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Looking for a quick and delicious dish to add to your summer menu? Look no further than this Easy Edamame Salad Idea! This recipe is a delightful mix of flavors and textures, featuring tender edamame, sweet dried cherries, and creamy feta cheese, all tossed in a light olive oil dressing. The optional almonds add a satisfying crunch, while fresh basil or mint garnish provides a refreshing touch. In just 15 minutes, you can have a protein-packed side dish or snack ready to enjoy.
I first whipped up this Easy Edamame Salad Idea during a busy week and it has since become a go-to favorite in my kitchen. The balance of flavors and the simplicity of the ingredients make it a versatile dish that can be customized based on what’s in your pantry. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or need a quick side dish for a barbecue, this salad is sure to impress with its vibrant flavors and nutrient-packed ingredients. So, grab your edamame and get ready to create a dish that’s as easy to make as it is delicious to eat!
Quick Benefits
- Ready in just 15 minutes from start to finish
- Packed with plant protein and healthy fats
- Versatile enough to customize with seasonal ingredients
- Contains approximately 14g of plant protein per serving
Why You’ll Love This Delicious and Healthy Edamame Salad Recipe Recipe
- Ready in just 15 minutes from start to finish
- Uses mostly pantry and freezer ingredients
- Packed with plant protein and healthy fats
- Versatile enough to customize with seasonal ingredients
- Improves in flavor as it sits, perfect for meal prep
- Frozen shelled edamame provides a protein-rich base with a satisfying texture
- Dried cranberries or cherries add a sweet-tart contrast
- Crumbled feta cheese brings a creamy, salty element
- Extra virgin olive oil provides a flavorful dressing
- Almonds offer textural contrast and nutty flavor
- Fresh herbs bring a pop of color and freshness
- Contains approximately 14g of plant protein per serving
- Gluten free and can be made dairy free by omitting the feta
- Customizable with different fruits, cheeses, and nuts
- Perfect as a side dish, snack, or light lunch
- Nutrient-packed and suitable for vegetarian and vegan diets
- Toasting almonds intensifies flavor and crunch
- Serving warm in cooler months adds a comforting quality
- Great for meal prep and gatherings
- Can be enhanced with additional vegetables
- Can be made with fresh edamame, substitute feta, and dried cranberries
- Prepare ahead and store for up to 2 days
- Enhance with lemon juice and additional veggies for variety and freshness
Ingredients for Delicious and Healthy Edamame Salad Recipe
Main Ingredients
- 12 ounces blanched shelled edamame, frozen
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries or dried cherries
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic granules
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
Optional Ingredients
- 1/4 cup sliced or slivered almonds
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil or mint, for garnish
Pro Tips for Delicious and Healthy Edamame Salad Recipe
Pro Tip 1: To enhance the flavor of the almonds, toast them in a dry skillet for 3-4 minutes before adding them to the salad. This simple step intensifies their flavor and provides a satisfying crunch to the dish.
Pro Tip 2: For meal prep, pack a lemon wedge separately to squeeze over the salad just before eating. This will help brighten all the flavors and keep the salad tasting fresh and vibrant.
Pro Tip 3: Try serving the edamame salad slightly warm during cooler months for a comforting twist while still retaining its nutritional benefits. This versatile dish can be enjoyed throughout the year with a few simple adjustments to suit the season.
How to Make Delicious and Healthy Edamame Salad Recipe
Step 1: Step 01
Boil 6 cups of salted water. Add edamame and cook for 5-7 minutes until tender. Transfer to a bowl and cool completely.
Step 2: Step 02
After the mixture has cooled, combine the remaining ingredients in the bowl and mix thoroughly.
Step 3: Step 03
Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Serve promptly.
Storage Tips
Once the edamame salad is prepared, it can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Simply toss the salad again before serving to ensure all the flavors are well-distributed. It’s recommended to add any optional fresh herbs, like basil or mint, just before serving as they may wilt if mixed in too early. This dish actually improves in flavor as it sits, making it a great option for meal prep or to enjoy leftovers.
