10 Deliciously Clean Asian Salads
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The humble salad, often overlooked as a mere side dish, but in reality a culinary superstar waiting to be unleashed. And when it comes to Asian-inspired salads, the possibilities are endless, with a fusion of bold flavors, vibrant colors, and textures that will leave your taste buds doing the happy dance. From the spicy kick of Korean chili flakes to the subtle sweetness of pickled ginger, the versatility of Asian ingredients is a match made in heaven for clean eating fans.
In this article, we’ll share clean Asian salads, sharing innovative ideas and recipes that will inspire you to rethink the humble salad and elevate it to a main-course-worthy status.
Taylor Farms Asian Chopped Salad Kit 13oz
$4.57 ($5.62 / lb) (as of November 9, 2025 04:10 GMT -05:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)Thai Green Papaya Salad
Thai Green Papaya Salad, known as Som Tum, is a refreshing and tangy dish that combines shredded unripe papaya with a medley of vibrant ingredients. This salad bursts with flavors from lime juice, fish sauce, and chili, making it a perfect balance of spicy, sour, and slightly sweet. It’s not only a delicious addition to any meal but also a light and healthy option for clean eating enthusiasts.
1. Peel and shred 2 cups of green papaya using a grater or food processor. 2. In a large bowl, combine the shredded papaya, 1 cup of shredded carrots, and a handful of cherry tomatoes cut in half. 3. In a separate bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons of lime juice, 2 tablespoons of fish sauce, and 1 tablespoon of palm sugar until well combined. 4. Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently to combine. 5. Crush 1-2 bird’s eye chilies in a mortar and pestle or use a knife to chop, then add to the salad for heat. 6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped peanuts and fresh cilantro if desired.
Korean Cucumber Salad
Korean Cucumber Salad, known as ‘Oi Muchim’, is a refreshing side dish that perfectly balances the crispness of cucumbers with a spicy, tangy dressing. This salad is often served in Korean meals, adding brightness and crunch alongside heavier dishes. Packed with flavor, it’s an excellent choice for anyone looking to enjoy clean, healthy eating without sacrificing taste.
1. Start by washing and slicing 2 cucumbers into thin rounds or half-moons. 2. Sprinkle the sliced cucumbers with 1 teaspoon of salt and let them sit for about 10 minutes to release excess water. 3. In a mixing bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of gochugaru (Korean red pepper flakes), 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar, 1 teaspoon of sesame oil, and 1 teaspoon of sugar. 4. Once the cucumbers have released their water, rinse and drain them, then add them to the mixing bowl with the dressing. 5. Toss everything together until the cucumbers are well coated. 6. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds before serving.
Vietnamese Nem Nuong Salad
Nem Nuong Salad is a refreshing Vietnamese dish that combines the vibrant flavors of fresh herbs, crispy vegetables, and savory grilled pork. This salad is typically topped with a zesty dressing made from fish sauce, lime juice, and a hint of sugar, making every bite an explosion of taste. Perfect for a light meal, Nem Nuong Salad is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it an ideal choice for clean eating enthusiasts.
1. Start by preparing the pork for nem nuong by mixing ground pork with minced garlic, shallots, fish sauce, sugar, and pepper. Shape the mixture onto skewers and grill them until cooked through and slightly charred. 2. For the salad, chop a variety of fresh vegetables such as lettuce, cucumber, and carrots, and place them in a large bowl. 3. Add a generous amount of fresh herbs such as cilantro and mint to the salad bowl. 4. Once the pork skewers are cooked, remove them from the grill and let them cool slightly before slicing them into bite-sized pieces. 5. To make the dressing, whisk together fish sauce, lime juice, sugar, and a little water to balance the flavors. 6. Toss the salad ingredients with the dressing, then top with the grilled pork pieces and serve immediately.
Japanese Seaweed Salad
Japanese Seaweed Salad is a light and flavorful dish that showcases the unique textures and tastes of various seaweeds. Typically dressed with a mix of sesame oil, soy sauce, and rice vinegar, this salad is both refreshing and nutritious. Perfect as a side dish or a light main course, it’s packed with vitamins and minerals that support a clean eating lifestyle.
1. Rinse about 1 cup of dried seaweed (such as wakame) under cold water to remove any excess salt. 2. Soak the seaweed in warm water for 5-10 minutes until it rehydrates and expands, then drain and set aside. 3. In a bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons of sesame oil, 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, and 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar. 4. Toss the rehydrated seaweed with the dressing, adding in sliced cucumber and shredded carrots for added crunch. 5. Garnish with sesame seeds and serve chilled or at room temperature.
Chinese Cabbage and Carrot Salad
Chinese Cabbage and Carrot Salad is a vibrant and crunchy dish that refreshes your palate while providing a burst of nutrients. This salad combines the crisp textures of Chinese cabbage with the sweetness of carrots, making it a perfect side for any Asian-inspired meal. Toss in a tangy dressing, and you have a delightful dish that promotes clean eating and health.
