5 Easy Chinese Salads: A Fresh Twist on Asian Flavors

Chinese cuisine isn’t all about stir-fries and dumplings—there’s a whole world of vibrant, refreshing salads that bring the essence of Asia to your table. These five easy Chinese-inspired salads are packed with bold flavors, crunchy textures, and healthy ingredients.

Perfect for lunch, dinner, or as a side dish, these recipes are quick to prepare and bursting with authentic taste. Let’s dive into these delightful creations!

Health Benefits of Chinese Salads

Why These Dishes Are Good for You

Chinese salads often feature fresh vegetables, lean proteins, and nutrient-rich ingredients like sesame seeds, ginger, and soy sauce.

They’re low in calories but high in vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants. The use of herbs and spices not only enhances flavor but also supports digestion and boosts immunity.

Whether you’re looking for a light meal or a nutritious snack, these salads deliver both taste and nutrition.

Salad 1: Sesame Noodle Salad

• Difficulty: Easy
• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cooking time: 8 minutes
• Total time: 18 minutes
• Serves: 4

Ingredients

• 8 oz soba noodles (or rice noodles)
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 carrot, julienned
• 1/2 cucumber, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup chopped peanuts or sesame seeds
• For the Dressing:
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 1 teaspoon honey (or maple syrup for vegan option)
  • 1 clove garlic, minced

Execution

1. Cook the noodles according to package instructions, then rinse under cold water to stop cooking. Drain well.
2. In a bowl, whisk together the dressing ingredients until smooth.
3. Combine the cooled noodles with the sliced vegetables in a large mixing bowl. Pour the dressing over the mixture and toss gently.
4. Sprinkle with peanuts or sesame seeds before serving.

Salad 2: Cucumber Sesame Salad

• Difficulty: Easy
• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cooking time: 0 minutes
• Total time: 15 minutes
• Serves: 6

Ingredients

• 2 medium cucumbers, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons sesame seeds, toasted
• For the Dressing:
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
  • Pinch of salt

Execution

1. Place the sliced cucumbers in a colander and sprinkle with a pinch of salt. Let them sit for 10 minutes to release excess moisture, then pat dry with paper towels.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the dressing ingredients.
3. Toss the cucumbers with the dressing and let them marinate for 10–15 minutes.
4. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds before serving.

Salad 3: Chicken and Mango Salad

• Difficulty: Easy
• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cooking time: 15 minutes (if using raw chicken)
• Total time: 25 minutes
• Serves: 4

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked shredded chicken breast
• 1 ripe mango, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
• 1/4 cup chopped cashews
• For the Dressing:
  • 2 tablespoons lime juice
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon honey
  • 1 teaspoon grated ginger

Execution

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, diced mango, red bell pepper, and chopped cilantro.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the dressing ingredients.
3. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
4. Top with chopped cashews before serving.

Salad 4: Tofu and Bok Choy Salad

• Difficulty: Easy
• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cooking time: 10 minutes
• Total time: 20 minutes
• Serves: 4

Ingredients

• 1 block firm tofu, pressed and cubed
• 2 cups baby bok choy, chopped
• 1/4 cup chopped scallions
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds, toasted
• For the Dressing:
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 1 teaspoon grated ginger

Execution

1. Toss the cubed tofu with a little cornstarch and pan-fry until golden brown. Set aside.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the fried tofu, chopped bok choy, and scallions.
3. Whisk together the dressing ingredients and pour over the salad. Toss gently to coat.
4. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds before serving.

Salad 5: Spicy Peanut Noodle Salad

• Difficulty: Easy
• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cooking time: 8 minutes
• Total time: 18 minutes
• Serves: 4

Ingredients

• 8 oz spaghetti or egg noodles
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cucumber, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup chopped peanuts
• For the Dressing:
  • 2 tablespoons peanut butter
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon sriracha (adjust to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon honey

Execution

1. Cook the noodles according to package instructions, then rinse under cold water. Drain well.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the dressing ingredients until smooth. Add a splash of water if needed to thin it out.
3. Combine the cooled noodles with the sliced vegetables in a large mixing bowl. Pour the dressing over the mixture and toss gently.
4. Sprinkle with chopped peanuts before serving.

Additional Tips

• Use leftover cooked chicken or tofu to save time when preparing these salads.
• Substitute ingredients based on availability or personal preference—snap peas, carrots, or snow peas work great in most recipes.
• Make extra dressing and store it in the fridge for future meals.