Seaweed Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Seaweed Salad is a refreshing and savory dish that’s both light and packed with umami flavor. Often served in Japanese cuisine, this salad combines seaweed’s unique texture with a tangy-sweet sesame dressing. It’s not only delicious but also rich in minerals, making it a healthy and flavorful appetizer or side.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

dried wakame seaweed
rice vinegar
soy sauce
toasted sesame oil
sugar
salt
red pepper flakes (optional)
toasted sesame seeds
thinly sliced cucumber (optional)
scallions, finely chopped

directions

Soak the dried wakame seaweed in warm water for about 10 minutes until it rehydrates and expands.

Drain and squeeze out the excess water. Chop into bite-sized pieces if needed.

In a bowl, whisk together rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar, and a pinch of salt until the sugar dissolves.

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a spicy kick.

Toss the seaweed with the dressing until evenly coated.

Add cucumber slices and scallions if using, and mix gently.

Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds before serving.

Chill in the fridge for 15-20 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 2-4 servings.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Soaking and chilling time: 25-30 minutes
Total time: 35-40 minutes

Variations

Use a mix of different seaweeds like hijiki or arame for varied textures.
Add shredded carrots or radishes for color and crunch.
Include a splash of lemon juice or yuzu for a citrus twist.
Top with crispy shallots or crushed peanuts for extra texture.

storage/reheating

Store Seaweed Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Do not freeze, as the texture of the seaweed may become unpleasant.
Serve chilled or at room temperature—no reheating needed.

FAQs

What kind of seaweed is used in seaweed salad?
Wakame is the most common variety used due to its tender texture and mild flavor.

Can I use fresh seaweed instead of dried?
Yes, but dried wakame is easier to store and commonly used in recipes.

Is seaweed salad healthy?
Yes, it’s low in calories and rich in iodine, calcium, magnesium, and other essential nutrients.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! It actually tastes better after the flavors have had time to blend in the fridge.

Is this recipe vegan?
Yes, it’s fully plant-based.

Can I add protein to this salad?
Yes, try adding tofu, edamame, or even sliced grilled shrimp or octopus.

How do I prevent the salad from being too soggy?
Be sure to squeeze out excess water from the rehydrated seaweed before dressing.

Can I adjust the sweetness?
Yes, feel free to reduce or increase the sugar to match your taste.

What can I serve with seaweed salad?
It pairs well with sushi, rice bowls, grilled fish, or miso soup.

Conclusion

Seaweed Salad is a vibrant, nourishing dish that brings the flavors of the ocean to your plate in a fresh and delightful way. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, it’s an easy side that complements a variety of meals while delivering both taste and nutrition. Give it a try—you might just crave it again tomorrow.

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