Name: Crispy Dumpling Salad with Zesty Sweet Chili Twist
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 12-16 pieces frozen wontons/potstickers (Use Bibigo for delightful flavors.); 2 tablespoons sesame oil; 1 kit chopped broccoli slaw kit (Any slaw kit can be used.); 1 cup frozen shelled edamame (Microwave for freshness.); 1 medium shallot (Thin, mandolin-sliced works best.); 2 stalks green onion (Finely diced.); 1/4 cup cilantro (Adjust to taste or omit.); 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce (Key for zesty kick.); 2 tablespoons rice vinegar; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 cup wonton strips (Can replace with crispy noodles.); 1/4 cup diced almonds (Experiment with other nuts.); 1 tablespoon sesame seeds; 1 piece lime wedge (For added flavor.)

As I tossed the salad, the sound of crispy dumplings sizzling in the pan filled my kitchen, hinting at the delightful feast soon to unfold. This Crispy Dumpling Salad with Sweet Chili Dressing is not just a quick meal; it’s a vibrant dance of textures that combines a medley of fresh greens and undeniably crunchy dumplings, all brought together with a zesty, sweet dressing. Perfect for busy weeknights or as a flavorful side for gatherings, this recipe is done in just 30 minutes! With its healthy twist and satisfying crunch, this dish promises to awaken your taste buds and leave you feeling fantastic. Want to learn how to get this burst of flavor on your table? Let’s dive in!

Why is this salad a must-try?

Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, this Dumpling Salad is a perfect solution for busy days when you crave something delightful yet simple.

Textures Galore: Enjoy the satisfying crunch of crispy dumplings paired with fresh greens—each bite is an adventure!

Zesty Flavor Explosion: The zesty sweet chili dressing ties it all together, making your taste buds sing with delight.

Versatile Meal: Swap out ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs—add extra veggies or switch dumpling flavors for variety.

Crowd-Pleasing Dish: Perfect for gatherings, this salad is sure to impress family and friends, much like our delicious Curry Dumpling Soup or the hearty Rib Cornmeal Dumpling.

Dumpling Salad Ingredients

• For the Dumplings

Frozen wontons/potstickers – The heartiness of this main protein source will satisfy your cravings; I love using Bibigo for delightful flavors!
Sesame oil – This oil adds incredible depth of flavor; avocado oil can be used for air frying.

• For the Salad Base

Chopped broccoli slaw kit – Provides a nice crunch and variety; feel free to swap it with any slaw kit you enjoy.
Frozen shelled edamame – These add vibrant color and protein; just microwave for a fresh taste.
Shallot – This enhances the flavor profile beautifully; thin, mandolin-sliced works wonders!
Green onion – Finely diced, it offers a fresh, crisp bite that complements the salad perfectly.
Cilantro – This herb adds a fresh note; you can adjust the amount or omit it if you prefer a non-herbed version.

• For the Dressing

Sweet chili sauce – This dressing is key for a zesty kick; it delivers that perfect balance of sweetness and tang!
Rice vinegar – This ingredient brings the necessary acidity and brightness to the mix.
Soy sauce – A dash provides delicious umami depth, enhancing the overall flavor.

• For the Crunch

Wonton strips – They add a delightful crunch; feel free to replace them with crispy noodles if desired.
Diced almonds – These add nutty goodness and texture; experiment with other nuts if you like!
Sesame seeds – A finishing touch that brings texture, flavor, and a dash of elegance to your salad.

• For Serving

Lime wedge – A fresh squeeze at the end adds that bright burst of flavor to your delightful Dumpling Salad!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crispy Dumpling Salad with Sweet Chili Dressing

Step 1: Prepare Dumplings
Begin by cooking the frozen wontons or potstickers according to the package instructions. For a crispy finish, heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat with a splash of sesame oil. Pan-fry the dumplings for 2-3 minutes on each side, or air-fry them at 400°F for about 8-10 minutes until golden and crispy.

