7 Asian-Inspired Salads That Taste Like a Vacation

Written by Jessica Munoz in International Cuisine Last Updated November 22, 2025

When we think of summer vacations, our minds often drift to sun-kissed beaches, bustling street markets, and the tantalizing aromas of exotic cuisines. Asian-inspired salads uniquely capture these experiences, combining fresh ingredients with bold flavors, creating dishes that are both refreshing and satisfying. Whether you’re seeking a light lunch, a vibrant side dish, or a hearty main course, these salads are perfect for any occasion. With ingredients ranging from crisp vegetables and fragrant herbs to juicy fruits and savory proteins, you can create a delightful meal that feels like a mini getaway.

In this article, we’ll explore seven Asian-inspired salads that not only taste amazing but also celebrate the diverse culinary traditions found across Asia. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to dive into a world of flavor!

1. Thai Green Papaya Salad (Som Tum)

Thai Green Papaya Salad, known as Som Tum, is a perfect representation of Thai cuisine’s vibrant flavors and textures. This salad is a delightful mix of shredded unripe papaya, crunchy green beans, tomatoes, and roasted peanuts, all tossed in a tangy dressing made from lime juice, fish sauce, and palm sugar.

  • Ingredients:
    • 2 cups shredded green papaya
    • 1 cup green beans, cut into 2-inch pieces
    • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
    • 1/4 cup roasted peanuts, crushed
    • 2 tablespoons fish sauce
    • 2 tablespoons lime juice
    • 1 tablespoon palm sugar
    • 1-2 Thai bird chilies (optional)
  • Instructions:
    1. In a large bowl, combine shredded papaya, green beans, and cherry tomatoes.
    2. In a separate bowl, mix fish sauce, lime juice, palm sugar, and crushed chilies to create the dressing.
    3. Toss the salad with the dressing and sprinkle crushed peanuts on top before serving.

2. Vietnamese Chicken Salad (Gỏi Gà)

Vietnamese Chicken Salad, or Gỏi Gà, is a refreshing dish that balances the flavors of tender chicken, fresh herbs, and crisp vegetables. This salad is typically dressed with a sweet and tangy nuoc cham sauce, making it a delightful choice for those hot summer days.

  • Ingredients:
    • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
    • 1 cup cabbage, thinly sliced
    • 1 cup carrots, julienned
    • 1/2 cup mint leaves
    • 1/2 cup cilantro leaves
    • 2 tablespoons fish sauce
    • 1 tablespoon lime juice
    • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • Instructions:
    1. In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, cabbage, carrots, mint, and cilantro.
    2. In a separate bowl, whisk together fish sauce, lime juice, and sugar until dissolved.
    3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss well before serving.

3. Japanese Cucumber Salad (Sunomono)

Japanese Cucumber Salad, or Sunomono, is a light and refreshing dish perfect for any meal. This salad features thinly sliced cucumbers marinated in a sweet vinegar dressing, often garnished with sesame seeds, making it a simple yet delicious addition to your culinary repertoire.

  • Ingredients:
    • 2 cucumbers, thinly sliced
    • 1/4 cup rice vinegar
    • 1 tablespoon sugar
    • 1/2 teaspoon salt
    • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds, toasted
  • Instructions:
    1. In a bowl, combine rice vinegar, sugar, and salt, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
    2. Add sliced cucumbers and mix well to coat.
    3. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes before serving, garnished with toasted sesame seeds.

4. Korean Spicy Cucumber Salad (Oi Muchim)

Korean Spicy Cucumber Salad, or Oi Muchim, is a vibrant and zesty side dish that complements any meal. This salad is a perfect balance of spicy, sweet, and tangy flavors, featuring fresh cucumbers tossed in a chili pepper sauce, sesame oil, and vinegar.

  • Ingredients:
    • 2 cucumbers, thinly sliced
    • 1 tablespoon Korean red pepper flakes (gochugaru)
    • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
    • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
    • 1 teaspoon sugar
    • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
  • Instructions:
    1. In a large bowl, combine cucumbers, gochugaru, sesame oil, rice vinegar, and sugar.
    2. Toss until the cucumbers are well coated.
    3. Garnish with sesame seeds and serve immediately or chill for 30 minutes for enhanced flavors.

