Fridge?
This salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors may intensify over time, making it even tastier! Just give it a good toss before serving if any ingredients have settled.
Can I Make this Salad Vegan-Friendly?
This salad is already vegan-friendly since it includes no animal products. Just ensure that any added sauces or versions you use (like soy sauce) are vegan as well.
What Other Vegetables Can I Add?
Feel free to get creative! You can add other crunchy veggies like carrots, bell peppers of different colors, sliced radishes, or even avocado for creaminess. Just adjust based on your taste preferences!
