As I breezed through the local market, my senses were ignited by vibrant displays of fresh ingredients that seemed to whisper possibilities. The delicate scent of fresh salmon mingled with the refreshing crunch of cucumber and daikon, and I couldn’t help but think of my favorite celebratory dish—Yee Sang, the traditional prosperity toss salad that symbolizes abundance and good fortune.
This delightful sashimi salad is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re celebrating a significant event or simply looking to break free from mundane fast food routines. The combination of succulent fish, zesty pomelo, and crispy wontons creates a symphony of textures and flavors that will wow your taste buds.
What I love most is how effortlessly adaptable this dish is. You can customize it to suit your preferences, making it a versatile recipe for both novice cooks and culinary enthusiasts alike. So let’s dive into crafting this beautiful, healthy salad that’s not just a feast for your palate, but also for your eyes!
Why is Yee Sang so special?
Vibrant colors: The visual appeal of this Yee Sang is irresistible, featuring a stunning array of fresh veggies and crispy wontons that make it a centerpiece on any table.
Bursting flavors: Each bite combines the zestiness of pomelo with savory salmon, creating a deliciously harmonious dish.
Crispy texture: With the addition of crunchy wontons, you’ll love the delightful contrast between the fresh ingredients and the satisfying crunch.
Perfect for sharing: This salad encourages communal eating, making it a fantastic choice for gatherings and celebrations.
Healthy choice: Loaded with nutritious ingredients, this dish not only tantalizes your taste buds but also nourishes your body, making it a guilt-free indulgence.
Yee Sang Ingredients
A colorful blend for prosperity!
For the Salad
- Vegetable oil – This is used to fry the wonton wrappers to a perfect crisp.
- Wonton wrappers – Essential for adding that delightful crunch to your Yee Sang.
- English cucumber – Choose this for its mild flavor and refreshing crunch.
- Medium carrot – Adds a sweet earthiness and vibrant color to the salad.
- Daikon radish – Provides a peppery bite and plays well with the other flavors.
- Lettuce – Use crispy varieties like butter or romaine for added freshness.
- Salmon (sashimi-grade) – Ensure you pick the freshest for a melt-in-your-mouth experience.
- Pomelo – Its unique sweetness brightens the dish and adds a tropical flair.
- Pickled ginger – A tangy accent that complements the freshness of the salmon.
For the Dressing
- Plum sauce – Adds a sweet and tangy flavor that ties the salad together.
- Hoisin sauce – This provides a rich depth of flavor to enhance the whole dish.
For the Toppings
- Roasted peanuts – A nutty crunch that elevates the overall texture of the Yee Sang.
- Roasted sesame seeds – Sprinkle these for a hint of nuttiness and beautiful garnish.
How to Make Yee Sang
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Warm the oil: In a small skillet, pour a few tablespoons of vegetable oil to create a layer about ¼ inch (6mm) deep. Heat it over medium until shimmering for crispy wontons.
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Fry the wontons: Carefully add a few strips of wonton wrappers into the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry until they turn golden brown and crispy, about 1-2 minutes.
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Drain and cool: Using a slotted spoon, remove the cooked wontons from the oil and let them drain on kitchen paper or a paper towel. This keeps them crispy!
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Prepare the vegetables: Slice the cucumber, carrot, and daikon radish into 2-inch (5cm) long chunks and then julienne them into thin strips. They should be colorful and crunchy!
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Cut the salmon and pomelo: Slice the sashimi-grade salmon into thin strips, and break the pomelo into bite-size chunks. Each piece adds texture and flavor to your salad.
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Assemble the salad: On a large plate, arrange little stacks of the carrot, cucumber, radish, lettuce, and pomelo in an eye-catching presentation.
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Add salmon and wontons: Place the salmon strips and crispy wonton strips on top of the vegetable stacks. Add pickled ginger right in the center for that extra zing!
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Mix the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the plum and hoisin sauces until well combined. This will add a luscious flavor to your salad.
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Complete the dish: Drizzle the mixed sauce over the salad. Traditionally, sprinkle the peanuts and sesame seeds on top before tossing everything together for a delightful crunch.
Optional: Garnish with additional fresh herbs for an aromatic touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Yee Sang ingredients are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the chopped vegetables (cucumber, carrot, daikon, and lettuce) up to 3 days in advance, storing them in airtight containers to maintain their freshness and crispness. The wonton wrappers can be fried and kept in an airtight container for up to 24 hours to retain their crunch. When you’re ready to serve, simply slice the sashimi-grade salmon and break the pomelo into pieces, then assemble everything on a plate. Finish by drizzling the sauce and sprinkling the peanuts and sesame seeds just before serving for that fresh, vibrant touch! With these make-ahead tips, you’ll save time and enjoy a delightful, hassle-free dish any busy weeknight.
How to Store and Freeze Yee Sang
Fridge: Store any leftover Yee Sang in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the crispy wontons separate to maintain their crunch.
Freezer: It’s best not to freeze Yee Sang, as freezing the fresh vegetables and salmon can affect their texture and quality.
Reheating: If you have leftover dressing, refrigerate it separately and toss it with the salad right before serving. Enjoy fresh for the best taste!
What to Serve with Sashimi Salad?
Elevate your meal with delightful sides that enhance the vibrant charm of this fresh salad.
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Coconut Rice: The creamy richness adds a tropical touch, perfectly complementing the zingy freshness of the salad.
