Fresh Spring Scallion Salad
The Ultimate Spring Vegetable! Revitalize Your Appetite with Fragrant Scallion Salad
This scallion salad is at its most delicious when freshly tossed and served immediately! Introducing a vibrant and simple scallion salad bursting with the fresh flavors of spring. Enjoy this flavorful side dish that brings the essence of spring to your table.
Main Ingredients- 300g fresh scallions (green onions)
- 1 tsp coarse salt (for blanching)
- 1 Tbsp toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)
- 1 Tbsp perilla oil (or sesame oil)
- 1 Tbsp fish sauce (or soy sauce for soup)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, wash the scallions thoroughly under running water. It’s important to rinse them carefully, as dirt can often get trapped near the roots. Bring a pot of water to a rolling boil, add 1 teaspoon of coarse salt, and then carefully place the scallions into the boiling water for about 15-20 seconds, just until they turn bright green and slightly tender. This quick blanching, similar to how you would treat spinach, helps maintain their crisp texture and vibrant color. Adding a little salt to the boiling water will make the scallions even more vividly green.
Step 2
Immediately after blanching, transfer the scallions to a bowl of ice-cold water to rapidly cool them down. This stops the cooking process and preserves their crispness. Once cooled, gently squeeze out as much excess water as possible using your hands. Properly draining the water is key to ensuring the dressing adheres well and the salad is flavorful. You can cut the scallions into 2-3 shorter pieces if you prefer, or leave them whole if they are plump and easy to manage. Today’s scallions are quite thick, so I’ll leave them as they are for a pleasant bite.
Step 3
Add 1 tablespoon of fish sauce (or soy sauce for soup) to the drained scallions. The fish sauce adds a wonderful depth of umami flavor, so it’s an essential ingredient.
Step 4
Finally, add 1 tablespoon of toasted sesame seeds for a nutty aroma and 1 tablespoon of fragrant perilla oil. Gently toss everything together with your hands until the scallions are well coated with the dressing. Be careful not to mix too vigorously, as this can bruise the delicate scallions. Your fresh and delicious scallion salad is now ready! It’s best enjoyed right after being tossed, so consider making it just as your meal is nearing completion.
