This Copycat Panera Asian Sesame Salad is a crunchy and colorful dish. With fresh greens, crisp veggies, and a tasty sesame dressing, it’s perfect for lunch or dinner!
Every bite feels like a bright flavor party in my mouth. I love to top it with grilled chicken for some extra protein. Who can resist a salad that looks this good? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Mixed Greens: A combination of romaine, napa cabbage, and red cabbage offers great texture and flavor. If you’re in a hurry, pre-packaged salad mixes work just as well.
Edamame: If you can’t find edamame, peas or chickpeas are great alternatives. They add protein and a nice crunch, too!
Sliced Almonds: For a nut-free option, try sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds. They’re both tasty and add a healthy crunch!
Crispy Wonton Strips: If you can’t find these, chow mein noodles are a perfect swap. Crushed rice crackers could also add a nice crunch!
Ginger: Fresh ginger provides the best flavor. If you’re short on time, powdered ginger is an alternative but use less (about 1/4 teaspoon).
What’s the Best Way to Toast Almonds & Sesame Seeds?
Toasting nuts and seeds enhances their flavor and adds a delightful crunch to your salad. Here’s how to do it easily:
- Heat a small skillet over medium heat.
- Add the sliced almonds and sesame seeds. Stir them frequently for about 3-5 minutes.
- Watch carefully, as they can burn quickly! They’re done when lightly golden and fragrant.
- Once toasted, remove them from the pan immediately to stop the cooking process.
Following these tips will ensure your Copycat Panera Asian Sesame Salad is full of flavor and texture! Enjoy making it!
Copycat Panera Asian Sesame Salad
Ingredients:
For the Salad:
- 4 cups mixed greens (such as romaine, napa cabbage, and red cabbage), shredded
- 1 cup shredded kale
- 1 cup broccoli florets, cut small
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 cup edamame, shelled and cooked
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds, toasted
- 1/4 cup crispy wonton strips or chow mein noodles
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds, toasted
- Optional: Grilled chicken breast, sliced (for added protein)
For the Asian Sesame Dressing:
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil or light sesame oil
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar or rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey or sugar
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. If you’re toasting the almonds and sesame seeds, set aside 5 extra minutes. Make sure to serve it immediately for the freshest taste and crunch!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Salad Ingredients:
In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed greens, shredded kale, broccoli florets, shredded carrots, edamame, and green onions. Give it a gentle toss to mix everything together.
2. Toast Almonds and Sesame Seeds:
Heat a small skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced almonds and sesame seeds, stirring frequently until they are light golden and fragrant. This should take about 3-5 minutes. Once toasted, remove them from the heat and set aside to cool.
3. Make the Dressing:
In a medium bowl or jar, whisk together the vegetable oil, vinegar, soy sauce, honey, toasted sesame oil, grated ginger, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is combined. Give it a taste and adjust seasoning as you like.
4. Dress the Salad:
Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently until all the ingredients are coated evenly. You don’t want to break the delicate greens!
5. Add Crunch and Garnish:
Sprinkle the toasted almonds, sesame seeds, and crispy wonton strips or chow mein noodles on top of the salad for that extra crunch!
6. Optional Protein:
If you’d like to make this salad heartier, slice some grilled chicken breast and place it on top.
7. Serve Immediately:
This salad is best enjoyed fresh to keep all its lovely textures crisp. Serve it right away and enjoy a burst of flavors!
Enjoy your fresh and delicious Copycat Panera Asian Sesame Salad! It’s a great way to eat healthy while still treating your taste buds! 🥗✨
FAQ
Can I Use Different Greens for This Salad?
Absolutely! While the recipe calls for mixed greens and kale, you can use any greens you like. Spinach, arugula, or even romaine alone would work beautifully!
How Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
To make this dish vegan, simply substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar in the dressing. Additionally, leave out the grilled chicken, or replace it with tofu for added protein.
What Should I Do with Leftovers?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. However, it’s best to keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat it to maintain the salad’s crispness!
Can I Prepare the Dressing in Advance?
Yes! You can make the dressing a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Just give it a quick shake or stir before drizzling it over the salad when you’re ready to serve.
