Potsticker Salad (Dumpling Salad) – Easy Asian-Inspired Family Meal

Potsticker Salad, also known as Dumpling Salad, is a fresh, flavorful way to elevate frozen dumplings any day of the week. This Potsticker Salad combines crispy or steamed vegan gyoza with juicy heirloom tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and a fragrant basil-tamari dressing for a bright, umami-packed dish. Perfect for a quick lunch, light dinner, or impressive potluck option, this salad balances savory dumplings with refreshing vegetables and a hint of sweetness from maple syrup. If you’re looking for an easy Asian-inspired salad, vegan dumpling recipes, or a no-fuss weeknight meal, Potsticker Salad (Dumpling Salad) delivers flavor, texture, and freshness in every bite.

Introduction

Who says frozen dumplings are just for a quick snack? Potsticker Salad transforms ordinary gyoza into a vibrant, satisfying meal. The combination of tender dumplings, sweet and juicy heirloom tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and aromatic basil makes every bite a harmony of flavors and textures. A simple tamari, balsamic vinegar, and maple syrup dressing ties it all together, giving a sweet-savory umami punch that feels fresh, light, and addictive.

This salad is versatile—you can steam the dumplings for softness or pan-fry them for a crispier bite. Add optional ingredients like bean sprouts, thinly sliced cabbage, or edamame for extra crunch and nutrition. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds or crispy fried onions to elevate presentation and flavor. Potsticker Salad is an easy, fresh, and wholesome way to make your dumplings the star of the meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy: Uses frozen dumplings and minimal prep.
• Vibrant flavors: Umami-rich dumplings meet sweet tomatoes and fresh basil.
• Textural contrast: Soft dumplings, crunchy cucumbers, and juicy tomatoes.
• Customizable: Add extra vegetables or spice with garlic chili sauce.
• Vegan-friendly: Entire salad is plant-based and naturally dairy-free.
• Perfect for meal prep: Can be served at room temperature or lightly chilled.

Ingredients Breakdown

Servings: 4 people
Calories: 350 per serving

Main Ingredients

• 1 lb frozen vegan gyoza dumplings
• 1 lb heirloom tomatoes, mixed colors
• 1 English cucumber or 4 Persian cucumbers
• 5 scallions, thinly sliced
• 1 red chili pepper (optional)
• ½ cup basil leaves

Dressing

• 3 tablespoons tamari (low sodium)
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 2–3 teaspoons maple syrup

Garnish

• 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds or crispy fried onions

Optional Add-Ins

• Thinly sliced cabbage
• Carrot
• Bean sprouts
• Edamame

Ingredient Notes:

• Frozen gyoza: Can be steamed or pan-fried for texture variation.
• Heirloom tomatoes: Provide sweetness and juiciness.
• Cucumbers and scallions: Add crunch and freshness.
• Basil: Aromatic herb that brightens the salad.
• Tamari-balsamic-maple dressing: Balances umami, acidity, and subtle sweetness.

Tools & Equipment Needed

• Large bowl
• Knife and cutting board
• Skillet (optional for pan-frying dumplings)
• Steamer or microwave-safe bowl (for steaming dumplings)
• Measuring spoons
• Wire rack (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Steaming Method

1. Steam dumplings. Cook 1 lb frozen gyoza according to package instructions. Transfer to a large bowl and toss with 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional) to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare dressing. Combine 3 tablespoons tamari, 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar, and 2–3 teaspoons maple syrup. Pour over steamed dumplings and gently toss to coat.
3. Prepare vegetables. Cut tomatoes into wedges and thinly slice cucumbers and scallions. Add to the bowl with the dumplings. If using, slice red chili pepper and include it.
4. Add herbs and garnish. Tear ½ cup basil leaves over the top. Sprinkle with 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds or crispy fried onions. Toss lightly and serve at room temperature.

Pan-Fry Method

1. Heat skillet. Preheat a large skillet over medium heat and add enough vegetable oil to coat the bottom.
2. Cook dumplings. Spread dumplings in the pan and cook for about 5 minutes until heated through. Proceed with dressing and salad assembly as above.

