Asian Bean Salad (Crunchy, Colorful & Full of Flavor)

You can’t help but feel invigorated when you take a bite of this colorful, crunchy Asian Bean Salad. Packed with wholesome ingredients like cashews, edamame, and vibrant veggies, this dish brings together a delightful mix of flavors and textures that are sure to awaken your taste buds. Whether you’re looking for a refreshing side or a light meal on its own, this salad embodies the essence of healthy eating with a delicious twist.

What is Asian Bean Salad?

Asian Bean Salad is a delightful fusion dish that embodies the spirit of Asian cuisine through its vibrant colors and deliciously balanced flavors. Originating from various regions in Asia that embrace beans as a staple food, this salad is not only nutritious but also wonderfully satisfying. The combination of crunchy ingredients like shredded carrots and spring onions with the nuttiness of cashews creates a delightful contrast that surprises with every bite. The dressing, made with umami-rich miso and zesty lime juice, pulls all the flavors together for an explosion of taste, making this salad a favorite for anyone who tries it.

Why You’ll Love This

One of the best things about this Asian Bean Salad is how incredibly easy it is to whip up! With just a handful of ingredients and minimal cooking involved, you can have a wholesome dish ready in no time. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something healthy but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen.

Not only is it quick to prepare, but it’s also super affordable. Most of the ingredients are pantry staples or easily found at your local grocery store. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to incorporate more beans and veggies into your diet while treating your taste buds to something truly scrumptious. Trust me; you’ll find yourself coming back to this vibrant and satisfying salad again and again.

How to Make

Quick Overview

Making this Asian Bean Salad is a breeze! You’ll need a frying pan and a large mixing bowl. In just under 20 minutes, you can create a delicious and nutritious salad that’s perfect for meal prep or an easy dinner alongside your favorite protein.

Ingredients

. 40g cashews, roughly chopped
. 2 tsp sesame oil
. 1 tbsp miso paste (gluten-free if required)
. 1 tbsp tamari
. 1 tbsp agave syrup (or maple syrup or honey if not vegan)
. 1 tsp grated root ginger
. ½ red chili, deseeded and finely chopped
. Juice of 1 lime (or 1.5 tbsp rice vinegar)
. 150g frozen edamame beans (or frozen peas)
. 1 x 400g tin aduki beans (or kidney beans)
. 1 large carrot, shredded or coarsely grated
. 4 spring onions, sliced
. 3 x half-sheets of nori seaweed, cut into strips (optional)

Instructions

1. Toast the cashews in ½ tsp of sesame oil in a small frying pan over medium heat until golden. Once done, sprinkle them with a little salt to enhance the flavor.
2. In a large bowl, combine the miso paste, tamari, agave syrup, grated ginger, chopped chili, and lime juice with 1.5 tsp of sesame oil to create a zesty dressing.
3. Boil the edamame beans in salted water for about 3 minutes until tender. Drain the aduki beans in a colander and rinse them under cold water. While the beans are still in the colander, strain the edamame beans, allowing the hot cooking water to slightly warm the aduki beans.
4. Add the warm beans to the dressing to help absorb the flavors. Then mix in the shredded carrot, sliced spring onions, and nori seaweed strips if you’re using them.
5. Finally, scatter the toasted cashews on top and serve your beautiful Asian Bean Salad!

What to Serve with Asian Bean Salad

This vibrant Asian Bean Salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, fish, or tofu for a heartier meal. You can also serve it alongside some crispy spring rolls or a light miso soup for a refreshing Asian-inspired feast. The crunchy texture and refreshing flavors make this salad an excellent side dish for just about any protein or as part of a picnic spread. Enjoy it as a solo dish, or let this bean salad shine on your table alongside various Asian-inspired dishes.

Top Tips for Perfecting Asian Bean Salad

1. Adjust the Dressing: Feel free to tweak the dressing ingredients according to your taste. More lime can add brightness, while additional miso can enhance umami flavors.
2. Experiment with Beans: If you don’t have aduki beans, kidney beans work just as well. Try black beans or chickpeas for a different spin.
3. Garnish Wisely: Fresh herbs like cilantro or mint can elevate the flavor profile. Sprinkle them on top before serving.
4. Serve Cold or Warm: This salad can be enjoyed at room temperature or chilled; letting it sit for a bit allows the flavors to meld even more.
5. Hosting Friendly: This dish makes an excellent crowd-pleaser. Double the recipe for your next gathering and watch it disappear!
6. Nut-Free Option: If you’re allergic to nuts, skip the cashews and add extra seeds like sunflower seeds instead for crunch.
7. Prep in Advance: You can prepare the dressing and chop your veggies ahead of time to make assembly a breeze when you’re ready to eat.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Leftover Asian Bean Salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, so there’s no need for reheating. If you want to freeze the salad, consider leaving out any fresh ingredients like spring onions or nori, as they don’t freeze well. Simply mix the frozen portion with fresh veggies before serving to maintain that lovely crunch.

FAQs

Asian Bean Salad

A colorful, crunchy salad packed with wholesome ingredients like cashews and edamame, dressed with a zesty miso and lime dressing.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 20 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Salad, Side Dish

Cuisine: Asian, Healthy

Calories: 250

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

For the Dressing

• 2 tsp sesame oil for toasting cashews
• 1 tbsp miso paste gluten-free if required
• 1 tbsp tamari
• 1 tbsp agave syrup or maple syrup or honey if not vegan
• 1 tsp grated root ginger
• ½ piece red chili deseeded and finely chopped
• 1 piece lime or 1.5 tbsp rice vinegar for juice

Main Ingredients

• 40 g cashews roughly chopped
• 150 g frozen edamame beans or frozen peas
• 1 tin (400g) aduki beans or kidney beans
• 1 large carrot shredded or coarsely grated
• 4 pieces spring onions sliced
• 3 half-sheets nori seaweed cut into strips (optional)

Method

 

Preparation

1. Toast the cashews in ½ tsp of sesame oil in a small frying pan over medium heat until golden. Sprinkle them with a little salt to enhance the flavor.
2. In a large bowl, combine the miso paste, tamari, agave syrup, grated ginger, chopped chili, and lime juice with 1.5 tsp of sesame oil to create a zesty dressing.
3. Boil the edamame beans in salted water for about 3 minutes until tender. Drain the aduki beans in a colander and rinse them under cold water.
4. Add the warm beans to the dressing to help absorb the flavors, then mix in the shredded carrot, sliced spring onions, and nori strips if you’re using them.
5. Finally, scatter the toasted cashews on top and serve your beautiful Asian Bean Salad!

Notes

This salad can be served cold or warm. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s great for meal prep, just keep the dressing separate until ready to serve for optimal freshness.

This Asian Bean Salad is a must-try for anyone looking to add some vibrant, wholesome goodness to their meals. With its unique blend of flavors and easy preparation, it’s perfect for both quick lunches and festive dinners alike. So gather your ingredients and give this wholesome dish a try—you won’t regret it! Prepare to enjoy a delightful and healthy dish that’s as fun to make as it is to eat!

More Resources

• Ridiculously Easy Bean Salad
• 3-Bean Salad
• Mediterranean Dense Bean Salad
• Miso Sesame Dense Bean Salad
• The Ultimate Guide to Bean Salad: 15+ Healthy, Flavorful Recipes
• Asian Cuisine – Wikipedia
• Soy Sauce Nutrition Facts – USDA FoodData Central
• Health Benefits of Beans and Legumes – MedlinePlus