Name: Crispy Dumpling Salad with Soy Dressing That's Simply Irresistible
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 180 g arugula (fresh and peppery for a delightful base); 150 g cherry tomatoes (halved, sweet and juicy for a burst of color); 1 piece cucumber (thinly sliced, crisp crunch to balance the dish); 60 g green onions (sliced, adds a mild onion flavor with a pop of green); 60 g onion (thinly sliced, for a sharp kick); 30 g sesame seeds (toasty topping for added crunch); 1 bag frozen dumplings of choice (20–30 pieces, your favorite for that crispy element); 15 ml olive oil (for frying dumplings); 75 ml tamari or soy sauce (deep umami flavor in the dressing); 30 ml rice vinegar (bright acidity to balance richness); 5 g freshly minced garlic (aromatic flavor enhancer); 5 g freshly grated ginger (adds warmth and zing); 15 g brown sugar (a touch of sweetness to round out the dressing); 15 ml chili crisp or chili oil (for a spicy kick, adjust to taste); 30–45 ml water (to thin the dressing to your liking)

When the craving for something crispy and fresh strikes, this Crispy Dumpling Salad with Soy Dressing is my go-to solution. Imagine the warm crunch of perfectly fried dumplings paired with the vibrant crunch of arugula and juicy cherry tomatoes, all doused in a tangy, zesty dressing that wakes up your taste buds.

I discovered this recipe during a busy week where I refused to settle for yet another takeout order. With a little creativity and a few pantry staples, I transformed frozen dumplings into a delightful, wholesome meal that everyone at my table wanted seconds of. Whether you’re prepping for a light lunch, a side dish for dinner, or the star attraction at your next gathering, this salad brings a beautiful balance of flavors and textures.

In just 25 minutes, you can have a plateful of crunch and warmth that’s perfect for shaking off that fast food fatigue. Let’s dive into the steps, and you’ll see just how easy it is to elevate your home cooking game!

Why is Crispy Dumpling Salad with Soy Dressing a must-try?

Freshness guaranteed: This recipe combines crispy dumplings with vibrant greens for a refreshing twist on classic flavors.
Quick and easy: With just 25 minutes from prep to plate, it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
Flavor explosion: The zesty soy dressing enhances every bite, making it irresistible!
Versatile option: Customize with your choice of dumplings or seasonal veggies for endless variety.
Crowd-pleaser: Ideal for gatherings, your guests will rave about this unique dish!
This Crispy Dumpling Salad not only tantalizes your taste buds but also supports your journey toward reclaiming wholesome home-cooked meals. Enjoy the balanced approach to satisfying your cravings while steering clear of fast food!

Crispy Dumpling Salad Ingredients

• Dive into the vibrant flavors!

180 g arugula – fresh and peppery for a delightful base
150 g cherry tomatoes, halved – sweet and juicy for a burst of color
1 piece cucumber, thinly sliced – crisp crunch to balance the dish
60 g green onions, sliced – adds a mild onion flavor with a pop of green
60 g onion, thinly sliced – for a sharp kick, use red onions for sweetness
30 g sesame seeds – toasty topping for added crunch
1 bag frozen dumplings of choice (20–30 pieces) – your favorite for that crispy element
15 ml olive oil – for frying dumplings; use avocado oil for a higher smoke point
75 ml tamari or soy sauce – deep umami flavor in the dressing
30 ml rice vinegar – bright acidity to balance richness
5 g freshly minced garlic – aromatic flavor enhancer
5 g freshly grated ginger – adds warmth and zing
15 g brown sugar – a touch of sweetness to round out the dressing
15 ml chili crisp or chili oil – for a spicy kick, adjust to taste
30–45 ml water – to thin the dressing to your liking

Crafted with these ingredients, the Crispy Dumpling Salad with Soy Dressing promises a delightful experience that rejuvenates your meals while keeping quality in check!

How to Make Crispy Dumpling Salad with Soy Dressing

Fry Dumplings: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the frozen dumplings, turning occasionally, until crispy and golden brown (about 7-8 minutes).
Combine Greens: In a large mixing bowl, toss together the arugula, halved cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, green onions, and thinly sliced onion for a fresh and colorful base.
Whisk Dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together tamari or soy sauce, rice vinegar, minced garlic, grated ginger, brown sugar, chili crisp or chili oil, and water until well combined for a flavorful dressing.
Dress Salad: Drizzle the soy dressing over the vibrant salad mixture, then gently toss to ensure everything is evenly coated and the flavors meld beautifully.
Serve: Top the salad with your beautifully fried crispy dumplings, allowing them to shine as the star of this enticing dish. Enjoy your creation!

Optional: Sprinkle with sesame seeds for an extra layer of texture.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

For busy home cooks, the Crispy Dumpling Salad with Soy Dressing is a lifesaver! You can prepare the salad components up to 24 hours in advance by washing and slicing the arugula, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, green onions, and onion. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness and crunch. Additionally, whisk together the dressing (tamari, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, brown sugar, chili oil, and water) and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. When it’s time to serve, simply fry the dumplings fresh for that crispy goodness and toss the salad with the chilled dressing. This approach allows you to enjoy a fantastic meal in minutes, keeping the vibrant flavors just as delicious!