 

5. Chinese Chicken Salad

Chinese Chicken Salad is a colorful and satisfying dish that combines tender chicken with a variety of crunchy vegetables. This salad often features a sesame-based dressing that adds a nutty flavor, making it a popular choice for lunch or dinner. The combination of textures and flavors makes this salad a delightful choice for any occasion.

  • Ingredients:
    • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
    • 2 cups napa cabbage, thinly sliced
    • 1 cup carrots, shredded
    • 1/2 cup bell peppers, thinly sliced
    • 1/4 cup scallions, chopped
    • 1/4 cup toasted almonds or sesame seeds
    • 1/4 cup soy sauce
    • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
    • 2 tablespoons sesame oil
    • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • Instructions:
    1. In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, napa cabbage, carrots, bell peppers, and scallions.
    2. In a separate bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and sugar until the sugar is dissolved.
    3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine. Garnish with toasted almonds or sesame seeds before serving.

6. Filipino Mango Salad (Ensaladang Mangga)

Filipino Mango Salad, or Ensaladang Mangga, is a refreshing and vibrant dish that showcases the sweetness of ripe mangoes. Combined with tomatoes, onions, and a splash of fish sauce or vinegar, this salad is a perfect accompaniment to grilled meats or seafood.

  • Ingredients:
    • 2 ripe mangoes, peeled and diced
    • 1 cup tomatoes, diced
    • 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
    • 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
    • 1 tablespoon fish sauce or vinegar
    • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Instructions:
    1. In a mixing bowl, combine diced mangoes, tomatoes, red onion, and cilantro.
    2. Add the fish sauce or vinegar, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
    3. Toss gently to combine all ingredients and serve chilled or at room temperature.

7. Indonesian Gado-Gado Salad

Indonesian Gado-Gado Salad is a hearty and nutritious salad that showcases the diversity of Indonesian cuisine. This salad is a vibrant mix of steamed vegetables, boiled eggs, and tofu, all topped with a rich peanut sauce that brings the dish together.

  • Ingredients:
    • 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as green beans, carrots, and cabbage), steamed
    • 2 boiled eggs, quartered
    • 1 cup firm tofu, diced and pan-fried
    • 1/2 cup bean sprouts
    • 1/4 cup peanuts, crushed
    • For the Peanut Sauce:
      • 1/2 cup peanut butter
      • 1/4 cup coconut milk
      • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
      • 1 tablespoon lime juice
      • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
      • 1-2 tablespoons chili paste (or adjust to taste)
  • Instructions:
    1. In a small saucepan, combine all the peanut sauce ingredients and heat over low flame until smooth and well combined, stirring frequently. Adjust the consistency with water, if needed.
    2. On a serving platter, arrange the steamed vegetables, boiled eggs, and tofu.
    3. Drizzle the peanut sauce over the top and sprinkle with crushed peanuts before serving.

Each of these Asian-inspired salads brings a unique blend of flavors and ingredients that not only tantalize your taste buds but also offer a glimpse into the rich culinary traditions of their respective cultures. From the sweet and savory notes of Gado-Gado to the refreshing crunch of Filipino Mango Salad, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. These dishes are perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, or simply to brighten up your everyday meals.

As you explore these recipes, don’t hesitate to customize them to your personal taste. Experiment with different vegetables, proteins, and dressings to create your own signature salads. The possibilities are endless, and with each bite, you can embark on a culinary journey through Asia right from your kitchen!

8. Thai Beef Salad (Yam Nua)

Thai Beef Salad, or Yam Nua, is a robust and flavorful dish that brings together grilled beef, fresh vegetables, and a zesty dressing to create an unforgettable meal. This salad is often enjoyed as a main course and is perfect for those who crave a heartier option while still enjoying the refreshing qualities of a salad.

  • Ingredients:
    • 1 pound beef flank steak, grilled and thinly sliced
    • 2 cups mixed salad greens (such as lettuce and arugula)
    • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
    • 1/2 cup cucumber, sliced
    • 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
    • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
    • 2 tablespoons fish sauce
    • 2 tablespoons lime juice
    • 1 tablespoon sugar
    • 1-2 Thai bird chilies, sliced (optional)
  • Instructions:
    1. Grill the flank steak to your desired doneness, then let it rest before slicing it thinly against the grain.
    2. In a large bowl, combine the salad greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and cilantro.
    3. In a separate bowl, whisk together fish sauce, lime juice, sugar, and sliced chilies to create the dressing.
    4. Add the sliced beef to the salad mixture and pour the dressing over the top. Toss gently to combine and serve immediately.

