Easy Vegan Spinach & Flaxseed Salad Recipe

This vegan spinach and flaxseed salad is a refreshing, nutritious dish suitable for many different diets. Let’s explore the detailed recipe to create this unique salad!

Why Try This Vegan Spinach & Flaxseed Salad?

Spinach is not only rich in vitamins A, C, and K but also provides abundant iron and antioxidants. Combined with flaxseed – an excellent source of plant-based omega-3s – this salad becomes an ideal choice for those who want a delicious meal that’s also healthy. This salad is particularly suitable for vegans, dieters, or anyone needing to add more greens to their meals.

Fresh vegan spinach and flaxseed salad in a bowl

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this vegan spinach and flaxseed salad, prepare the following ingredients:

• Spinach: 300g (choose young, fresh green leaves)
• Flaxseed: 2 tbsp (lightly toasted to enhance aroma)
• Carrot: 1 medium
• Roasted peanuts: 50g (coarsely crushed)
• Fresh herbs: Thai basil, Vietnamese coriander (1 small bunch)
• Chili: 1 (optional, to taste)
• Lime: 1
• Garlic: 2 cloves
• Soy sauce: 2 tbsp
• Sugar: 1 tbsp
• Sesame oil: 1 tbsp
• Seasoning: salt, pepper

Detailed Instructions: How to Make Vegan Spinach & Flaxseed Salad

1. Prepare the Ingredients

• Wash the spinach thoroughly and cut it into bite-sized pieces. If using mature spinach, briefly blanch it in boiling water, then immediately plunge it into ice water to maintain its green color and crispness.
• Peel the carrot and shred it thinly.
• Wash the fresh herbs and chop them finely.
• Peel and mince the garlic. Slice the chili.

2. Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, mix the following ingredients well:

• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp sugar
• Juice from 1 lime
• Minced garlic, sliced chili
• 1 tbsp sesame oil

Taste and adjust the seasoning to your preference.

Mixing the salad dressing ingredients in a small bowl

3. Mix the Salad

• Place the spinach, shredded carrot, and chopped herbs in a large bowl.
• Drizzle the dressing over the ingredients and toss gently to coat everything evenly.

4. Finish

• Arrange the salad on a plate. Sprinkle the crushed roasted peanuts and toasted flaxseeds on top.
• Enjoy immediately to savor the freshest taste.

Tips for an Even Tastier Salad

• Choose fresh spinach: Prioritize bunches with deep green leaves that aren’t wilted, yellowed, or bruised.
• Blanch spinach correctly: Blanch quickly in boiling water and immediately transfer to ice water to keep it crisp.
• Add ingredients freely: You can incorporate cucumber, bean sprouts, or mushrooms to enhance the flavor.
• Toast flaxseeds before use: Toasted flaxseeds are more aromatic and make the salad more appealing.

“The combination of spinach and flaxseed creates a salad that is both refreshing and nutrient-dense, particularly beneficial for heart health and digestion.” – Master of Nutrition Nguyen Thi Lan Huong

Variations of Spinach & Flaxseed Salad to Suit Your Taste

Feel free to get creative with the salad based on your personal preferences:

• Add mushrooms: Sautéed straw mushrooms or oyster mushrooms will add depth to the salad.
• Incorporate tofu: Diced crispy fried tofu adds a satisfying richness.
• Shredded green mango: Provides a natural sweet and sour tang that stimulates the palate.

“Vegan cuisine always offers endless opportunities for creativity. The key is to balance flavor and nutrition.” – Chef Tran Van An

Conclusion

Vegan spinach and flaxseed salad is a simple yet nutritious dish that’s easy to make at home. With readily available ingredients and quick preparation, it’s sure to be a favorite for the whole family. Try this recipe today and share your experience!

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

1. Can I substitute spinach with another type of green?

   Yes, you can use lettuce, baby greens, or microgreens, but the flavor profile will be different.

2. What are the health benefits of flaxseed?

   Flaxseed is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and lignans, supporting heart, brain, and digestive health.

3. How long can the salad dressing be stored?

   Store it in the refrigerator for a maximum of 2-3 days.

4. Is this salad suitable for people on a diet?

   Yes, it’s suitable because it’s low in calories and high in fiber and vitamins.

5. Can I replace peanuts with other nuts?

   Yes, you can substitute with cashews, walnuts, or almonds.

6. Where can I buy flaxseed?

   Flaxseed is available at supermarkets, health food stores, and online retailers.

7. What should I serve this salad with?

   It pairs well with rice, rice noodles, or can be used as a filling for fresh spring rolls (rice paper).

Hopefully, this article will help you confidently prepare the perfect vegan spinach and flaxseed salad!