Potsticker Salad Recipe

Introduction

Potsticker Salad combines the crispy, savory delight of pan-seared dumplings with the fresh, vibrant crunch of a salad. Golden-brown potstickers sit atop a bed of crisp greens, colorful vegetables, and a tangy, flavorful dressing. Whether for a quick lunch, a light dinner, or a unique appetizer, this dish brings together the best of both worlds—comforting dumplings and refreshing salad—in one irresistible bite.

I sear the potstickers until they turn golden and crispy, their aroma filling the kitchen with warmth. While they cook, I toss together a medley of crisp lettuce, shredded carrots, and crunchy cabbage. The dressing, a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and savory, coats every bite. As I plate the dish, the contrast of textures and flavors comes to life, making every forkful satisfying and delicious.

What makes this recipe special is its versatility. I can add sliced avocado for creaminess, sprinkle toasted sesame seeds for crunch, or drizzle extra chili oil for a spicy kick. Potsticker Salad isn’t just a meal—it’s an experience, blending bold flavors and fresh ingredients into one unforgettable dish.

Perfect for:

  • A quick and satisfying lunch
  • A light yet flavorful dinner
  • A unique way to enjoy potstickers
  • Meal prepping for busy days
  • A refreshing dish for warm weather

Why You will Love The Potsticker Salad Recipe

You’ll love this Potsticker Salad because:

  • It offers the best of both worlds – Enjoy the perfect contrast of crispy, golden-brown potstickers with fresh, crunchy greens in one delicious dish. The dumplings bring a satisfying chew, while the salad adds lightness and freshness.
  • It’s quick and easy – With minimal prep and just a few simple steps, this salad is ready in under 20 minutes. Whether you’re using store-bought or homemade potstickers, it’s a stress-free meal for busy days.
  • It’s packed with flavor – A tangy sesame-ginger dressing infuses the salad with bold, umami-rich flavors. The combination of soy sauce, vinegar, and toasted sesame oil complements the dumplings perfectly.
  • It’s customizable – Choose your favorite dumplings—chicken, pork, shrimp, or veggie—to match your taste preferences. You can also swap out greens, add shredded cabbage for extra crunch, or toss in nuts and seeds for texture.
  • It makes a balanced meal – This salad provides a satisfying mix of protein from the potstickers, fiber from the greens, and healthy fats from the dressing. It’s a well-rounded dish that keeps you full without feeling heavy.
  • It’s perfect for any occasion – Whether you need a quick lunch, a light dinner, or a crowd-pleasing dish for a gathering, this potsticker salad delivers on taste and convenience. Serve it warm or cold, and enjoy it any time of year!

Preparation Time

  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Preparation Time: 10 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 10 minutes
  • Servings: 2–3
  • Calories per serving: Approximately 350
  • Key Nutrients: Protein: 15g, Fiber: 5g, Healthy Fats: 10g

Ingredients

Salad Base:

  • 10 frozen potstickers (chicken, pork, or vegetable)
  • 4 cups mixed greens (romaine, spinach, or arugula)
  • 1 cup shredded cabbage (red or green)
  • 1 medium carrot, julienned
  • ½ cup cucumber, sliced
  • ¼ cup green onions, chopped
  • ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped

Dressing:

  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
  • ½ teaspoon grated ginger
  • 1 teaspoon sriracha (optional)

Toppings:

  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
  • ¼ cup crushed peanuts or almonds
  • ¼ avocado, sliced (optional)

Ingredient Highlights

  • Potstickers: Provide a crispy, savory contrast to the fresh greens.
  • Cabbage & Carrots: Add crunch and natural sweetness.
  • Sesame-Ginger Dressing: Brings bold, tangy flavor.
  • Green Onions & Cilantro: Enhance freshness and depth.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Potstickers:

  1. Heat a Pan: Add a tablespoon of oil to a skillet over medium heat.
  2. Cook the Potstickers: Arrange them in the pan, flat side down. Cook for 2–3 minutes until golden brown.
  3. Steam to Finish: Pour in ¼ cup of water, cover, and let the dumplings steam for another 5 minutes. Remove the lid and cook for another 1–2 minutes to crisp up the bottoms.

