Name: Potsticker Salad (Dumpling Salad) Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 1 lb frozen gyoza dumplings (vegan); 1 lb heirloom tomatoes (mixed colors); 1 English cucumber or 4 Persian cucumbers; 5 scallions, thinly sliced; 1 red chili pepper (optional for heat); 1/2 cup basil leaves; 3 Tbsp Tamari (low sodium); 2 Tbsp balsamic vinegar; 2-3 tsp maple syrup; 1 Tbsp toasted sesame seeds for garnish or crispy fried onions; Garlic chili sauce; Optional Add Ins: thinly sliced cabbage, carrot, bean sprouts, edamame

Jump to Recipe

If you’ve ever wished for an ultra-satisfying dish that delivers the joy of juicy dumplings plus the bright freshness of an abundant salad, Potsticker Salad (Dumpling Salad) is about to become your new obsession. Imagine your favorite crispy-bottomed gyoza cozied up with sweet heirloom tomatoes, snappy cucumbers, and a punchy umami dressing, all crowned with fragrant basil and crunchy garnishes. Every bite is lively, colorful, and totally irresistible, making this salad a feast for your senses as much as your appetite.

Potsticker Salad (Dumpling Salad) Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

What’s magical about this Potsticker Salad (Dumpling Salad) is how just a few everyday ingredients layer together to create an epicurean adventure. Each one has a special role, bringing its flavor, texture, or pop of color to the show. Here’s what you’ll need and why you’ll love having them in the mix:

Frozen gyoza dumplings (vegan): These are the savory, chewy stars of the dish, and using frozen makes it weeknight-simple.
Heirloom tomatoes (mixed colors): Their vibrant sweetness and juicy bite add color and zest that brighten every serving.
English cucumber or Persian cucumbers: Crisp and cool, they provide a refreshing crunch that balances the dumplings.
Scallions (thinly sliced): The gentle onion zing brings fresh lift throughout the salad.
Red chili pepper (optional for heat): Adds a gentle tingle of heat—go as bold or as mild as you want.
Basil leaves: Torn fresh over the top, basil offers a fragrant burst that ties everything together.
Tamari (low sodium): Deep, savory, and gluten-free, perfect as the umami backbone of the dressing.
Balsamic vinegar: Sweet-tangy notes that give depth and intrigue to the salad’s dressing.
Maple syrup: Adds a touch of silky sweetness to balance the salty and tart flavors.
Toasted sesame seeds or crispy fried onions: For that irresistible finish—nutty or crunchy, take your pick!
Garlic chili sauce: Brings an optional punch of heat and depth for those who like it zesty.
Optional add-ins (shredded cabbage, carrots, bean sprouts, edamame): Feel free to add more fresh ingredients for extra color, texture, and nutrition!

How to Make Potsticker Salad (Dumpling Salad)

Step 1: Steam or Pan-Fry the Dumplings

Start by preparing the vegan gyoza according to package instructions. Steaming keeps them soft and delicate—perfect for this salad. If you prefer a bit of a crispy edge, pan-fry them in a bit of oil until golden before the last step. Once cooked, toss the dumplings gently in a large bowl with a teaspoon of sesame oil or a quick splash of water to keep them from sticking together.

Step 2: Whisk Up the Dressing

In a small bowl, blend together low-sodium tamari, balsamic vinegar, and maple syrup. This simple yet bold concoction delivers sweet, tangy, and salty notes in perfect harmony. Pour the dressing over your warm dumplings and carefully toss to coat, ensuring each gyoza gets a generous glaze.

Step 3: Prepare the Fresh Veggies

While the dumplings cool, start chopping: cut the heirloom tomatoes into welcoming wedges, thinly slice your cucumber, and slice up the scallions. If you love heat, slice a red chili pepper thinly (leave seeds in for kick, or out for less spice). Gather any optional add-ins now, like shredded carrots or bean sprouts, and get them salad-ready.

Step 4: Assemble the Potsticker Salad (Dumpling Salad)

Now comes the fun part: add the tomatoes, cucumbers, scallions, and chili pepper to the bowl of dumplings. Gently combine everything so the veggies stay crisp and the dumplings hold together. Don’t forget any extra add-ins you crave for even more goodness!

