Soy Sesame Snow Pea Salad with Water Chestnuts

Soy Sesame Snow Pea Salad with Water Chestnuts Recipe - Asian Cuisine

Region / culture: Asia | Servings: 4

Introduction

Soy Sesame Snow Pea Salad with Water Chestnuts is a refreshing and flavorful dish that is perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish for dinner. The combination of crunchy snow peas, water chestnuts, and a savory soy sesame dressing creates a delicious and healthy salad that is sure to impress.

History

This recipe is a modern twist on traditional Asian salads that often feature a combination of fresh vegetables and a flavorful dressing. The addition of water chestnuts adds a unique texture and flavor to the dish, making it a popular choice for those looking for a light and refreshing salad option.

Ingredients

1 lb (454 g) snow peas, with strings removed
1 large red bell pepper, cored, seeded, and thinly sliced
8 oz (227 g) can of sliced water chestnuts, drained
2 large scallions, trimmed and sliced
1 tbsp of light soy sauce
1 tbsp of hoisin sauce
1 tbsp of sesame oil
1 tbsp of rice wine vinegar
0.5 cup of fried rice noodles or crispy chow mein noodles

How to prepare

Bring a pot of water to a boil.
Add salt and snow peas.
Cook for 3 minutes, then drain.
In a bowl, combine peas, red pepper, chestnuts, and scallions.
Allow the mixture to cool.
In a second bowl, whisk together soy sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, and vinegar.
Toss the vegetables with the sauce.
Serve the dish at room temperature or cold.
Garnish with noodles and sliced scallions just before serving.

Variations

Add in some cooked shrimp or tofu for added protein.
Swap out the snow peas for sugar snap peas for a slightly different flavor and texture.
Mix in some cooked quinoa or brown rice for a heartier salad option.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to remove the strings from the snow peas before cooking to ensure a tender and easy-to-eat salad.

- For added crunch, you can lightly toast the sesame seeds before adding them to the salad.

- Feel free to customize the salad by adding in your favorite vegetables or protein sources, such as grilled chicken or tofu.

Serving Suggestions

This salad can be served as a side dish alongside grilled chicken or fish, or enjoyed on its own as a light and refreshing meal.

Cooking Techniques

The key to this recipe is to blanch the snow peas just until they are tender-crisp, as overcooking them can result in a mushy texture. Be sure to cool the vegetables before tossing them with the dressing to prevent wilting.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have hoisin sauce on hand, you can substitute with oyster sauce or sweet soy sauce. You can also use tamari or coconut aminos in place of soy sauce for a gluten-free option.

Make Ahead Tips

This salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just be sure to add the chow mein noodles right before serving to maintain their crunch.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the salad with a sprinkle of sesame seeds or chopped peanuts for added texture and flavor. You can also serve the salad in individual lettuce cups for a fun and elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

This salad pairs well with grilled teriyaki chicken, sesame-crusted tofu, or a side of steamed jasmine rice. For a complete meal, serve with a side of miso soup or a cucumber salad.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply allow the salad to come to room temperature or enjoy it cold straight from the fridge.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Soy Sesame Snow Pea Salad with Water Chestnuts contains approximately 150 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Soy Sesame Snow Pea Salad with Water Chestnuts contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Soy Sesame Snow Pea Salad with Water Chestnuts contains approximately 5 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Soy Sesame Snow Pea Salad with Water Chestnuts contains approximately 3 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

This salad is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin K, and fiber, thanks to the snow peas and red bell pepper. The water chestnuts also provide a source of potassium and manganese.

Alergens

This recipe contains soy and wheat (from the chow mein noodles), so it may not be suitable for those with allergies to these ingredients.

Summary

Overall, this salad is a healthy and nutritious option that is low in calories and fat, while providing a good source of vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Soy Sesame Snow Pea Salad with Water Chestnuts is a delicious and healthy dish that is perfect for a light and refreshing meal. Packed with crunchy vegetables and a savory dressing, this salad is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe rotation.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the sense of wonder I felt when I first saw this recipe for Soy Sesame Snow Pea Salad with Water Chestnuts. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Mei Ling in her bustling kitchen. Mei Ling was known for her exquisite Asian cuisine, and I always marveled at her ability to create such vibrant and flavorful dishes.

As I watched her effortlessly chop vegetables and mix together sauces, I couldn't help but ask her about the unique salad she was preparing. She smiled warmly and began to tell me the story behind the recipe.

"It all started many years ago when I was traveling through the countryside of China," Mei Ling began. "I stumbled upon a small village where the locals were preparing a feast for a special celebration. They graciously invited me to join them, and I was lucky enough to taste this incredible salad for the first time."

The salad was a beautiful medley of vibrant snow peas, crunchy water chestnuts, and a savory soy sesame dressing that danced on my taste buds. I had never tasted anything quite like it before, and I knew that I had to learn how to make it myself.

Mei Ling continued to explain the intricacies of the recipe, from the proper way to blanch the snow peas to the secret ingredient that gave the dressing its unique flavor. I watched intently, taking mental notes on each step and ingredient she used.

After the salad was complete, Mei Ling handed me a small bowl to try. As I took my first bite, I was transported back to that beautiful village in China. The flavors were bold and refreshing, with a perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess. It was a culinary masterpiece, and I knew that I had to add it to my repertoire of recipes.

Over the years, I have made this Soy Sesame Snow Pea Salad with Water Chestnuts countless times for family gatherings, holidays, and special occasions. Each time I prepare it, I am reminded of Mei Ling and the magical moment when I first tasted this delicious dish.

I have since added my own twist to the recipe, incorporating fresh herbs from my garden and adjusting the seasonings to suit my taste. The salad has become a beloved favorite among my family and friends, who always request it whenever we gather for a meal.

As I sit here now, reminiscing about that fateful day in Mei Ling's kitchen, I am filled with gratitude for the friendships and experiences that have enriched my culinary journey. Cooking has always been a way for me to connect with others and share my love and passion for food.

I hope that you will enjoy making this Soy Sesame Snow Pea Salad with Water Chestnuts as much as I have. Remember to savor each bite and appreciate the flavors that come together to create a truly unforgettable dish. Happy cooking!