There’s something incredibly refreshing about a cold, crunchy salad, and this mung bean sprout salad with sesame dressing is no exception. It’s got everything you want in a light, healthy dish—crisp texture, nutty aroma, a zingy dressing, and just the right touch of umami. Inspired by East Asian flavors and the vibrant simplicity of sprouted beans recipes, this salad is perfect as a side or a light lunch. Whether you're already a fan of bean sprout salad or new to mung bean sprouts recipes, you're in for a delicious, fuss-free treat.
Mung Bean Sprout Salad with Sesame Dressing
Prep Time 20 minutes mins
Cook Time 5 minutes mins
Total Time 25 minutes mins
Course Appetizer, Side Dish
Cuisine Japanese, Korean
Mixing bowls At least two – one for the salad and one for the dressing.
Mandoline slicer or julienne peeler Helpful for slicing the carrot and cucumber finely.
Whisk or Fork To combine the dressing ingredients.
Strainer or salad spinner For thoroughly rinsing the bean sprouts.
Small skillet For toasting sesame seeds if not using pre-toasted ones.
For the Salad
- 2 cups fresh mung bean sprouts not canned
- 1 medium carrot julienned
- 2 scallions thinly sliced
- 1/2 red bell pepper thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds toasted
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro optional but recommended
- 1/2 cucumber thinly sliced into half moons
- 1/4 cup edamame beans shelled and lightly steamed
- A handful of broccoli sprouts optional but adds color and nutrients
For the Sesame Dressing
- 2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon light soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 clove garlic minced
- Juice of half a lime
- Salt to taste
Step 1: Prep the Sprouts
Start by rinsing the mung bean sprouts thoroughly in cold water. This not only cleans them but also revives their natural crispness. Drain them using a colander or salad spinner. If you’re using store-bought, check the expiration date—they spoil quickly.
Step 2: Chop the Veggies
Julienne the carrot, slice the red bell pepper, and cut the cucumber into thin half-moons. Slice the scallions and roughly chop the cilantro if using. Set all veggies aside in a large mixing bowl.
Step 3: Toast the Sesame Seeds
If your sesame seeds aren’t pre-toasted, toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat until golden and fragrant. This should take 2-3 minutes. Be sure to keep an eye on them—they burn fast.
Step 4: Steam the Edamame
Briefly steam the edamame beans if using frozen ones. They don’t need long—just 2-3 minutes to get tender. Then shock them in cold water to preserve their vibrant color.
Step 5: Mix the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together sesame oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, grated ginger, lime juice, and garlic. Taste and adjust salt if needed.
Step 6: Assemble the Salad
Add the bean sprouts, steamed edamame, and all the chopped veggies to the bowl. Pour the dressing over and toss gently to combine. Top with toasted sesame seeds and optional broccoli sprouts for added texture.
What to Pair This Salad With
This salad is incredibly versatile and complements a wide range of main dishes:
- Grilled proteins: Perfect alongside grilled salmon, tofu, or chicken. Try it with stir fry bean sprouts and grilled chicken for a pan-Asian dinner.
- Rice or noodle dishes: Serve with mung bean noodle recipes like japchae or pad woon sen for a refreshing counterpoint.
- Soups: Pairs wonderfully with soup recipes like miso soup, hot and sour soup, or chicken broth-based soups.
- Asian appetizers: Serve with dumplings, spring rolls, or even spicy edamame.
FAQs
1. Can I use canned bean sprouts in this salad?
Technically yes, but they tend to be mushier and lack the crisp bite of fresh sprouts. If you're using canned bean sprouts recipes, rinse them thoroughly and pat them dry, but fresh is best here.
2. What type of sprouts should I use—are all bean sprouts the same?
Not all are the same. For this recipe, use mung bean sprouts which are short, crisp, and commonly used in chinese bean sprouts recipes. Avoid soy sprouts, which are thicker and have a stronger flavor.
3. How do I grow my own mung bean sprouts?
If you’re curious about how to make sprouts, it's quite simple: soak mung beans overnight, then drain and rinse them twice daily. Keep them in a dark container, and in 2–4 days, you’ll have fresh sprouts ready for your sprouts recipes indian or salads like this.
4. Can I add protein to this salad to make it a meal?
Absolutely. Add shredded chicken, seared tofu, or even tempeh. This salad also works well with a poached egg on top for a quick lunch. For a heartier take, consider pairing it with other recipes using bean sprouts like stir-fried noodles or rice bowls.
5. What other veggies can I add or substitute?
You can switch out the red bell pepper for julienned snap peas, or replace the cucumber with thinly sliced radish. If you're a fan of asian brussel sprouts, roasted and chopped Brussels can add a rich, nutty depth.