Step 5: Finish and Garnish

Tear fresh basil leaves over the salad for an aromatic lift, and sprinkle the surface with toasted sesame seeds or crispy onions for crunch. For a flavor upgrade and a pop of color, drizzle with garlic chili sauce as you serve. Enjoy your Potsticker Salad (Dumpling Salad) at room temperature, where all the flavors truly shine.

How to Serve Potsticker Salad (Dumpling Salad)

Garnishes

A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds or a shower of crispy fried onions adds a final flourish of texture and flavor. A dash of garlic chili sauce not only amplifies the color but also brings a tantalizing salty, spicy edge that’s as pretty as it is delicious.

Side Dishes

Since Potsticker Salad (Dumpling Salad) is naturally hearty, you can serve it alongside a simple miso soup, a bowl of steamed rice, or an Asian-style slaw for a beautiful, cohesive meal. Even a chilled green tea or light sparkling drink will fit the vibe perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve your salad family-style on a platter for a vibrant centerpiece, or arrange individual bowls for an elegant starter. If you’re feeling playful, you can even thread the dumplings onto skewers and serve draped over beds of veggies for a fun party twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers (lucky you!), store the salad in an airtight container in the fridge. It’ll keep well for up to two days—just know that the veggies may lose some crunch, but the flavors meld beautifully.

Freezing

While you can freeze extra cooked dumplings on their own, it’s best not to freeze the assembled Potsticker Salad (Dumpling Salad), as the fresh veggies and herbs won’t hold up. Instead, prep and freeze just the dumplings, then make the salad fresh when you’re ready to enjoy.

Reheating

For leftover dumplings, a quick steam or gentle sauté in a nonstick skillet will revive their texture. Reheat only the dumplings—let the veggies and dressing stay cool, then toss everything together just before serving for the best results.

FAQs

Can I use other types of dumplings in this salad?

Absolutely! While vegan gyoza are perfect for Potsticker Salad (Dumpling Salad), feel free to experiment with pork, chicken, or shrimp dumplings if you prefer. Just steam or pan-fry them the same way.

What’s the best way to keep the dumplings from getting soggy?

Make sure to gently toss the dressing with the dumplings right when you’re ready to assemble the salad. If making ahead, keep dressing and dumplings separate until just before serving for peak freshness.

Is there a gluten-free option?

Many brands now offer gluten-free gyoza wrappers, and tamari is naturally gluten-free, so you can absolutely make a gluten-free Potsticker Salad (Dumpling Salad) by selecting the right products.

What can I substitute for basil?

If basil isn’t your thing, try substituting with cilantro, mint, or a combination of fresh herbs to match your personal taste and what’s in season.

Can I make Potsticker Salad (Dumpling Salad) ahead of time for parties?

You sure can! For best results, cook the dumplings and prep the veggies earlier in the day, but wait to toss with dressing and garnish until just before serving so everything stays crisp and vibrant.

Final Thoughts

There’s something undeniably delightful about Potsticker Salad (Dumpling Salad)—it’s a fresh spin on comfort food that’s playful yet elegant, and totally mouthwatering. I hope you’ll give this crave-worthy creation a try soon and add your own personal twist. Happy cooking, my friend!

Potsticker Salad (Dumpling Salad) Recipe

★★★★★

5.3 from 27 reviews

Author: Mariam
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

A delightful and flavorful Potsticker Salad recipe that combines the goodness of gyoza dumplings with fresh vegetables and a tangy dressing, topped with sesame seeds for added crunch. Perfect for a light and refreshing meal.

Instructions

Steam the dumplings: Cook the gyoza dumplings according to package instructions. Toss with sesame oil in a bowl.
Prepare the dressing: Combine Tamari, balsamic vinegar, and maple syrup. Pour over the dumplings and mix well.
Assemble the salad: Cut tomatoes, cucumber, and scallions. Add to the bowl with dumplings, along with chili pepper. Mix gently.
Final touches: Tear basil leaves, sprinkle sesame seeds or fried onions on top. Serve at room temperature.
Optional: Customize with additional veggies and serve with garlic chili sauce.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Salad
Method: Steam, Pan-Fry
Cuisine: Asian