How to Store and Freeze Crispy Dumpling Salad

Fridge: Store any leftover Crispy Dumpling Salad in an airtight container for up to 3 days to keep the ingredients fresh, but be aware the dumplings may lose their crispiness.

Freezer: If you’ve made extra dumplings, freeze them before frying. Place the dumplings on a baking sheet in a single layer to freeze for 1-2 hours, then transfer to a zip-top bag for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To enjoy crispy dumplings again, reheat them in a skillet with a bit of oil over medium heat until crispy, rather than microwaving, which can make them soggy.

Assembly: It’s best to store the salad and dressing separately from the dumplings to maintain texture, then assemble just before serving for optimal enjoyment.

What to Serve with Crispy Dumpling Salad with Soy Dressing?

Elevate your meal by pairing this fresh and crunchy salad with delightful accompaniments that tickle the palate.

Steamed Edamame: A sprinkle of sea salt on warm edamame complements the crispy dumplings beautifully, offering a nutty, buttery flavor that elevates your meal.
Sesame Noodles: The rich and savory taste of sesame noodles adds a delightful contrast, providing a comforting carb option that balances the crunch of your salad.
Miso Soup: This warm, umami-rich broth sips smoothly alongside your salad, enhancing the dining experience with an unexpected warmth that contrasts with the crispness of the dish.
Crispy Tempura Vegetables: Their light batter and fluffy texture mirror the satisfying crunch of the dumplings, creating a harmonious blend of flavors and textures.
Asian Slaw: A tangy slaw packed with crunchy veggies adds a refreshing pop, perfectly complementing both the dumplings and the vibrant flavors of your salad.
Chili Garlic Toast: Crunchy and spicy, this toast introduces a bold flavor contrast, perfectly pairing with the soy dressing and enhancing the overall meal experience.
Green Tea: A calming cup of green tea serves as a light, refreshing beverage, cleansing the palate and enhancing the meal’s overall flavor profile.

Each of these pairings brings out the best in the Crispy Dumpling Salad with Soy Dressing, crafting a memorable dining experience that feels both indulgent and wholesome!

Crispy Dumpling Salad Variations

Feel free to get creative and make this salad truly your own with these fun twists!

Gluten-Free: Substitute tamari for soy sauce labeled gluten-free, and ensure dumplings are also gluten-free for everyone to enjoy.
Spicy Kick: Add chopped fresh jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes in the dressing for an extra heat boost that’ll wake up your taste buds.
Veggie Delight: Introduce thinly sliced bell peppers or shredded carrots for a colorful crunch that adds both texture and extra nutrients to your dish.
Protein Boost: Toss in some cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu cubes to add heartiness to your salad, making it a filling meal all on its own!
Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like cilantro or mint into your salad for a refreshing, aromatic background that enhances every bite.
Crunchy Toppings: Sprinkle crispy fried onions or crushed peanuts on top for a delightful crunch that complements the crispy dumplings beautifully.
Fruit Twist: Try adding diced mango or pineapple for a tropical sweetness that contrasts wonderfully with the savory soy dressing.
Balsamic Drizzle: For a unique flavor twist, drizzle some balsamic reduction over the finished salad for an unexpected tang that’s simply delightful.

Expert Tips for Crispy Dumpling Salad

Choose Quality Dumplings: Use high-quality frozen dumplings; this elevates the dish. Look for those with natural ingredients for better flavor.
Fry at Right Temp: Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding dumplings to achieve that perfect crispy texture. A skillet thermometer helps!
Customize Greens: Feel free to substitute arugula with spinach or kale if you want a different taste or texture in your Crispy Dumpling Salad.
Whisk Dressing Well: Take your time to whisk the dressing until all ingredients are thoroughly combined; this ensures each bite is deliciously flavorful.
Serve Fresh: For the best experience, serve the salad immediately after assembling. This keeps the dumplings crispy and the greens fresh!

Crispy Dumpling Salad with Soy Dressing Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right dumplings?
Absolutely! When selecting frozen dumplings, look for those made with high-quality ingredients. Opt for dumplings that contain natural meats and vegetables, and avoid those with excess preservatives. This ensures your Crispy Dumpling Salad with Soy Dressing maintains great flavor and texture.

How should I store leftover salad?
Store any leftover Crispy Dumpling Salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just remember, while the salad ingredients like arugula and cherry tomatoes will stay fresh, the dumplings may soften and lose their crispiness.

Can I freeze leftover dumplings?
Yes, you can! If you’ve got leftover dumplings before frying, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag, and they can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just fry them directly from frozen for the best results.

What should I do if the dumplings aren’t getting crispy?
Very! If your dumplings aren’t achieving that golden crisp, ensure your oil is hot enough before frying. Preheat the oil until it shimmers; this usually takes about 5-7 minutes on medium heat. Avoid overcrowding the pan as this lowers the oil’s temperature, preventing them from crisping up nicely.

Are there any dietary considerations with this recipe?
Definitely! If you’re serving this dish to those with dietary restrictions, consider using gluten-free tamari instead of regular soy sauce. Also, check the dumpling ingredients for allergens, especially if you’re catering to someone with a shellfish or soy allergy, as some dumplings may contain these ingredients.