9. Malaysian Rojak Salad

Malaysian Rojak Salad is an exciting fruit and vegetable salad that is both sweet and savory, featuring a variety of textures and flavors. This dish is known for its unique dressing made from shrimp paste, sugar, and lime, which beautifully complements the fresh ingredients.

  • Ingredients:
    • 1 cup cucumber, sliced
    • 1 cup jicama, peeled and cut into strips
    • 1 cup pineapple, diced
    • 1 cup mango, diced
    • 1/2 cup bean sprouts
    • 1/4 cup crushed peanuts
    • 2 tablespoons shrimp paste (or substitute soy sauce for a vegetarian option)
    • 1 tablespoon sugar
    • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • Instructions:
    1. In a bowl, combine shrimp paste, sugar, and lime juice to create the dressing.
    2. Add the cucumber, jicama, pineapple, mango, and bean sprouts to the bowl and mix well to coat all the ingredients with the dressing.
    3. Transfer the salad to a serving platter and sprinkle with crushed peanuts before serving.

10. Thai Mango Salad (Som Tum Mamuang)

Thai Mango Salad, or Som Tum Mamuang, is a delightful twist on the traditional green papaya salad. This refreshing dish features ripe mangoes and a tangy dressing that creates a perfect balance of sweetness and acidity, making it a great side dish or light main course.

  • Ingredients:
    • 2 ripe mangoes, peeled and julienned
    • 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
    • 1 carrot, julienned
    • 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
    • 2 tablespoons fish sauce
    • 2 tablespoons lime juice
    • 1 tablespoon sugar
    • 1-2 Thai bird chilies, sliced (optional)
  • Instructions:
    1. In a bowl, whisk together fish sauce, lime juice, sugar, and chilies to create the dressing.
    2. In a large mixing bowl, combine julienned mangoes, bell pepper, carrot, and mint leaves.
    3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine before serving.

11. Indian Chickpea Salad (Chana Chaat)

Indian Chickpea Salad, or Chana Chaat, is a flavorful and nutritious salad that combines chickpeas with a medley of spices, vegetables, and a tangy dressing. This dish is not only satisfying but also packed with protein and fiber, making it a wonderful option for a light meal or snack.

  • Ingredients:
    • 1 can (15 ounces) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
    • 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
    • 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
    • 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
    • 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
    • 1 tablespoon chaat masala
    • 1 tablespoon lime juice
    • Salt to taste
  • Instructions:
    1. In a mixing bowl, combine chickpeas, tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and cilantro.
    2. Add chaat masala, lime juice, and salt, tossing everything together until well mixed.
    3. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to one hour to allow the flavors to meld.

12. Burmese Tea Leaf Salad (Laphet Thohk)

Burmese Tea Leaf Salad, or Laphet Thohk, is a unique and flavorful dish that features fermented tea leaves as its star ingredient. This salad is a delightful combination of textures and flavors, making it a perfect appetizer or side dish.

  • Ingredients:
    • 1 cup fermented tea leaves (available at Asian markets)
    • 1/2 cup cooked green beans, chopped
    • 1/2 cup tomatoes, diced
    • 1/4 cup roasted peanuts, crushed
    • 1/4 cup fried garlic
    • 2 tablespoons lime juice
    • 1 tablespoon fish sauce
    • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • Instructions:
    1. In a bowl, mix together the fermented tea leaves, green beans, tomatoes, and half of the crushed peanuts and fried garlic.
    2. Add lime juice, fish sauce, and sesame oil, mixing well to combine.
    3. Serve the salad garnished with the remaining peanuts and fried garlic.

These additional Asian-inspired salads further enhance the variety of flavors and ingredients you can explore in your culinary journey. From the hearty and satisfying Thai Beef Salad to the unique and tangy Burmese Tea Leaf Salad, there’s always something new to discover and enjoy. As you try out these recipes, remember to embrace your creativity and personalize each dish to suit your palate. Your kitchen can become a canvas for a world of delicious Asian-inspired salads that transport you to distant lands with every bite!

Jessica Munoz

Welcome to my culinary corner! As a passionate recipe enthusiast, I find joy in exploring flavors, crafting dishes, and sharing the magic of cooking with others. Whether it’s time-honored classics or creative new twists, I’m here to inspire your kitchen adventures and celebrate the love of good food.

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