For longer storage, you can freeze the edamame salad by placing it in a freezer-safe container. However, it’s important to note that freezing may affect the texture of the salad slightly, particularly the feta cheese. When ready to enjoy the frozen salad, allow it to thaw overnight in the refrigerator, and give it a good stir before serving. The flavors may be slightly muted after freezing, but the dish should still be tasty and convenient for future use.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you don’t have frozen edamame, fresh edamame can be used as a substitute. Just make sure they are shelled and blanched before adding them to the salad for the best texture.
For a different cheese option, you can replace the feta with goat cheese, ricotta salata, or even a dairy-free alternative if needed. This substitution will bring a different creamy and tangy element to the dish.
If you don’t have dried cherries or cranberries on hand, you can swap them with raisins, chopped dried apricots, or even fresh blueberries in the summer. These alternatives will still provide a sweet-tart contrast that brightens each bite of the salad.
Serving Suggestions
For a creative serving suggestion, try presenting the Easy Edamame Salad in individual lettuce cups for a fun and elegant twist. Simply spoon the salad into crisp lettuce leaves such as butter lettuce or romaine hearts, and garnish with extra almonds and fresh herbs for a beautiful presentation. This not only adds a touch of freshness but also makes it a visually appealing appetizer or light meal option for gatherings.
Another creative idea is to incorporate the Easy Edamame Salad into a vibrant grain bowl. Layer a base of cooked quinoa or brown rice, then top it with a generous serving of the salad. Add additional toppings like sliced avocado, cherry tomatoes, and a drizzle of tahini dressing for a colorful and nutrient-dense meal. This bowl is not only visually appealing but also provides a well-rounded mix of flavors and textures for a satisfying and wholesome dish.
FAQs for Delicious and Healthy Edamame Salad Recipe
Can I use fresh edamame instead of frozen for this salad?
Yes, you can use fresh edamame. Ensure they are shelled and blanched before adding to the salad for the best texture.
Can I substitute feta with a different type of cheese?
You can substitute feta with goat cheese, ricotta salata, or even a dairy-free alternative if needed.
Can I use dried cranberries instead of dried cherries in this recipe?
Definitely! Dried cranberries work well and add a sweet-tart flavor similar to dried cherries.
Can I prepare the salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the salad a few hours ahead, but add the almonds and fresh basil or mint just before serving to retain their crunch and flavor.
Conclusion
Incorporating more plant-based proteins into your diet can be both delicious and rewarding, and this Easy Edamame Salad Idea is a perfect example of that. Its vibrant flavors and nutritional benefits make it a fantastic addition to your meal rotation. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or looking for a quick and nutritious side dish, this salad has you covered.
Don’t be afraid to get creative with this recipe and make it your own. Swap out ingredients, add new ones, or adjust seasonings to suit your taste preferences. The beauty of this Easy Edamame Salad Idea lies in its versatility and simplicity, making it a go-to option for busy days or lazy weekends. So go ahead, whip up a batch, and enjoy a refreshing and satisfying dish that will surely become a favorite in your kitchen.
Delicious and Healthy Edamame Salad Recipe
Protein-packed edamame salad with dried cherries, feta, and almonds, dressed in olive oil and fresh herbs; a quick, customizable, and nutrient-rich dish.
Prep Time10 Minutes
Cook Time5 Minutes
Total Time15 Minutes
CuisineFusion
Skill LevelEasy
Servings4 Servings
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 12 ounces blanched shelled edamame, frozen
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries or dried cherries
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic granules
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
Optional Ingredients
- 1/4 cup sliced or slivered almonds
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil or mint, for garnish
Instructions
-
Step 01: Boil 6 cups of salted water. Add edamame and cook for 5-7 minutes until tender. Transfer to a bowl and cool completely.
-
Step 02: After the mixture has cooled, combine the remaining ingredients in the bowl and mix thoroughly.
-
Step 03: Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Serve promptly.
