Description
“Make authentic Japanese Spinach Salad (Goma-ae) at home with this easy recipe! Blanched spinach tossed in a rich, nutty sesame dressing—healthy, vegan, and full of umami flavor. Perfect as a quick side dish!”
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 bunch fresh spinach
- 2 tbsp white sesame seeds
- 1 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tbsp mirin (or rice vinegar + ½ tsp sugar)
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 tbsp dashi (optional)
- ½ tsp salt
Instructions
- Prepare the Spinach: Boil water with a pinch of salt. Blanch the spinach for 30 seconds, then transfer to an ice bath.
- Drain and Squeeze: Once cooled, drain the spinach and squeeze out excess water. Cut into bite-sized pieces.
- Toast the Sesame Seeds: Heat a dry pan on low and toast the sesame seeds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn them.
- Grind the Sesame Seeds: Use a mortar and pestle (or spice grinder) to grind toasted sesame seeds into a coarse paste.
- Make the Dressing: In a bowl, mix the ground sesame seeds with soy sauce, mirin, sugar, and dashi (if using). Stir to combine.
- Combine and Serve: Toss the spinach with the sesame dressing until evenly coated. Serve immediately or chill before serving.
Notes
- Alternative Greens: Swap spinach for kale or bok choy.
- Different Nuts/Seeds: Use sunflower seeds or almonds instead of sesame.
- Sweeter Version: Add more sugar or a drizzle of honey.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute tamari for soy sauce.
- Spicy Kick: Add chili flakes or wasabi.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Blanching
- Cuisine: Japanese-Inspired
Keywords: Goma-ae, Japanese spinach salad, sesame spinach, easy Japanese side dish, vegan Japanese recipe