Step 2: Cook Edamame
While the dumplings are cooking, microwave the frozen shelled edamame for approximately 3 minutes until heated through. Stir halfway to ensure uniform heating. This vibrant addition will not only enhance the salad’s color but also provide a nutritious boost to your Dumpling Salad.

Step 3: Combine Salad Base
In a large mixing bowl, add the chopped broccoli slaw kit, cooked edamame, diced green onions, and finely sliced shallots. Toss gently to combine these fresh ingredients, creating a colorful base for your Crispy Dumpling Salad. This step incorporates a variety of textures and flavors that will shine through in the final dish.

Step 4: Make Dressing
In a measuring cup, whisk together the sweet chili sauce, rice vinegar, soy sauce, and sesame oil until smooth. For a thinner consistency, add a splash of water or vegetable broth. This zesty dressing is essential for tying all ingredients together and adding that signature flavor to your Dumpling Salad.

Step 5: Assemble Salad
Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad mix and toss thoroughly to ensure every ingredient is coated. Once well mixed, add the hot, crispy dumplings on top. For best results, keep the dumplings separate until serving to maintain their crunch if you’re not serving the salad immediately.

Step 6: Garnish
To finish your Dumpling Salad, sprinkle wonton strips, sesame seeds, and diced almonds over the top for an enticing crunch. Serve with a lime wedge on the side for squeezing over the dish right before enjoying, which will enhance the flavors with a burst of freshness.

How to Store and Freeze Dumpling Salad

Fridge: Store any leftover Dumpling Salad in an airtight container for up to 3 days to keep it fresh. Keep the dressing separate until serving to avoid sogginess.
Freezer: While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the cooked dumplings alone. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months.
Reheating Dumplings: To reheat frozen dumplings, steam or pan-fry until heated through, allowing them to regain their crispiness. Warm up the salad base in the microwave if needed.
Prepping Ahead: Prepare components like the dumplings and dressing ahead of time. Store each separately and combine when ready to serve for maximum freshness and texture.

Dumpling Salad Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to get creative and customize your Dumpling Salad experience with these delightful swaps and twists!

Homemade Dumplings: Create your own dumplings using fresh dough and your favorite fillings for a personal touch. This adds a unique flavor and makes the dish even more special.
Protein Alternatives: Swap the frozen dumplings for pan-seared tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian twist. The crispy texture of the tofu complements the fresh salad beautifully.
Extra Veggie Boost: Add shredded carrots, snap peas, or even bell peppers for more crunch and nutrition. Each added vegetable brings its own flavor, making your salad even more colorful.
Spicy Kick: Stir in some chili garlic sauce or sliced jalapeños into the dressing for a spicy version of your Dumpling Salad. This extra heat tantalizes your taste buds and elevates the dish to a whole new level.
Crunchy Toppings: Substitute wonton strips with crushed rice crackers or crispy chickpeas for a delightful crunch. This variation introduces a different texture while maintaining that satisfying crunch.
Flavor Fusion: Use a flavorful ginger-soy vinaigrette instead of the sweet chili dressing for a zesty Asian-inspired experience. The ginger adds a burst of flavor that pairs perfectly with the dumplings.
Nut Varieties: Instead of almonds, try cashews or walnuts for a twist on the nutty flavor. Each nut brings its own character, allowing you to cater the taste to your personal preference.
Herb Alternatives: Swap cilantro for fresh basil or mint for a refreshing twist. These herbs add a different aroma and flavor profile that can lighten the dish, making it ideal for summer.

As you explore these variations, you’ll discover endless possibilities that will keep your Dumpling Salad exciting every time. Don’t forget to check out our flavorful Curry Dumpling Soup or the hearty Rib Cornmeal Dumpling recipes for more culinary inspiration!

What to Serve with Crispy Dumpling Salad with Sweet Chili Dressing

Elevate your meal by exploring delightful pairing options that complement the vibrant flavors and textures of this salad.