Prepare the Salad:

  1. Chop the Vegetables: While the potstickers cook, slice the cucumber, chop the green onions, and julienne the carrots.
  2. Assemble the Base: In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cabbage, carrots, cucumber, green onions, and cilantro.

Make the Dressing:

  1. Whisk the Ingredients: In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey, ginger, and sriracha.

Assemble the Salad:

  1. Add the Potstickers: Place the crispy potstickers on top of the salad.
  2. Drizzle with Dressing: Pour the sesame-ginger dressing evenly over the bowl.
  3. Garnish: Sprinkle with sesame seeds, crushed peanuts, and avocado slices.

Serve & Enjoy:

  1. Toss Lightly or Serve as Is: Mix everything together or enjoy with potstickers on top.

How to Serve the Potsticker Salad Recipe

Enjoy Potsticker Salad in different ways:

  • With Extra Dressing: Serve with a side of soy sauce or chili oil.
  • As a Meal Prep Option: Store dressing separately and assemble when ready.
  • With a Side of Rice: Pair with brown or jasmine rice for extra carbs.
  • As a Wrap: Fill lettuce leaves with salad and chopped potstickers for a fun twist.

Additional Tips for Potsticker Salad Recipe

  • Choose Your Favorite Potstickers: Use any variety, from vegetable to shrimp or pork.
  • Crisp Up the Potstickers More: Let them cook uncovered for an extra minute.
  • Make it Gluten-Free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce.
  • Add More Protein: Toss in grilled chicken, tofu, or edamame.
  • Use Pre-Shredded Veggies: Save time with pre-cut cabbage and carrots.

Recipe Variations for Potsticker Salad Recipe

  • Spicy Kick – If you love heat, sprinkle red pepper flakes over the salad or drizzle it with chili oil for an extra fiery touch. You can also mix sriracha, sambal oelek, or even a bit of wasabi into the dressing for a bolder spice. For a smoky depth, try adding a dash of chipotle powder or smoked paprika.
  • Thai-Inspired – Swap out the sesame-ginger dressing for a creamy peanut sauce made with peanut butter, lime juice, soy sauce, and a touch of honey. Garnish with crushed peanuts and fresh cilantro for authentic Thai flavors. For an extra pop of sweetness and crunch, toss in shredded mango or papaya.
  • Korean Flavor – Give your salad a bold Korean twist by mixing gochujang (Korean chili paste) into the dressing instead of sriracha. Add kimchi for extra tang and spice, and top with sesame seeds for crunch. For a heartier meal, serve with a soft-boiled egg or a sprinkle of shredded seaweed.
  • Vietnamese Style – Brighten up the salad with fresh mint, Thai basil, and a squeeze of lime juice. Add shredded carrots, cucumbers, and thinly sliced red onion for extra crunch. Drizzle with a light nuoc cham (Vietnamese dipping sauce) dressing for a tangy, slightly sweet finish. For added protein, toss in grilled shrimp or tofu.
  • Japanese-Inspired – Use a miso-ginger dressing to give your salad a rich umami depth. Top with thinly sliced nori, sesame seeds, and a sprinkle of furikake for extra flavor. Add edamame or shredded daikon for texture. For a sushi-inspired twist, toss in avocado and a drizzle of wasabi mayo.
  • Low-Carb Option – Skip the potstickers and use grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu instead while keeping the flavorful dressing and fresh veggies intact.