Tips & Variations

• Extra crunch: Add shredded cabbage, carrots, or bean sprouts.
• Protein boost: Include edamame or tofu cubes.
• Heat factor: Add sliced red chili or a drizzle of garlic chili sauce.
• Serving variation: Serve with a side of rice or noodles for a more filling meal.
• Storage: Salad is best eaten immediately but can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. Dressing can be stored separately.

Flavor Profile

Potsticker Salad delivers layers of flavor: savory, tender dumplings meet sweet tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and fresh basil. The tamari-balsamic-maple dressing provides umami richness, mild sweetness, and bright acidity. Optional chili adds gentle heat, while toasted sesame seeds or fried onions contribute crunch. Textural contrast between soft dumplings and crisp vegetables keeps every bite interesting.

Nutritional Overview (Per Serving)

• Calories: 350
• Carbohydrates: 60g
• Protein: 11g
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Fiber: 6g
• Sugar: 14g
• Sodium: 972mg
• Potassium: 534mg
• Vitamin A: 1438 IU
• Vitamin C: 49 mg
• Calcium: 111 mg
• Iron: 3 mg

Dietary Notes: Vegan, plant-based, dairy-free, low-cholesterol.

Make-Ahead & Meal Prep Tips

• Steam or pan-fry dumplings ahead and store separately from vegetables.
• Make dressing in advance and store in an airtight container.
• Assemble just before serving to maintain freshness and texture.
• Salad can be enjoyed at room temperature or lightly chilled.

FAQs

Can I use any frozen dumplings?
Yes, vegan or meat-filled dumplings can work, but adjust cooking method accordingly.

Can this salad be served cold?
Yes, but it’s best eaten shortly after assembly for texture.

What if I don’t have balsamic vinegar?
Use rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar for a milder flavor.

Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely—thinly sliced cabbage, carrots, bean sprouts, and edamame all work well.

How do I make it spicy?
Include a sliced red chili or drizzle garlic chili sauce before serving.

Cooking Timeline

Prep Time	Cook Time	Total Time	Servings
10 minutes	5–10 minutes	15–20 minutes	4

Serving Suggestions

• Serve in a large bowl for casual family meals.
• Garnish generously with toasted sesame seeds or crispy fried onions for presentation.
• Include optional garlic chili sauce for an extra kick.
• Great as a main dish for lunch or a light dinner.

Recipe Variations

1. Crunchy Veggie Upgrade: Add shredded cabbage, carrots, and bean sprouts.
2. Protein Boost: Toss in edamame or baked tofu cubes.
3. Spicy Kick: Thinly slice red chili or add chili oil.
4. Noodle Bowl: Serve dumplings and vegetables over soba or rice noodles.

Ingredient Spotlight

Gyoza Dumplings

Choose high-quality frozen gyoza with vegan filling for convenience and flavor. They can be steamed or pan-fried. Tossing with sesame oil prevents sticking and enhances aroma.

Tamari

Low-sodium tamari brings umami depth to the dressing. Its rich, slightly salty flavor balances the sweetness of maple syrup and acidity of balsamic vinegar.

Pro Cooking Tips

• Toss dumplings gently to prevent tearing.
• Ensure vegetables are sliced evenly for consistent texture.
• Watch pan-frying closely to avoid overcooking.
• Tear basil by hand for better flavor release than cutting with a knife.

Storage & Freezing Guide

• Salad is best served fresh; refrigerate for up to 1 day.
• Store dressing separately to maintain texture.
• Dumplings can be cooked in advance and refrigerated.
• Not recommended to freeze fully assembled salad due to vegetable texture.

Nutrition Estimate Table (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	350 kcal
Protein	11g
Carbs	60g
Fat	10g
Fiber	6g

Dietary Notes: Vegan, dairy-free, plant-based, low-cholesterol.

Expanded Conclusion

Potsticker Salad (Dumpling Salad) elevates frozen dumplings into a fresh, flavorful, and satisfying meal. With tender dumplings, crisp vegetables, bright herbs, and a sweet-savory dressing, it’s a light yet filling dish suitable for any occasion. Whether for a quick weeknight dinner, lunch, or a colorful potluck contribution, this salad is versatile, easy, and delicious. Save the recipe, try it with your favorite dumplings, and enjoy a vibrant, umami-packed meal that’s as fresh as it is comforting.

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