Name: Edamame Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 lemon, juiced (about ¼ cup); 2 Tbsp olive oil; 1–2 tsp honey (optional); ½ tsp dried oregano; Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste; 12 oz shelled edamame (cooked or thawed); 1 cup Persian cucumbers, chopped; 1 cup red bell pepper, diced; 3 green onions, thinly sliced; 1 Tbsp fresh dill, chopped; 1 Tbsp flat-leaf parsley, chopped

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Short Description

This vibrant Edamame Salad is a refreshing blend of shelled edamame, crisp cucumbers, bell pepper, fresh herbs, and green onions, all tossed in a bright lemon-oregano vinaigrette. It’s a healthy, protein-packed salad that’s perfect for lunch, a side dish, or as part of a summer spread.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Plant-powered protein: Edamame provides a delicious protein boost, making this salad both filling and nutritious.
Bright and zesty: Lemon juice, olive oil, and oregano bring a refreshing Mediterranean twist.
Crunchy & colorful: Cucumbers, bell pepper, and green onions add texture and visual appeal.
Quick and easy: Minimal prep with big flavor—ready in under 10 minutes.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 lemon, juiced (about ¼ cup)
2 Tbsp olive oil
1–2 tsp honey (optional, to balance acidity)
½ tsp dried oregano
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
12 oz shelled edamame (cooked, fresh or thawed if frozen)
1 cup Persian cucumbers, chopped
1 cup red bell pepper, diced
3 green onions, thinly sliced
1 Tbsp fresh dill, chopped
1 Tbsp flat-leaf parsley, chopped

Directions

In a large salad bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, oregano, salt, pepper, and optional honey.
Add edamame, cucumbers, bell pepper, green onions, dill, and parsley.
Toss everything together until evenly coated in the vinaigrette.
Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more salt, pepper, or honey as desired.
Serve immediately or chill for up to an hour to enhance flavors.

Servings and Timing

Serves: 4–6 as a side dish
Prep time: 10 minutes
Total time: Approximately 10 minutes

Variations

Add grains: Mix in cooked quinoa or farro for extra heartiness.
Spice it up: Add chopped jalapeño or red pepper flakes for heat.
Dress it up: Stir in a spoonful of Greek yogurt or tahini for creaminess.
Cheese boost: Add crumbled feta or goat cheese for a tangy finish.
Herb twist: Swap or add basil, mint, or cilantro for a fresh flavor change.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To refresh: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and a drizzle of olive oil before serving to revive flavors.
Avoid sogginess: Drain any excess liquid before storing and refrigerating.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen edamame?

Yes—just thaw it first (rinse with warm water or microwave briefly), then drain before adding.

2. Do I need to cook edamame?

Use precooked or thawed shelled edamame. If raw, boil or steam for 5 minutes, then cool before using.

3. Is honey necessary?

Honey adds a subtle sweetness to balance the lemon. Skip it for a sharper, more tart salad.

4. Can I make this salad ahead?

Absolutely—prepare and refrigerate up to 2 days ahead. Before serving, refresh with extra lemon juice and herbs.

5. How do I keep the cucumber crisp?

Toss cucumbers in salt, drain, and pat dry before adding to prevent sogginess.

6. What can I serve this with?

Pairs well with grilled fish, chicken, wraps, or as part of a mezze board.

7. Is this gluten-free?

Yes—all ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

8. Can I double the recipe?

Sure—just adjust the dressing ingredients accordingly and toss thoroughly.

9. Can I add avocado?

Yes—add diced avocado just before serving for creamy texture.

10. What other beans work?

White beans or chickpeas can be substituted, though edamame offers the highest protein boost.

Conclusion

This Edamame Salad is a simple yet flavorful mix of crisp veggies, fresh herbs, and protein-rich edamame tossed in a zesty dressing. Quick to make and endlessly adaptable, it’s perfect for meal prep, healthy sides, or solo lunches. Enjoy every bright, crunchy bite!

Maggie