Storage and Reheating for Potsticker Salad Recipe

  • Refrigerate – To keep the salad fresh, store the greens and potstickers separately in airtight containers. The salad will stay crisp for up to 3 days, while the potstickers maintain their best texture when stored for up to 3 days as well. For optimal freshness, store the dressing separately and add it just before serving.
  • Reheat Potstickers – For the best texture, reheat potstickers in a skillet over medium heat for 3–4 minutes until crispy. You can also warm them in an air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 4–5 minutes. If using a microwave, heat them for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, but note that they may lose some crispiness.
  • Dressing Storage – Keep the dressing in a sealed jar or airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Before using, give it a good shake or stir to re-emulsify the ingredients. If the dressing thickens too much, add a splash of water or vinegar to loosen it up.
  • Meal Prep Tip – If preparing the salad in advance, layer sturdier ingredients like cabbage, carrots, or cucumbers at the bottom of the container and place delicate greens on top to prevent wilting. Keep potstickers and dressing separate until ready to serve for the best texture and flavor.

Special Equipment for Potsticker Salad Recipe

  • Skillet with Lid: For steaming and crisping potstickers.
  • Mixing Bowls: For assembling salad and dressing.
  • Whisk or Fork: For mixing the dressing.

FAQ Section of Potsticker Salad Recipe

Can I use homemade potstickers?
Yes! Just cook them the same way and use them fresh.

What’s the best type of lettuce for this salad?
Romaine, spinach, or mixed greens work best.

How do I keep the potstickers crispy?
Serve immediately and avoid tossing them directly in dressing.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! Store the dressing separately and add potstickers just before eating.

Print

Potsticker Salad Recipe

  • Author: Alivia
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 2-3 1x

Ingredients

Scale

Salad Base:

  • 10 frozen potstickers (chicken, pork, or vegetable)
  • 4 cups mixed greens (romaine, spinach, or arugula)
  • 1 cup shredded cabbage (red or green)
  • 1 medium carrot, julienned
  • ½ cup cucumber, sliced
  • ¼ cup green onions, chopped
  • ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped

Dressing:

  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
  • ½ teaspoon grated ginger
  • 1 teaspoon sriracha (optional)

Toppings:

  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
  • ¼ cup crushed peanuts or almonds
  • ¼ avocado, sliced (optional)

Instructions

Cook the Potstickers:

  1. Heat a Pan: Add a tablespoon of oil to a skillet over medium heat.
  2. Cook the Potstickers: Arrange them in the pan, flat side down. Cook for 2–3 minutes until golden brown.
  3. Steam to Finish: Pour in ¼ cup of water, cover, and let the dumplings steam for another 5 minutes. Remove the lid and cook for another 1–2 minutes to crisp up the bottoms.

Prepare the Salad:

  1. Chop the Vegetables: While the potstickers cook, slice the cucumber, chop the green onions, and julienne the carrots.
  2. Assemble the Base: In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cabbage, carrots, cucumber, green onions, and cilantro.

Make the Dressing:

  1. Whisk the Ingredients: In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey, ginger, and sriracha.

Assemble the Salad:

  1. Add the Potstickers: Place the crispy potstickers on top of the salad.
  2. Drizzle with Dressing: Pour the sesame-ginger dressing evenly over the bowl.
  3. Garnish: Sprinkle with sesame seeds, crushed peanuts, and avocado slices.

Serve & Enjoy:

  1. Toss Lightly or Serve as Is: Mix everything together or enjoy with potstickers on top.

Nutrition

  • Calories: 350 kcal
  • Fat: 10g
  • Fiber: 5g
  • Protein: 15g

Did you make this recipe?

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Conclusion of Potsticker Salad Recipe

Whip up Potsticker Salad and enjoy a fresh and flavorful dish that combines the best of crispy dumplings with a vibrant, crunchy salad. Tossed with a tangy dressing, this recipe balances savory, sweet, and umami flavors for a satisfying meal or appetizer. It’s a perfect fusion of textures and tastes that will delight both potsticker lovers and salad enthusiasts.

Get creative by customizing this salad with your favorite greens, extra veggies, or a spicy kick for added depth. Enjoy it as is or drizzle with extra sauce for an extra indulgent bite.

Make a bowl today, fill your kitchen with its irresistible aroma, and share the joy. Snap a photo of your masterpiece and share it on Instagram—tag me so we can celebrate your cooking success. Happy eating!