1. Begin by thinly slicing 4 cups of Chinese cabbage and 1 large carrot into julienne strips. 2. In a large bowl, combine the cabbage and carrot. 3. In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of rice vinegar, 1 tablespoon of sesame oil, 1 teaspoon of soy sauce, and a pinch of salt and pepper. 4. Pour the dressing over the cabbage and carrot and toss well to coat evenly. 5. Let the salad sit for at least 10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. 6. Garnish with sesame seeds or chopped green onions if desired.
Malaysian Mango Salad
Malaysian Mango Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that showcases the perfect balance of sweet, sour, and spicy flavors. This salad combines ripe, juicy mangoes with crisp vegetables, fresh herbs, and a tangy dressing, making it a nutritious choice for any clean eating meal. Served chilled, it is an ideal side dish for summer gatherings or a light lunch on its own.
1. Begin by peeling and slicing 2 ripe mangoes into thin strips. 2. Chop 1 cucumber, 1 red bell pepper, and a handful of fresh cilantro. 3. In a large bowl, combine the mango, cucumber, bell pepper, and cilantro. 4. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the juice of 2 limes, 1 tablespoon of fish sauce, and a teaspoon of chili flakes to create the dressing. 5. Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine. 6. Let the salad sit for at least 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. 7. Serve chilled, garnished with extra cilantro if desired.
Indian Chickpea Salad
Indian Chickpea Salad is a refreshing and nutritious dish that combines wholesome chickpeas with vibrant fresh vegetables and aromatic spices. This salad is not only rich in protein but also bursting with flavor, making it an excellent choice for a healthy meal. Perfect as a side or a light main dish, it offers a delightful balance of textures and tastes that will energize your day.
1. Begin by rinsing and draining 2 cans of chickpeas. Place them in a large mixing bowl. 2. Chop 1 cucumber, 1 bell pepper, and 1 small red onion finely, then add to the chickpeas. 3. Scatter a handful of chopped fresh cilantro and a pinch of salt over the mixture. 4. In a small bowl, whisk together the juice of 2 limes, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, and 1 teaspoon of cumin. 5. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss everything together until well combined. 6. Let the salad marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving for the best flavor.
Filipino Ensaladang Mangga
Ensaladang Mangga, a traditional Filipino salad, combines the tangy flavor of unripe mangoes with the refreshing crunch of onions and tomatoes. This vibrant dish is not only a delight to the taste buds but also packed with nutritional benefits, making it a perfect addition to any clean eating meal plan. Serve it chilled as a side dish or as a topping for grilled meats to enhance their flavors.
1. Start by peeling and slicing 2 green mangoes into thin strips. 2. Dice 1 medium-sized red onion and chop 2 medium tomatoes. 3. In a mixing bowl, combine the mango strips, diced onion, and chopped tomatoes. 4. Add 2 tablespoons of fish sauce or soy sauce for flavor, and a squeeze of lime juice for acidity. 5. Toss everything together gently until well mixed. 6. Allow the salad to chill in the refrigerator for at least 10 minutes before serving. 7. Enjoy as a refreshing side or topping for your favorite dishes.
Katsu Salad with Sesame Dressing
Katsu Salad with Sesame Dressing is a vibrant and nutritious dish that combines crisp greens, fresh vegetables, and tender chicken cutlets. The salad is topped with a creamy sesame dressing that adds a delightful nutty flavor, making it a satisfying meal option. Perfect as a light lunch or refreshing dinner, this salad captures the essence of clean eating while delivering a delicious taste experience.
1. Start by preparing the chicken cutlets: pound them to an even thickness, season with salt and pepper, and coat them in panko breadcrumbs. 2. Heat oil in a pan and fry the chicken until golden and cooked through, then slice into strips. 3. In a bowl, combine your choice of fresh greens, sliced cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and shredded carrots. 4. For the sesame dressing, whisk together tahini, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, and sesame oil. 5. Toss the salad with the dressing, top with the sliced chicken, and sprinkle with sesame seeds before serving.
Szechuan Spicy Bean Sprout Salad
Szechuan Spicy Bean Sprout Salad is a refreshing and vibrant dish that showcases the crunchy texture of bean sprouts paired with bold Szechuan flavors. This salad is not only a quick and easy option for clean eating but also packed with nutrients, making it a perfect side dish or a light meal. The combination of spices and sesame oil gives it a unique kick that is sure to tantalize your taste buds.
1. Begin by rinsing and draining 2 cups of fresh bean sprouts. 2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar, 1 tablespoon of sesame oil, and 1 teaspoon of chili oil for the dressing. 3. Add the drained bean sprouts to the bowl, along with 1 tablespoon of finely chopped green onions and 1 tablespoon of toasted sesame seeds. 4. Toss everything together gently until the bean sprouts are evenly coated with the dressing. 5. Let the salad sit for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld, then serve chilled or at room temperature.
