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Korean Herb Salad

Serves 4 to 6 Salad vegetarian, Salads

Korean Herb Salad

Korean Herb Salad embodies the essence of uncomplicated home cooking, blending the bounty of fresh greens with a touch of indulgence. This dish is a staple at Korean family meals, where it is often served alongside rice and other banchan. Crafted with care and seasoned by intuition, it's the kind of recipe that gets passed down through generations, not because it's complex, but because it captures the spirit of the Korean table—one that's always open and ready to share.

The salad offers a refreshing burst of flavors, with the vibrant greens and fragrant herbs dancing in the richness of olive oil and the zing of fresh lemon juice. A sprinkle of fine sea salt enhances the natural earthiness, creating a balance that's both subtle and satisfying. It's a dish that invites you to taste each ingredient's essence, making it a perfect accompaniment to any Korean meal.

Ingredients

  • 150 gmixed greens
  • 60 mlolive oil
  • lemonjuiced
  • herbs — chopped
  • to tastefine sea salt

Method

  1. Begin by washing 150 g of mixed greens thoroughly under cold running water to remove any dirt or grit. Once cleaned, gently pat them dry using a clean kitchen towel or a salad spinner to ensure they are not soggy, as excess moisture can dilute the dressing.
  2. Select a variety of fresh herbs such as cilantro, mint, and perilla leaves. Roughly chop them to release their aroma and flavor. Aim for about a handful of herbs in total, adjusting based on your preference for a more or less intense herbal flavor.
  3. In a small bowl, combine 60 ml of olive oil with the juice of one lemon. Whisk together until the mixture is emulsified and slightly thickened. This will ensure the dressing coats the greens evenly.
  4. Add fine sea salt to the dressing to taste. Start with a small pinch, then taste and adjust as needed. The salt should enhance the flavors without overpowering the fresh taste of the greens and herbs.
  5. Place the mixed greens and chopped herbs in a large mixing bowl. Drizzle the prepared dressing over the top, ensuring even distribution. Use your hands or salad tongs to toss everything gently, being careful to keep the greens and herbs intact and not bruised.
  6. Once the salad is evenly dressed, taste a leaf to check for seasoning. Adjust with more salt or lemon juice if necessary, aiming for a balanced flavor that is fresh and vibrant.
  7. Transfer the salad to a serving platter or individual plates. Serve immediately with a side of fresh bread, allowing diners to enjoy the salad's crisp texture and bright flavors while they are at their peak.
Cover of Authentic Korean Cuisine
From the cookbook

Authentic Korean Cuisine

This recipe is from Authentic Korean Cuisine by Yassine Sbiti — the Korean volume in the ComidaTime International Cuisines series.

Available soon on Amazon…

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