Dumpling Salad
There’s something so comforting about dumplings. Whether they’re steamed, pan-fried, or boiled, dumplings always remind me of cozy evenings and shared meals. One day, while staring at a pack of frozen dumplings in the freezer and a bunch of fresh produce in the fridge, inspiration struck — why not turn these humble dumplings into a refreshing, spicy salad? That’s how this Dumpling Salad was born, and let me tell you, it’s become a regular on our table.
This salad has everything I love: bold flavors, contrasting textures, and the ease of throwing it together in under 20 minutes. It’s my go-to when I want something satisfying yet light, and it’s always a hit when friends come over. Think juicy dumplings tossed with crisp cucumbers, vibrant cherry tomatoes, and a chili oil dressing that packs a punch — a total flavor bomb!
Table of Contents
- About This Dumpling Salad Recipe
- Why You’ll Love This Dumpling Salad Recipe
- Key Ingredients
- How To Make Dumpling Salad
- Have It Your Way
- Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)
- Health Benefits
- Other Recipes You’ll Love
About This Dumpling Salad Recipe
This Dumpling Salad Recipe is a fresh, spicy, and umami-rich dish that takes your favorite store-bought frozen dumplings and gives them a bold makeover. The dumplings are cooked to perfection, then tossed in a savory dressing made with soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, ginger, and chili oil. Cherry tomatoes, cucumber, scallions, and cilantro add crunch and brightness, while sesame seeds and sesame oil bring a nutty aroma to finish it off.
Why You’ll Love This Dumpling Salad Recipe
- Quick and Easy – Ready in under 20 minutes using frozen dumplings.
- Flavor-Packed – Bold, spicy, tangy, and umami all in one bite.
- Fresh & Crunchy – A great way to use up fresh veggies.
- Versatile – Works with any type of dumpling: veggie, tofu, or mushroom!
- Perfect for Hot Days – A cool, refreshing salad that still satisfies.
Key Ingredients
- Frozen Dumplings – The heart of the dish; soft, juicy bites that soak up the dressing.
- Soy Sauce – Adds savory, umami-rich depth to the salad.
- Vinegar (Apple or Rice) – Balances the flavors with a touch of acidity.
- Chili Oil – Brings heat, aroma, and that signature bold kick.
- Sesame Oil – Adds nutty richness and enhances the umami.
- Garlic – Raw garlic gives the salad a strong, zesty punch.
- Ginger – Adds warmth and a hint of spice to the dressing.
- Cherry Tomatoes – Juicy and sweet, they brighten each bite.
- Cucumber – Crisp and hydrating, perfect for crunch.
- Carrots: Add color and a touch of sweetness.
- Purple Cabbage – Adds vibrant color, crunch, and antioxidants.
- Scallions – Sharp and fresh with a mild onion flavor.
- Cilantro – Fresh, herbaceous, and slightly citrusy.
- Sesame Seeds – Nutty and toasty, perfect for finishing touch.
How To Make Dumpling Salad
- Cut all the vegetables to desired shapes. Try to keep the shape and size similar.
- In a bowl, combine minced garlic, grated ginger, brown sugar, chili crisp/chili oil, soy sauce, and black vinegar. Whisk to combine, and set aside. Here is the Homemade Sichuan Chili Crisp Recipe
- In a large frying pan over medium heat, heat 2 tbsp cooking oil. Place frozen dumplings flat-side down, and space them out evenly. Once crisp on the bottom, add 1/4 cup of water, and immediately close the lid to trap steam and allow the dumplings to steam until the water has evaporated, 4-5 minutes. Transfer the cooked dumplings to a bowl, and set aside. Here is the Link for Homemade Gyoza Recipe
- To a large salad bowl, add the cooked dumplings, along with all of the vegetables. Drizzle with our homemade salad dressing, and finish with toasted sesame seeds.
- Gently toss all ingredients to combine and coat evenly. Be careful to avoid puncturing or breaking any of the dumplings.
- Garnish with more fresh cilantro/thai basil/mint, and toasted sesame seeds. Enjoy!
Have It Your Way
- Spice Level – Adjust the chili oil to make it mild or fiery.
- Add More Greens – Toss in shredded romaine, napa cabbage, or spinach.
- Citrus Twist – Add a splash of lime juice for extra zing.
- Extra Crunch – Top with crispy shallots or roasted peanuts.
- Make It a Meal – Serve with a side of rice or add some grilled tofu for extra protein.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~280
- Protein: ~8g
- Carbohydrates: ~32g
- Fat: ~12g
- Fiber: ~3g
(Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary depending on the brand of dumplings used.)
Health Benefits
- Balanced Meal – Combines carbs, veggies, and healthy fats.
- Plant-Based Option – Easy to keep vegetarian or vegan.
- Rich in Antioxidants – Thanks to tomatoes, cucumbers, and fresh herbs.
- Hydrating – Cucumber and tomatoes are water-rich and refreshing.
- Digestive Support – Garlic, ginger, and vinegar aid digestion.
Other Recipes You’ll Love
- Mediterranean Chickpea Feta Salad
- Wood Ear Mushroom Salad
- Wasabi Cucumber Salad
- Asian Coleslaw
- Broccoli Caesar Salad
Dumpling Salad
Ingredients
- 15 Frozen Dumplings
- 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes quartered
- 1 cup Carrots julienned
- 1 cup Purple Cabbage thinly sliced
- 1 cup Cucumbers batons
- 1 Long Hot Red Pepper thinly sliced
- 2 Scallions thinly sliced
- 1 Cilantro chopped
- 1 tbsp Sesame Seeds
Salad Dressing
- 1 tbsp Ginger
- 1 tbsp Garlic
- 2 tbsp Soy Sauce
- 2 tbsp Chilli Oil
- 1 tbsp Black Vinegar apple or Rice
- 1 tbsp Sesame Oil
- 1 tbsp Brown Sugar
Equipment
Instructions
- Cut all the vegetables to desired shapes. Try to keep the shape and size similar.
- In a bowl, combine minced garlic, grated ginger, brown sugar, chili crisp/chili oil, soy sauce, and black vinegar. Whisk to combine, and set aside.
- In a large frying pan over medium heat, heat 2 tbsp cooking oil. Place frozen dumplings flat-side down, and space them out evenly. Once crisp on the bottom, add 1/4 cup of water, and immediately close the lid to trap steam and allow the dumplings to steam until the water has evaporated, 4-5 minutes. Transfer the cooked dumplings to a bowl, and set aside.
- To a large salad bowl, add the cooked dumplings, along with all of the vegetables. Drizzle with our homemade salad dressing, and finish with toasted sesame seeds.
- Gently toss all ingredients to combine and coat evenly. Be careful to avoid puncturing or breaking any of the dumplings.
- Garnish with more fresh cilantro/thai basil/mint, and toasted sesame seeds. Enjoy!
Notes
- Thaw dumplings slightly if pan-frying for crispier texture.
- Cool before mixing – Let dumplings cool a bit so they don’t wilt the veggies.
- Minced garlic is raw – If you prefer milder garlic, sauté it briefly in oil.
- Great for meal prep – Keep dressing separate and mix just before eating.
- Control the heat – Start with 1 tsp chili oil and increase to taste.
Video
Nutrition
Here is the link for Homemade Vegetable Gyoza.
Here is the Link to make most delicious Sichuan Chili Crisp at home.
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