If you’re looking for a salad that’s not only packed with flavor but also fits perfectly into your macro-friendly lifestyle, then look no further than this vibrant and crunchy Macro Friendly Sesame Ginger Salad. This salad combines the crispness of cabbage and carrots with the sweetness of mandarin oranges and the crunch of toasted almonds, making it a delightful addition to any meal. It’s light yet satisfying, and it comes together quickly, making it the perfect option for lunch or dinner. Plus, it’s loaded with fresh ingredients that will make your taste buds sing!

Why It’s My Go-To

This Macro Friendly Sesame Ginger Salad has quickly become one of my favorite recipes for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly versatile. You can serve it as a side dish, enjoy it on its own, or even add protein for a more filling meal. The combination of textures—from the crunchy cabbage and carrots to the crunchy sesame rice crackers—keeps every bite interesting. Secondly, it’s a stress-free recipe that requires minimal cooking skills, making it accessible for anyone looking to maintain a healthy diet without spending hours in the kitchen. Lastly, it’s a nutrient-packed dish that aligns perfectly with my macros, providing a great balance of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins.

Ingredient Checklist

To make this Macro Friendly Sesame Ginger Salad, gather the following ingredients:

16 oz shredded cabbage and carrots (a bag of coleslaw works great)
4 green onions, chopped
6 tablespoons toasted almonds
1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
1/2 cup chopped cilantro
15 oz sugar-free mandarin oranges, drained well (I used Del Monte)
9 sesame rice crackers, crushed (I used Simply Organic)
1/2 cup toasted sesame ginger dressing (I used Bolthouse)

Gear Checklist

Before you get started, make sure you have the following kitchen tools on hand:

Large mixing bowl – for combining all your salad ingredients.
Cutting board and knife – to chop the green onions and cilantro.
Measuring cups and spoons – to ensure ingredient accuracy.
Serving spoon – for easy serving of the salad.

Cook Macro Friendly Sesame Ginger Salad Like This

Step 1: Prepare the Base

In a large mixing bowl, combine the 16 oz of shredded cabbage and carrots. This will serve as the crunchy base of your salad.

Step 2: Add Fresh Ingredients

Chop the 4 green onions and add them to the bowl along with the 1/2 cup of chopped cilantro. These herbs will add a fresh and zesty flavor to your salad.

Step 3: Incorporate the Crunch

Next, sprinkle in the 6 tablespoons of toasted almonds and the 1 tablespoon of toasted sesame seeds. These ingredients will add a delightful crunch and a nutty flavor.

Step 4: Incorporate Sweetness

Add the 15 oz of drained sugar-free mandarin oranges to the salad. Their sweetness will balance the crunchy veggies perfectly.

Step 5: Mix in the Crackers

Crush the 9 sesame rice crackers and sprinkle them over the salad. This will add an additional layer of crunch and flavor.

Step 6: Dress the Salad

Finally, pour the 1/2 cup of toasted sesame ginger dressing over the entire salad mixture. Use a serving spoon to toss everything together gently, ensuring that all ingredients are well coated with the dressing.

Step 7: Serve Immediately or Chill

You can serve the salad immediately or let it chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully!

Ingredient Swaps & Substitutions

If you’re missing some ingredients or want to tailor the salad to your taste, consider these swaps:

Use red cabbage instead of green for a pop of color.
Swap toasted almonds for walnuts or sunflower seeds for a different crunch.
Substitute the sugar-free mandarin oranges with fresh orange segments for a more natural sweetness.
If you don’t have sesame rice crackers, try using chow mein noodles or even crispy wonton strips.

Troubles You Can Avoid

To ensure your Macro Friendly Sesame Ginger Salad turns out perfect:

Make sure to drain the mandarin oranges well; excess liquid can make your salad soggy.
Don’t skip the chilling step if you have time; it enhances the flavors.
Be careful not to over-mix the salad after adding the dressing to maintain the crunch of the ingredients.

Make Ahead Like a Pro

Want to prep this salad for the week? Here’s how to make ahead like a pro:

Chop and combine all the vegetables and herbs, but keep the dressing and crunchy elements separate until just before serving.
Store the prepped salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Keep the crushed rice crackers and almonds in a separate container to maintain their crunch.

Quick Questions

Can I make this salad vegan?

Absolutely! This Macro Friendly Sesame Ginger Salad is already vegan-friendly with its plant-based ingredients. Just ensure that your dressing is also vegan.

How long can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just remember that the crunchiness of the salad may diminish over time.

Is this salad gluten-free?

To make this salad gluten-free, simply swap the sesame rice crackers for a gluten-free alternative, such as gluten-free crispy rice or nuts.

Can I add protein to this salad?

Yes! Grilled chicken, tofu, or chickpeas would be fantastic additions to make it a complete meal. Just be mindful of how it affects the macro balance!

Serve & Enjoy

Now that you’ve prepared your Macro Friendly Sesame Ginger Salad, it’s time to serve it up! This salad is perfect on its own or as a side dish for grilled proteins. The combination of flavors and textures is sure to impress anyone at your table. Enjoy the refreshing taste and the knowledge that you’re fueling your body with wholesome ingredients!

This Macro Friendly Sesame Ginger Salad is a delightful way to eat healthy without sacrificing flavor. It’s colorful, nutritious, and easy to make, making it a great addition to your meal rotation. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or looking for a fresh side for your dinner, this salad checks all the boxes. Dive in and enjoy the crunch!