Crispy Rice Salad with Sesame Ginger Dressing: A Fresh, Flavorful Vegan Delight

Crispy Rice Salad with Sesame Ginger Dressing: A Fresh, Flavorful Vegan Delight

Got leftover rice? Transform it into this vibrant Crispy Rice Salad that’s bursting with crunch, flavor, and feel-good vibes! This vegan, nutrient-packed dish combines golden, crispy rice with fresh veggies, creamy avocado, and a dreamy sesame ginger dressing that ties it all together. Ready in about 30 minutes and perfect for 2–3 servings, it’s an easy, delicious way to elevate your leftovers into a show-stopping meal. Let’s dive into this crunchy, flavorful salad!

Why You’ll Love This Crispy Rice Salad

• Transforms leftovers: Turn plain rice into a crispy, golden star of the dish.

• Bold and fresh: A mix of crunchy veggies, fragrant herbs, and a creamy, zesty dressing.

• Vegan and wholesome: Packed with plant-based goodness and vibrant flavors.

• Quick and easy: Minimal prep and cooking time for a satisfying meal or side.

• Customizable: Swap in your favorite veggies or herbs to make it your own.

Ingredients You’ll Need (Serves 2–3)

For the Crispy Rice

• 2 cups cooked rice (leftover or cooled; white, brown, or jasmine work great)

• 1 tbsp soy sauce or tamari (use tamari for gluten-free)

• 2–3 tsp chili oil or sesame oil (chili oil for a spicy kick, sesame for milder flavor)

For the Salad

• 200g boiled edamame (optionally roasted for extra crunch)

• 1 cup chopped coriander (cilantro)

• ½ cup chopped mint

• 1 medium cucumber, sliced

• 1 ripe avocado, sliced

• ⅓ red onion, thinly sliced

• 2 spring onion stalks, sliced

For the Sesame Ginger Dressing

• 3 tbsp hulled tahini

• 2 tbsp tamari or soy sauce

• Juice of 1 lime

• 1.5 tbsp maple syrup

• 1 garlic clove, minced

• 1 tsp minced ginger

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Make the crispy rice: Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F) and line a baking tray with parchment paper. Spread the cooked rice evenly on the tray. Drizzle with soy sauce (or tamari) and chili oil or sesame oil, then toss to coat. Bake for 20–30 minutes, stirring halfway, until the rice is golden and crispy. Let it cool slightly, then break apart any clumps with your hands or a spoon.

2. Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the tahini, tamari or soy sauce, lime juice, maple syrup, minced garlic, and minced ginger until smooth and creamy. Add a splash of water if you prefer a thinner consistency.

3. Assemble the salad: In a large bowl, combine the boiled edamame, chopped coriander, chopped mint, sliced cucumber, avocado, red onion, and spring onions. If you want extra crunch, roast the edamame at 200°C for 15–20 minutes before adding.

4. Bring it together: Drizzle the sesame ginger dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine. Top with the crispy rice just before serving to maintain its crunch.

5. Serve and enjoy: Divide into bowls and dig in! This salad is perfect as a light meal or a side dish.

Tips for the Perfect Salad

• Rice tip: Use day-old or cooled rice for the best crispy texture. Freshly cooked rice can be too moist.

• Edamame crunch: For extra texture, toss the edamame with a little oil and roast at 200°C for 15–20 minutes before adding to the salad.

• Dressing tweak: Adjust the lime juice or maple syrup to balance the tanginess and sweetness to your taste.

• Storage: Store the crispy rice, salad components, and dressing separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Assemble just before serving to keep the rice crunchy.

• Customize it: Add shredded carrots, bell peppers, or chopped peanuts for extra color and crunch.

Why This Salad is a Must-Try

This Crispy Rice Salad with Sesame Ginger Dressing is a game-changer for leftover rice, turning it into a vibrant, flavorful meal that’s as satisfying as it is fresh. The crispy rice adds an irresistible crunch, while the sesame ginger dressing brings creamy, zesty goodness that ties everything together. Vegan, quick, and packed with nutrients, it’s perfect for a light lunch, dinner, or meal prep. Plus, it’s a fun way to enjoy a mix of textures and bold flavors in every bite!So, raid your fridge for that leftover rice and let’s make this salad magic happen! What’s your favorite way to use up leftover rice? Share your thoughts and any fun twists on Pinterest and check out the Ultimate Plant-Based Cookbook below!