Imagine a salad so simple yet so extraordinary that it transports you straight to the elegant kitchens of world-renowned chef Nobu Matsuhisa. This Japanese-inspired spinach salad is not just a side dish—it's a culinary experience that marries the delicate freshness of crisp spinach with the rich, umami-packed dressing that has made Nobu a global culinary icon. In just 10 minutes, you'll create a restaurant-quality dish that will make your dinner guests wonder if you've secretly trained in a high-end Japanese kitchen.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 10 mins
Cuisine: Japanese
Serves: 2 servings
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh spinach
- 1/4 cup sesame seeds, toasted
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Carefully wash the fresh spinach leaves under cold running water, ensuring all dirt and debris are removed. Gently pat dry using clean paper towels or a salad spinner.
- Place a dry skillet over medium heat. Add sesame seeds and toast them, constantly stirring, until they turn light golden brown and release a nutty aroma. This should take approximately 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.
- In a small mixing bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and sugar until the sugar completely dissolves, creating a smooth, well-integrated dressing.
- Arrange the clean, dry spinach leaves on a serving platter or in a large salad bowl, creating an even, attractive base.
- Drizzle the prepared dressing evenly over the spinach leaves, ensuring all leaves are lightly coated.
- Sprinkle the toasted sesame seeds generously over the dressed spinach.
- Season with a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Gently toss the salad to ensure even distribution of dressing and sesame seeds.
- Serve immediately at room temperature to preserve the fresh texture of the spinach and the crunch of the toasted sesame seeds.
Tips
- Spinach Selection: Choose the freshest, most vibrant spinach leaves possible. Organic, locally sourced spinach will elevate the entire dish.
- Sesame Seed Toasting: Watch your sesame seeds like a hawk! They can burn quickly. Keep them moving in the pan and remove from heat the moment they turn golden to prevent bitterness.
- Dressing Technique: Whisk the dressing ingredients thoroughly to ensure the sugar completely dissolves, creating a smooth, well-integrated flavor profile.
- Serve Immediately: This salad is best enjoyed right after preparation. The crisp spinach and warm, toasted sesame seeds create a textural symphony that diminishes if left sitting too long.
- Temperature Matters: Serve at room temperature to maintain the spinach's fresh texture and allow the flavors to fully develop.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 110kcal
Carbohydrates: 6g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
