Asian Salad With Summer Vegetables in Sesame Mayo Dressing

This Asian salad brings together colorful vegetables and al dente macaroni in a creamy dressing with nutty sesame notes. Light yet satisfying, it’s a refreshing side dish you can assemble using pantry staples and leftover produce. Ideal for value seekers and smart pantry scavengers, it turns everyday ingredients into a vibrant, Asian-inspired go-to for quick, fuss-free meals.

10 min.
5 People
Easy
Average

Ingredients

1 cup Lady's Choice Real Mayonnaise
1/2 piece onion (minced)
3 cloves garlic (minced)
1 tablespoon sesame oil
500 grams salad macaroni (cooked)
1/2 cup ham (diced)
6 pieces tomatoes (chopped)
1/2 piece cucumber (sliced)
1/4 cup corn kernels
2 teaspoons fresh basil (chopped)
1 piece plain granola bar (roughly chopped) [optional]
salt, to taste
pepper, to taste

Cooking Method

Prepare the Sesame Mayo Dressing Combine Lady’s Choice Real Mayonnaise, onion, garlic, and sesame oil in a large bowl. Whisk until smooth and evenly blended, with no streaks of oil remaining.
Coat the Macaroni Add the cooked salad macaroni to the bowl. Gently fold until every piece is coated with the dressing. Tip: Use a spatula and fold from the bottom up to prevent breaking the pasta and turning it mushy.
Add the Fresh Mix-Ins Add ham, tomatoes, cucumber, corn kernels, basil, and granola, if using. Fold gently until well distributed. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately or chill briefly.

What Is an Asian Vegetable Salad?

An Asian vegetable salad is a fresh, produce-forward dish brought together by an Asian-inspired dressing. In this recipe, the vegetables are the same everyday staples found in many Filipino kitchens, including tomatoes, cucumber, and corn. What makes it distinctly Asian is the creamy sesame dressing made from scratch, giving the salad its nutty profile.

Why This Salad Is Perfect for Summer

This Asian veggie salad feels light yet satisfying. The fresh vegetables keep it crisp and cooling, while the creamy sesame dressing adds richness without weighing it down. It works well as a quick side dish for warm days or relaxed family meals.

Ingredient Substitutions or Add-Ins

This Asian summer vegetable salad recipe makes good use of what’s already in the refrigerator. Swap ham with leftover roast chicken, ground beef, or tuna flakes for added protein. Add shredded cabbage, carrots, bell peppers, or extra herbs to stretch the salad further and minimize waste. It’s a practical choice for pantry scavengers looking to maximize ingredients on hand.

How to Serve This Asian Salad

Serve this Asian salad chilled or slightly cool for the best texture. Keep it refrigerated and avoid leaving it out for long periods to maintain freshness and prevent spoilage. Pair it with Pinoy fried chicken, steak with mushroom sauce, or tender baby back ribs for a balanced summer meal.