If you love dumplings but also crave something light and refreshing, this Dumpling Salad is the perfect balance between comfort and crunch. It combines soft, flavorful dumplings with crisp lettuce and a tangy, slightly spicy dressing that wakes up every bite. Whether served warm or chilled, this salad brings together the best of two worlds—Asian-inspired flavor and salad simplicity.
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A New Way to Enjoy Dumplings
Dumplings are often enjoyed steamed or pan-fried with dipping sauce, but turning them into a salad gives them a whole new life.
The idea is simple: take your favorite veggie dumplings, pair them with crisp vegetables, and a vibrant dressing, and you’ve got a full meal that’s as nourishing as it is satisfying.
It’s ideal for lunch, dinner, or even as a centerpiece for casual gatherings.
When to Serve Dumpling Salad
This dish fits beautifully into any season.
On warm days, Dumpling Salad is a cool, refreshing meal that doesn’t weigh you down. In colder months, it works just as well with slightly warm dumplings and rice for a cozy yet light bowl.
It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or as a creative way to use up leftover dumplings. It also packs beautifully for lunchboxes, making it an excellent option for meal prep.
What Makes These Ingredients Work So Well
Every element in this Dumpling Salad has a purpose.
The veggie dumplings bring a satisfying bite, while lettuce and tomato keep things crisp and fresh.
The dressing, made with sambal oelek, soy sauce, rice vinegar, garlic, and brown sugar, balances heat, tang, and sweetness. The green onions add brightness, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds finishes everything with a touch of nuttiness.
How to Make Dumpling Salad
Thaw your veggie dumplings—steamed or lightly pan-fried both work beautifully. In a small bowl, whisk together rice vinegar, canola oil, soy sauce, sambal oelek, minced garlic, and brown sugar until smooth.
Give the dressing over the dumplings in the pan. Make sure they are fully covered and heat them for two more minutes.Toss the lettuce, tomatoes, and green onions in a large bowl, then add the dumplings including all the dressing from the pan. Finish with sesame seeds if you like a little extra texture.
The result is a colorful, aromatic Dumpling Salad that tastes just as good as it looks.
What Sets This Dumpling Salad Apart
Unlike many salad recipes that rely on greens alone, this Dumpling Salad is built for depth and satisfaction.
The combination of vegetables, and protein-rich dumplings makes it a complete meal that feels indulgent yet balanced. The sambal oelek dressing offers just enough heat to make it exciting, while the rice ties everything together into a harmonious bowl.
It’s a creative and flexible take on fusion cooking—easy enough for everyday meals yet impressive enough for guests.
Tips for Leftovers
If you have any leftover Dumpling Salad, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. To keep it fresh, store the dressing separately and toss it just before serving.
You can gently reheat the dumplings before adding them back to the salad if you prefer a warm version.
Variations to Try
Feel free to get creative with this Dumpling Salad recipe.
Try swapping lettuce for cabbage or kale for more crunch. Add shredded carrots or cucumbers for freshness, or top with roasted peanuts for extra texture.
For a different flavor profile, use chili crisp instead of sambal oelek, or drizzle a little sesame oil into the dressing for richness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes! Frozen dumplings work perfectly. Just thaw them completely and cook according to package directions before adding them to the salad.
Absolutely. The dressing can be stored in the fridge for up to a week. Just whisk it again before using.
It’s delicious both ways. Serve it chilled for a refreshing summer meal or warm for a cozy comfort dish.
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Dumpling Salad
A vibrant and satisfying Dumpling Salad that blends crispy lettuce and tender veggie dumplings with a bold sambal oelek dressing. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or meal prep—fresh, colorful, and packed with flavor.
Ingredients
- 10 oz veggie dumplings, thawed
- 3 cups lettuce, chopped
- 1 tablespoon sambal oelek
- 1 medium tomato, chopped
- 4 green onions, chopped
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons canola oil
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Steam or pan-fry the dumplings until tender and golden..
- In the meantime, in a small bowl, whisk together rice vinegar, canola oil, soy sauce, sambal oelek, garlic, and brown sugar to create the dressing.
- Drizzle the dressing over the dumplings in the pan and cover them completely with it. Heat, then set aside.
- In a large salad bowl, combine lettuce, tomato, and green onions. Add the dumplings.
- Sprinkle with sesame seeds just before serving. Serve warm or chilled.
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 2 Serving Size: 1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 479Total Fat: 24gSaturated Fat: 3gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 20gCholesterol: 0mgSodium: 1198mgCarbohydrates: 52gFiber: 7gSugar: 11gProtein: 16g