Seared Tofu: Adds a rich protein source while soaking in the same sweet chili flavor profile for cohesion.
Mango Salad: This fresh, fruity salad brings a sweet tang that contrasts beautifully with the crispy dumplings, awakening your palate.
Sautéed Bok Choy: Lightly sautéed with garlic, bok choy introduces a tender yet slightly crunchy element that balances the dish.
Crispy Chicken Wings: Marinated with Asian spices, these wings enhance the crispy experience and create a festive atmosphere around the table.
Asian Slaw: The crunchy veggies and zesty dressing create a harmonic flavor dance—perfect for adding depth and freshness alongside.
Chilled Sake: This smooth beverage pairs seamlessly with the salad, complementing the umami and spice components with its delicate flavors.
Lychee Sorbet: For dessert, this exotic sorbet provides a refreshing cleanse, contrasting the savory richness of the dumplings and dressing.
Grilled Shrimp: The smokiness from the grill adds a complementary layer of flavor that tantalizes and contrasts with the salad’s freshness.

Enjoy mixing and matching these delicious pairings to create a well-rounded meal that your family will love!

Make Ahead Options

These Crispy Dumpling Salad components are perfect for meal prepping, making weeknight dinners a breeze! You can prepare the salad base (chopped broccoli slaw, edamame, green onions, and shallots) up to 3 days in advance; simply store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. The dressing can also be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 5 days. Just remember to keep the cooked dumplings separate until you’re ready to serve to keep them crispy. When it’s time to enjoy your meal, toss the salad with the dressing, top with the heated dumplings, and garnish with wonton strips, sesame seeds, and a fresh lime squeeze for a delicious finish!

Helpful Tricks for Dumpling Salad

Crispy Dumpling Secrets: Ensure your dumplings are patted dry before frying to prevent sogginess. This keeps the exterior deliciously crispy in your Dumpling Salad.
Vegetable Variations: Feel free to mix in vegetables like radishes or snap peas for added crunch and color. Customizing your salad makes it more appealing.
Dressing Perfection: Whisk the dressing until smooth. If it’s too thick, add a little water or broth gradually until you reach your desired consistency.
Storage Wisdom: To keep your salad fresh, store the lettuce, dressing, and dumplings separately for up to three days. This prevents wilting and sogginess!
Flavor Boosting: For an extra kick, add sliced jalapeños or a dash of sriracha to the dressing, elevating the taste of your Dumpling Salad.

Dumpling Salad Recipe FAQs

What should I look for when selecting frozen dumplings?
Absolutely! It’s best to choose frozen wontons or potstickers with visible filling and crisp edges. Avoid any packaging or containers with ice crystals inside, which can indicate freezer burn. Brands like Bibigo are recommended for their quality and flavor—just check that they don’t have any dark spots all over the dumplings.

How should I store leftover Dumpling Salad?
To keep your Dumpling Salad fresh, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container. Store your salad for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. Remember: to maintain texture, it’s important to keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve. This will prevent the greens from wilting and the dumplings from becoming soggy.

Can I freeze the dumplings for later use?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked dumplings! Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet for about 1-2 hours until they are firm. Then, transfer the dumplings to a freezer bag, removing as much air as possible. They will stay fresh in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, reheat them by steaming or pan-frying until they’re hot and crispy again.

What if my dressing is too thick?
Very! If you find your dressing is too thick, simply whisk in a little water or vegetable broth, a tablespoon at a time, until you achieve your desired consistency. This dressing should complement the salad without overwhelming it, so aim for a balanced, pourable texture that lightly coats the ingredients.

Are there any dietary considerations for this Dumpling Salad?
Yes! For those with allergies, be cautious with soy sauce, as it contains gluten. You can find gluten-free alternatives if needed. If you’re concerned about allergies from nuts, simply omit diced almonds or substitute them with seeds instead. Also, for pets, this salad is not suitable, as many ingredients like onions can be harmful to dogs.

Can I customize the vegetables in my Dumpling Salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap out the broccoli slaw with whatever salad base you enjoy. You can add colorful veggies such as shredded carrots, snap peas, or bell peppers for additional crunch and nutrition. This flexibility means you can enjoy a different flavor experience with every batch you make!