Best Easy Cold Dressed Kelp Salad Recipe

Shredded kelp is tossed in a tangy sesame-vinegar dressing for a mineral-rich cold salad. This vegetarian, healthy dish is extremely low calorie and supports lower cholesterol and dash diet goals.

Cook 20 min Difficulty EASY 65 kcal
#vegetarian #DASH #low calorie #healthy salad
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Ingredients
Main ingredients
  • shredded kelp 10 oz
  • carrot 0.5 cup
  • cucumber 0.5 cup
Seasonings/Sauce
  • rice vinegar 2 tbsp
  • soy sauce 1.5 tbsp
  • sesame oil 1 tbsp
  • sugar 1 tsp
  • garlic 1 clove
  • roasted sesame seeds 1 tbsp
Nutrition summary
Carbohydrates 8 g 49%
Protein 2 g 12%
Fat 3 g 39%
Serving size 100g
Cooking steps
  1. 1

    Rinse shredded kelp in cold water to remove excess salt, then soak for 10 minutes and drain well.

  2. 2

    Bring a pot of water to a boil, add the kelp, and blanch for 2 minutes on high heat; immediately transfer to an ice bath to stop cooking.

  3. 3

    Julienne the carrot and cucumber finely, ensuring uniform thin slices for even texture.

  4. 4

    In a large bowl, mix together rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar, and finely minced garlic to create the dressing.

  5. 5

    Combine drained kelp, carrot, and cucumber in the bowl. Toss thoroughly with the dressing to ensure all strands are evenly coated.

  6. 6

    Let the salad chill in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes before serving to enhance flavor absorption.

  7. 7

    Just before serving, sprinkle with roasted sesame seeds and gently toss one last time for aroma and texture.

Personalized Q&A
Q. What's the key ingredient in this recipe?
Kelp is the defining ingredient of this salad—its mineral-rich, slightly briny taste and chewy texture provide both nutrition and the core character of the dish. The fresh carrot and cucumber add crunch and color, but kelp is what truly distinguishes this cold salad.
Q. What cooking step is most crucial to texture and flavor?
Blanching the kelp quickly in boiling water and immediately shocking it in ice water is essential. This step ensures the kelp retains its crisp, tender bite without turning rubbery or losing its vibrant flavor. Skipping the ice bath can lead to an overcooked, limp texture.
Q. How does this salad avoid being soggy or bland?
By thoroughly draining the kelp after soaking and blanching, and tossing ingredients just before serving, the salad maintains a fresh, crunchy texture. The sesame-vinegar dressing is mixed separately and only added once the kelp is cooled, ensuring bright, balanced flavors without dilution.
Q. How many calories and macronutrients are in each serving?
Each 100g serving contains about 65 kcal, with 8g carbohydrates (49% of calories), 2g protein (12%), and 3g fat (39%), making it a low-calorie, nutritionally balanced choice aligned with vegetarian and DASH diet preferences.
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