Somen Salad Sauce

Prep: 5 min Cuisine: Japanese

A savory and tangy dressing with soy, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and dashi broth that elevates salads with umami-rich flavors, perfect for light, refreshing dishes.

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Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup low-salt shoyu
  • 1/4 cup canola oil
  • 1/4 cup rice vinegar
  • 1/2 cup dashi-no-moto broth
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons sugar

Instructions

  1. Combine all the ingredients in a jar.
  2. Shake vigorously until well mixed.
  3. Use as a salad dressing.

Tips & Substitutions

For a smoother dressing, blend the ingredients instead of shaking. If you're looking for a gluten-free option, substitute low-salt shoyu with tamari. You can also adjust the sweetness by using less sugar or adding honey. For a spicy kick, consider mixing in a teaspoon of chili oil. This dressing is versatile and can be used for various salads beyond somen.

Serving Suggestions

This somen salad dressing is fantastic over chilled noodles, mixed greens, or as a dip for fresh vegetables. It pairs beautifully with a side of Cabbage Crunch for a refreshing meal. Drizzle it over grilled chicken or tofu for added flavor. For a complete meal, serve alongside a Strawberry Spritzer to complement the flavors.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Shake well before each use, as the ingredients may separate over time. This dressing can also be used as a marinade for grilled vegetables or proteins. Avoid reheating, as it is best served cold or at room temperature.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Somen Salad Sauce contains roughly 141 calories, with 3g protein, 3g carbohydrates, and 14g fat.

141 kcal 7% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 2.7g 5% DV
Total Fat 14.1g 18% DV
Carbs 2.7g 1% DV
Fiber 1.4g 5% DV
Sugar 0g

Electrolytes

Sodium 0.2mg
Potassium 68.9mg 1% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 0.5mcg
Calcium 21.2mg 2% DV
Iron 1mg 5% DV
Diet fit Keto-friendly Under 400 cal
Contains Sesame

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this dressing ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this dressing a few days in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator, and it will develop more flavor as it sits. Make sure to shake it well before using, as the ingredients may separate.

What can I use if I don't have dashi-no-moto?

If you don't have dashi-no-moto, you can substitute it with vegetable broth or a mix of water and soy sauce for a similar umami flavor. Alternatively, a homemade dashi with kombu and shiitake mushrooms can also work well.

Is this dressing suitable for vegan diets?

Yes, this somen salad dressing is suitable for vegan diets. All the ingredients are plant-based, making it a great choice for those looking for vegan recipes. Just ensure the shoyu or tamari used is also vegan-friendly.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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