If you love dumplings (who doesn’t?), but also want to add more veggies to your meals, this dumpling salad is the perfect solution. It’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor—an ideal lunch or dinner that comes together in just 15 minutes. You get crispy, pan-fried dumplings on a bed of fresh greens, all tossed in a tangy, savory sauce. It’s a great way to transform a freezer staple into a refreshing, well-balanced meal.
What is Dumpling Salad?
Dumpling salad is exactly what it sounds like—your favorite crispy, pan-fried dumplings served on a fresh, vibrant bed of greens with a flavorful, tangy dressing. It’s the perfect way to turn frozen dumplings into a balanced, veggie-packed meal in just 15 minutes or less. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or a light yet satisfying dinner, this salad delivers crunch, flavor, and convenience all in one bowl.
Why You’ll Love This Dumpling Salad Recipe
Customizable: Swap in your favorite dumplings or add extra toppings to make it your own!
Quick & Easy: Ready in under 15 minutes, making it ideal for busy days.
Veggie-Packed: A fun and delicious way to eat more greens without feeling like you’re eating a boring salad.
Flavor Explosion: A mix of crispy dumplings, peppery arugula, sweet cherry tomatoes, and a perfectly balanced savory-sweet dressing.
Ingredients for Dumpling Salad
If you want to make the best dumpling salad, make sure you have the following ingredients:
Frozen Dumplings (12 pieces): Use any variety you like—vegetable, tofu, or mock meat dumplings all work well. Pan-frying them adds a crispy texture that contrasts beautifully with the fresh greens.
Oil (1-2 tbsp): A neutral oil like avocado or vegetable oil helps the dumplings develop a golden-brown crust while preventing them from sticking to the pan.
Arugula (or Mixed Greens): Peppery arugula adds a fresh, slightly spicy bite, but any leafy greens will work for a milder base.
Cherry Tomatoes: Their natural sweetness and juicy texture provide a refreshing contrast to the crispy dumplings.
Soy Sauce & Rice Vinegar: The foundation of the dressing—soy sauce adds depth and umami, while rice vinegar gives a bright, tangy balance.
Honey & Sesame Oil: Honey adds a hint of sweetness to balance the acidity, and sesame oil brings a rich, nutty aroma to the dressing.
Sriracha & Pickled Ginger: Sriracha adds heat, while pickled ginger provides a slightly sweet, tangy bite that enhances the overall flavor.
How to Make Dumpling Salad
Crisp the Dumplings: Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Arrange the dumplings in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes until the bottoms turn golden brown.
Steam to Perfection: Add a splash of water to the pan, cover, and let the dumplings steam for another 5-7 minutes until fully cooked and tender.
Prepare the Salad Base: While the dumplings cook, add arugula and halved cherry tomatoes to a large bowl. Toss gently to combine.
Mix the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, sesame oil, sriracha, and pickled ginger until smooth.
Assemble & Serve: Arrange the cooked dumplings over the salad base. Drizzle the dressing over the top and toss gently to coat everything evenly. Enjoy immediately while warm or let it cool slightly for a refreshing, room-temperature salad.
Looking For More Recipes? Check These Out!
Arugula adds a peppery bite, but you can use mixed greens, baby spinach, or even shredded cabbage for extra crunch.
Try shredded carrots, cucumbers, sesame seeds, or chopped nuts for extra texture and flavor.
Dumpling Salad
Ingredients
Dumplings:
- 12 frozen dumplings any variety
- 1-2 tbsp oil for sautéing
Veggie Base:
- Arugula or mixed greens
- Cherry tomatoes halved
Sauce:
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 2 tsp sriracha
- Pickled ginger to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Dumplings: Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add frozen dumplings in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes until the bottoms are golden brown. Add a splash of water, cover, and let steam for another 5-7 minutes until fully cooked.
- Prepare the Salad: While the dumplings cook, toss the arugula and cherry tomatoes in a large bowl.
- Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, sesame oil, sriracha, and pickled ginger.
- Assemble the Salad: Once dumplings are cooked, place them on top of the salad. Drizzle with the sauce and toss gently to combine.
- Serve & Enjoy! Enjoy immediately while the dumplings are warm, or let them cool slightly for a refreshing, room-temperature salad.
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