why make this recipe
This Korean Spinach Salad (Sigeumchi Namul) is quick, fresh, and full of flavor. It takes little time and needs few ingredients. If you like simple greens, you might also enjoy a warm shrimp and spinach dish like avocado ranch shrimp and spinach salad for a different meal idea.
introduction
This dish is a small side that goes with many meals. It tastes nutty from sesame oil and seeds, bright from garlic, and salty from soy sauce. Try it when you want a light, healthy side. You can also pair it with other salads such as an antipasto salad for more variety.
how to make Korean Spinach Salad (Sigeumchi Namul)
This salad uses blanched spinach and a simple sauce. Follow the steps below for an easy result. Have the ingredients ready and work quickly so the spinach stays bright.
Ingredients :
- Fresh spinach
- Garlic
- Sesame oil
- Soy sauce
- Sesame seeds
- Salt
Directions :
- Rinse the spinach and blanch in boiling water for 1-2 minutes until wilted. Drain and cool under cold water.
- Squeeze out excess water from the spinach and chop roughly.
- In a bowl, mix spinach with minced garlic, sesame oil, soy sauce, salt, and sesame seeds.
- Toss to combine, adjust seasoning if necessary, and serve.
how to serve Korean Spinach Salad (Sigeumchi Namul)
Serve this cold or at room temperature. It works well with rice, grilled meat, or noodles. For a heartier plate, you can serve it alongside a dish like healthy bacon ranch shrimp spinach salad.
how to store Korean Spinach Salad (Sigeumchi Namul)
Cool the salad to room temperature. Put it in an airtight container. Keep it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Do not freeze; the texture will change.
tips to make Korean Spinach Salad (Sigeumchi Namul)
- Do not overcook the spinach. Blanch 1-2 minutes so it stays bright and tender.
- Squeeze the spinach well to remove water. This keeps the dressing from getting thin.
- Taste and add a little more soy sauce or salt if needed.
- Try toasting the sesame seeds briefly for more flavor. You can also serve it with a different salad like an antipasto salad for a mixed spread.
variation (if any)
- Add a dash of gochugaru (Korean red pepper flakes) for mild heat.
- Mix in a small splash of rice vinegar or a pinch of sugar for a brighter taste.
- Use raw toasted sesame seeds or crushed roasted peanuts for texture.
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen spinach?
A: You can, but thaw and squeeze out all water well before mixing.
Q: How long does the salad last?
A: It lasts up to 2 days in the fridge in a sealed container.
Q: Is this dish vegan?
A: Yes, the basic recipe is vegan and gluten-free if you use gluten-free soy sauce.
Q: Can I skip the garlic?
A: Yes, skipping garlic will make the salad milder but still tasty.
Conclusion
For a classic Korean version and extra tips, see Spinach side dish (Sigeumchi-namul) recipe by Maangchi.
Print
Korean Spinach Salad (Sigeumchi Namul)
- Total Time: 12 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan, Gluten-Free
Description
A quick, fresh, and flavorful Korean spinach salad, perfect as a light side dish.
Ingredients
- 1 bunch Fresh spinach
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons Soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon Sesame seeds
- Salt, to taste
Instructions
- Rinse the spinach and blanch in boiling water for 1-2 minutes until wilted. Drain and cool under cold water.
- Squeeze out excess water from the spinach and chop roughly.
- In a bowl, mix spinach with minced garlic, sesame oil, soy sauce, salt, and sesame seeds.
- Toss to combine, adjust seasoning if necessary, and serve.
Notes
Serve cold or at room temperature. Can be paired with rice, grilled meat, or noodles. Store in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Blanching
- Cuisine: Korean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Korean salad, spinach salad, Sigeumchi Namul, healthy side dish, vegan recipes