Horenso no goma-ae (spinach & sesame salad)
Horenso no goma-ae is a traditional Japanese salad featuring blanched spinach coated in a nutty sesame dressing. This dish balances the earthy flavours of sesame seeds with fresh greens, making it an ideal light side dish.
Cook time 5 min
Prep time 10 min
Ingredients:
1/3 cup sesame seeds1 tbsp soy sauce
1 tsp spice mix
2 tsp sugar
1 tbsp water
3 cups spinach
Horenso no goma-ae is a traditional Japanese dish that translates to spinach with sesame dressing. This healthy and delicious salad combines the nutty flavor of sesame seeds with fresh spinach, creating a flavorful dish that's perfect as a side or light meal.
Instructions:
- Heat a dry skillet over medium heat.
- Add the sesame seeds and toast them until they become fragrant and lightly browned, about 3-5 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
- Remove from heat and let them cool.
- Once the sesame seeds have cooled, place them in a mortar and pestle (or use a spice grinder).
- Grind the seeds into a coarse powder. It's okay if some seeds remain whole, as this adds texture to the salad.
- In a small bowl, combine the ground sesame seeds, soy sauce, spice mix, sugar, and water.
- Mix well until the sugar is fully dissolved and you have a smooth dressing.
- Bring a pot of water to a boil.
- Add the spinach and blanch for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, just until wilted.
- Immediately transfer the spinach to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process and retain its vibrant green color.
- Once cooled, drain the spinach and squeeze out any excess water. You can gently pat it dry with a paper towel as well.
- Cut the blanched spinach into bite-sized pieces.
- Place the spinach in a mixing bowl and pour the sesame dressing over it.
- Toss well to ensure the spinach is evenly coated with the dressing.
- Transfer the dressed spinach to a serving dish.
- Optionally, you can sprinkle some additional whole sesame seeds on top for garnish.
- Serve the Horenso no Goma-ae as a side dish with your favorite Japanese meal. This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but it can also be stored in the refrigerator for up to a day.
Horenso no goma-ae is a delightful way to enjoy spinach. Its nutty sesame dressing perfectly complements the freshness of the spinach, creating a flavorful and nutritious dish. With simple ingredients and a few easy steps, you can bring a touch of Japanese cuisine into your kitchen. Enjoy this salad as a side dish or a healthy snack!
Horenso no goma-ae (spinach & sesame salad) FAQ:
Toast the sesame seeds in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 3-5 minutes, stirring constantly until they are fragrant and lightly browned.
While you can use pre-ground sesame seeds, toasting and grinding whole seeds enhances the flavor and texture of the dish.
Blanch the spinach for 30 seconds to 1 minute until it wilts. It should remain vibrant green; immediately transfer it to ice water to stop the cooking process.
This salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one day. For best flavor, enjoy it fresh.
You can substitute the spice mix with a pinch of red pepper flakes or omit it entirely if you prefer a milder flavor.
Cooking Tips:
- Use fresh spinach to ensure the best texture and flavor. Baby spinach is a good alternative if regular spinach is unavailable.
- Toast the sesame seeds lightly before grinding them to enhance their nutty flavor.
- Adjust the amount of soy sauce and sugar according to your taste preferences.
- Ensure the spinach is thoroughly drained after blanching to prevent the dressing from becoming too watery.
- For added flavor, you can incorporate a splash of rice vinegar or some grated ginger into the dressing.
Nutrition Facts
6 ServingsCalories 66kcal
Protein 2.33g
Carbohydrates 3.15g
Fiber 1.22g
Sugar 1.78g
Fat 5g
More recipes
Sweet cucumber and radish salad
A refreshing sweet cucumber and radish salad with vinegar dressing.
05 May 2026Bacon and broccoli salad with sunflower seeds and cranberries
A crunchy bacon and broccoli salad with sunflower seeds and cranberries.
05 May 2026Grilled onion salad with rosemary
Grilled onion salad with rosemary and mustard dressing.
05 May 2026East-west slaw with peanut butter and coconut milk
A vibrant East-West slaw with peanut butter and coconut milk.
05 May 2026Roasted chat potato and herb salad
A vibrant roasted potato salad with fresh herbs and a tangy dressing.
05 May 2026Roast pumpkin salad with cranberries and pistachio
Warm roast pumpkin salad with cranberries and pistachio.
05 May 2026