Shiso dressing salad, also known as “shiso dressing salad” in Japanese, is a light and flavorful salad that embodies the essence of Japanese cuisine. With its unique combination of aromatic shiso leaves, tangy vinegar, and savory soy sauce, this salad is a delightful way to elevate your dining experience. Whether you’re a seasoned salad enthusiast or just beginning to explore the world of Japanese flavors, this recipe is surprisingly easy to make and will leave you craving for more.
A Taste of Japan in Every Bite
My first encounter with shiso dressing salad was at a quaint little Japanese restaurant nestled in the heart of Kyoto. The vibrant green salad, adorned with delicate shiso leaves, was a feast for my eyes before I even took a bite. The moment the flavors hit my palate, I was captivated by the refreshing taste and the perfect balance of sweet, sour, and savory notes. It was love at first bite!
Inspired by that unforgettable experience, I’ve spent years perfecting my own shiso dressing recipe, and I’m excited to share it with you today. With a few simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can recreate this Japanese delight in your own kitchen.
Ingredients for Shiso Dressing Salad:
- 2 cups loosely packed shiso leaves (green or red, or a mix), washed and dried
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon mirin (sweet rice wine)
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar
- Pinch of salt
- Optional: 1 tablespoon grated ginger (for an extra kick)
- 4 cups your favorite salad greens (lettuce, spinach, arugula, etc.)
- Additional toppings of your choice (sliced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, sesame seeds, etc.)
Equipment You’ll Need
- Salad spinner (optional but helpful for drying the shiso leaves)
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Small bowl for whisking the dressing
- Large salad bowl for tossing
Let’s Make Shiso Dressing Salad!
Step 1: Prepare the Shiso Dressing
- In a small bowl, combine the rice vinegar, soy sauce, mirin, sesame oil, sugar, and salt.
- Whisk the ingredients together until the sugar is dissolved.
- Finely chop the shiso leaves and add them to the dressing.
- Whisk again to combine. You can also use a blender for a smoother dressing.
Step 2: Assemble Your Salad
- Rinse and dry your chosen salad greens thoroughly. A salad spinner is helpful for this step.
- Place the salad greens in a large bowl.
- Drizzle the prepared shiso dressing over the greens.
- Gently toss the salad to ensure the dressing coats the leaves evenly.
Step 3: Add Your Favorite Toppings
- Get creative and add your favorite toppings! Sliced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds are classic choices.
- You can also add grilled chicken or tofu for a more substantial salad.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your shiso dressing salad immediately for maximum freshness.
Tips for the Best Shiso Dressing Salad
- For a milder shiso flavor, use only the leaves and discard the stems.
- If you can’t find mirin, you can substitute it with 1 teaspoon of sugar and 1/2 teaspoon of water.
- Make the dressing ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Feeling adventurous? Try adding a tablespoon of grated ginger to the dressing for an extra zing.
Shiso Dressing Salad: A Versatile Delight
This shiso dressing is incredibly versatile and can be used to elevate a variety of dishes. Try it as a marinade for chicken or fish, a dipping sauce for dumplings, or even a dressing for noodle salads.
Fresh Shiso Dressing Salad
FAQs About Shiso Dressing Salad
Q: Where can I find shiso leaves?
A: Shiso leaves, also known as perilla leaves, can be found in Asian grocery stores or in the produce section of some well-stocked supermarkets.
Q: Can I use dried shiso leaves instead of fresh ones?
A: While dried shiso leaves can add a hint of flavor, they won’t provide the same fresh, vibrant taste as fresh shiso.
Q: How long can I store shiso dressing salad?
A: It’s best to enjoy your salad immediately after preparing it for maximum freshness. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. However, keep in mind that the greens may wilt slightly.
Explore More Delicious Salad Recipes
If you enjoyed this shiso dressing salad recipe, you might also like some of our other salad creations:
Preparing Shiso Dressing Salad ingredients
Ready to embark on a culinary adventure to Japan? Try this easy shiso dressing salad recipe and impress your family and friends with your newfound salad-making skills. Don’t forget to share your creations and tag us on social media – we love seeing your culinary masterpieces!
