The Salad That Tastes Like Your Favorite Takeout
Hey friends! If you’ve been loving the fresh, crisp salads lately like my Butter Lettuce with Lemon Vinaigrette you are going to flip for this Asian-inspired version. This Butter Lettuce Salad with Sesame-Ginger Dressing is savory, nutty, and packed with that addictive “restaurant salad” flavor (you know, the one you always want extra dressing for?).
Unlike my sweeter Strawberry Goat Cheese Salad, this bowl is all about savory umami. The tender butter lettuce leaves are the perfect vessel for a rich, gingery dressing that clings to every bite. It’s light enough for lunch but bold enough to serve alongside Halal Grilled Chicken Shawarma for a fun fusion dinner.
Why This Combo Wins
Butter lettuce (Bibb or Boston) is soft and velvety, which contrasts beautifully with the crunch of colorful veggies like carrots, cabbage, and radishes. But the real star is the dressing. It’s a simple blend of toasted sesame oil, soy sauce, fresh ginger, and rice vinegar that strikes the perfect balance between salty, tangy, and sweet.
If you’re looking for easy lunch ideas that break you out of a boring sandwich rut, this ginger dressing Japanese-style salad is your answer. It takes 10 minutes and tastes better than the side salad at your local sushi spot.
The Flavor Essentials
- Butter Lettuce: The base. Its mild flavor lets the bold dressing shine without competing. Tear it into bite-sized pieces or leave leaves whole for wraps.
- The Crunch: Shredded carrots, sliced radishes, and thinly sliced red cabbage or cucumber add necessary texture.
- Fresh Aromatics: Green onions (scallions) and fresh cilantro bring brightness.
- Sesame Seeds: Toasted white or black seeds for garnish and extra nuttiness.
- The Dressing:
- Toasted Sesame Oil: Essential for that nutty depth.
- Rice Vinegar: Provides a mild, sweet acidity.
- Soy Sauce (or Tamari): For the salty umami kick.
- Fresh Ginger & Garlic: Grated fresh is best for a spicy kick.
- Sweetener: Honey or maple syrup to balance the salt.
- Optional Creaminess: A spoonful of tahini or cashew butter makes it creamy without dairy.
Butter Lettuce with Sesame-Ginger Dressing
- Total Time: 15
- Yield: 4 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Butter Lettuce Salad with Sesame-Ginger Dressing brings the bold flavors of your favorite Japanese steakhouse salad home. Tender butter lettuce is tossed with crunchy veggies and a homemade dressing made with fresh ginger, sesame oil, and soy sauce.
Ingredients
2 heads butter lettuce, washed and dried
1/2 cup carrots, shredded or julienned
1/2 English cucumber, thinly sliced
3–4 radishes, thinly sliced
2 green onions, sliced
1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
For the Sesame-Ginger Dressing:
3 tablespoons rice vinegar
2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil
2 tablespoons olive oil (or neutral oil)
1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tablespoon tahini (optional, for creaminess)
Instructions
1. In a small jar or bowl, combine the rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, olive oil, honey, grated ginger, minced garlic, and tahini (if using). Shake or whisk vigorously until well combined and emulsified.
2. Wash the butter lettuce leaves gently and dry thoroughly (a salad spinner works best). Tear larger leaves into bite-sized pieces.
3. In a large salad bowl, combine the lettuce, shredded carrots, cucumber slices, and radishes.
4. Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving. Toss gently to coat everything evenly.
5. Garnish with sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds.
6. Serve immediately to keep the greens crisp.
Notes
Fresh ginger is key for the best flavor don’t swap for powdered if you can avoid it.
To make the dressing creamy without dairy, blend it with a tablespoon of tahini or peanut butter.
If prepping ahead, store the dressing in a jar in the fridge for up to a week. Shake well before using.
Add grilled chicken, tofu, or shelled edamame for a protein boost.
- Prep Time: 15
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Asian-Fusion
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Mix It Up
Step 1: Prep the Greens: Wash and thoroughly dry the butter lettuce leaves. Wet leaves will water down your flavorful dressing!.
Step 2: Make the Dressing: In a jar, combine 2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil, 2 tablespoons soy sauce, 2 tablespoons rice vinegar, 1 tablespoon honey (or maple syrup), 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger, and 1 minced garlic clove. Shake vigorously until emulsified.
Step 3: Assemble: Place the lettuce in a large bowl. Add shredded carrots, sliced cucumber, and radishes.
Step 4: Dress & Toss: Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving. Toss gently to coat the leaves evenly.
Step 5: Top: Finish with sliced green onions and a generous sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds.
Make It Your Own
- Add Protein: Top with grilled shrimp, tofu, or shredded chicken for a complete meal.
- Extra Crunch: Add crispy wonton strips or chopped peanuts.
- Noodle Swap: Toss in some cold soba noodles or zucchini noodles for a heartier lunch.
- Pair It: Serve with dumplings or simple roasted salmon.
Better Than Takeout
This Butter Lettuce with Sesame-Ginger Dressing is crisp, refreshing, and packed with bold Asian-inspired flavors. It’s the easiest way to elevate your lunch game. Enjoy!