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Sesame Ginger Dressing: A light drizzle of this dressing can enhance flavors and bring a refreshing kick to each bite.
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Edamame Beans: Their subtle sweetness and earthy flavor provide a delightful contrast to the savory elements of the dish.
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Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup offers a comforting contrast, harmonizing with the salad’s freshness.
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Sushi Rolls: Opt for light vegetable or fish sushi rolls to maintain a similar flavor profile without overpowering the salad.
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Chilled Sake: Serve with this refreshing Japanese rice wine to elevate your culinary experience and perfectly complement the dish’s textures.
Each of these pairings beautifully enhances the essence of your Sashimi Salad, creating a memorable dining experience.
Helpful Tricks for Yee Sang
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Perfectly Crispy Wontons: Fry the wonton strips in batches to ensure they cook evenly and get crisp without burning.
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Fresh Ingredients Matter: Opt for the freshest sashimi-grade salmon and ripe pomelo to elevate the flavor profile of your Yee Sang.
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Avoid Overcooking: Keep a close watch while frying wontons; they can turn from perfect to burnt in mere seconds if left unattended.
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Cutting Techniques: Use a sharp knife for julienning vegetables to create uniform pieces that are visually appealing and easy to eat.
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Dressing Balance: Adjust the plum and hoisin sauce mix to your taste preferences; a little extra sauce can enhance the flavors while avoiding heaviness.
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Visual Appeal: Arrange the salad layers artfully to enhance the vibrant look of the Yee Sang, making it a true feast for the eyes and the palate!
Yee Sang Variations
Feel free to make this Yee Sang your own with these delightful twists that excite your palate and inspire creativity!
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Vegetarian Delight: Substitute sashimi-grade salmon with marinated tofu or tempeh for a plant-based option. The tofu will absorb the flavors of the dressing beautifully.
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Add Heat: Toss in some sliced fresh chili or a sprinkle of chili flakes for a spicy kick that beautifully complements the fresh ingredients. Vibrant heat can elevate your dish to new heights!
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Citrus Boost: Swap pomelo for juicy grapefruit or orange segments to introduce a sweet, zesty twist. These fruits will not only brighten the dish but also enhance the overall flavor profile.
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Crunchy Alternative: Use fried shallots or crispy seaweed instead of roasted peanuts for a unique crunch and a burst of umami flavor. They add a delightful textural contrast while remaining deliciously light.
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Nut-Free Version: Replace peanuts with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for those with nut allergies, providing a similar crunch with a different nutty flavor.
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Extra Greens: Incorporate fresh herbs like cilantro or mint for an aromatic lift, enhancing the freshness of your Yee Sang. A handful can work wonders on the flavor profile!
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Dressing Variations: Experiment with adding a splash of soy sauce or rice vinegar to the dressing for a tangy twist that deepens the flavor complexity. It’s all about finding the right balance!
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Fruit Fusion: Mix in seasonal fruits like mango or kiwi for a tropical flair that brightens the salad visually and flavorfully. These fruits can also enhance the texture with their juicy bite.
Yee Sang Prosperity Toss Salad Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best ingredients for my Yee Sang?
Absolutely! For the freshest results, always select sashimi-grade salmon that appears moist and vibrant with no off smell. For vegetables, look for cucumbers that are firm with no blemishes, carrots that are bright orange, and daikon radishes that are crisp. A ripe pomelo should feel heavy for its size and have a sweet aroma.
How long can I store leftover Yee Sang in the fridge?
You can store leftover Yee Sang in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. It’s vital to keep the crispy wontons separate to maintain their delightful crunchiness. When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, just reassemble everything and add the dressing for freshness!
Can I freeze my Yee Sang?
I don’t recommend freezing Yee Sang since the texture of the fresh vegetables and sashimi-grade salmon can significantly deteriorate once thawed. The crispy wontons will also lose their crunch. It’s best to enjoy this salad fresh, so prepare only what you’ll eat in a single sitting.
What should I do if my wonton wrappers aren’t crispy?
Very! If your wonton wrappers are not crispy, they might not have been fried long enough or the oil wasn’t hot enough. To resolve this, increase the heat slightly and fry in smaller batches to avoid overcrowding. Each wrapper should cook for about 1-2 minutes until golden brown. If they’re already fried but lost their crunch, you can try re-heating them briefly in the oven for a few minutes.
Can I adapt this recipe for dietary needs?
Absolutely! For a vegetarian option, you can swap out the sashimi-grade salmon for marinated tofu or your favorite plant-based protein. Additionally, ensure that any sauces used are gluten-free if there are sensitivities. Just be sure to balance the flavors so that they remain vibrant and delicious!
Colorful Yee Sang Prosperity Toss Salad for New Beginnings
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Warm the oil in a small skillet over medium heat until shimmering.
- Carefully fry wonton strips until golden brown, about 1-2 minutes.
- Drain cooked wontons on paper towels to keep them crispy.
- Slice the cucumber, carrot, and daikon radish into thin strips.
- Slice salmon and break pomelo into bite-sized chunks.
- On a large plate, arrange stacks of vegetables for presentation.
- Top with salmon strips, crispy wontons, and pickled ginger.
- Whisk together plum and hoisin sauces in a small bowl.
- Drizzle sauce over the salad and sprinkle with peanuts and sesame seeds.