Description
This Cucumber Edamame Rice Salad is made using flavorful and fresh ingredients. It’s filled with veggies and plant-based protein, making it a great light-lunch option that’s also perfect as a side dish. Inspired by Asian flavors, this salad offers a satisfying balance of crunch, creaminess, and savory richness.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup rice (uncooked)
- 1/2 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
- 1/2 tablespoon soy sauce (or tamari)
- 1 cup diced cucumber
- 1 cup cooked and shelled edamame (ready to eat)
- 1 large avocado (pitted, peeled, and diced)
- 1/3 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/3 cup thinly sliced green onion
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds (or more if desired)
- 1-2 tablespoons chili crisp (drain most of the oil, using only the crunchy part)
- For dressing: 1/4 cup neutral-flavored oil (e.g., safflower oil)
- 1/4 cup rice wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon tamari or soy sauce
- 2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon pure maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon chili onion crunch (or chili paste)
- 1 clove garlic (minced)
- 1/2 teaspoon grated ginger
- Salt (to taste)
Instructions
- Cook your rice according to package directions. Let it sit for 10 minutes with the lid on, then fluff with a fork.
- In a small bowl, combine all dressing ingredients and whisk until fully combined. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, add the cooled rice and drizzle with sesame oil and soy sauce. Mix well.
- Add the diced cucumber, edamame, avocado, cilantro, green onions, chili crisp, and toasted sesame seeds to the rice. Toss to combine.
- Slowly pour the dressing over the salad, mixing as you go. Adjust the amount of dressing to taste.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. The salad can be served warm or chilled.
Notes
- Make the salad ahead of time but avoid adding the avocado until just before serving to prevent browning.
- You can use quinoa, farro, or cauliflower rice instead of white rice for a different base.
- If you like spice, add extra chili crisp or sriracha to the dressing.
- This recipe can be stored in the fridge for 3-4 days, making it great for meal prep.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins
- Category: Lunch, Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian-inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 0mg