Breakfast
Freeflourish
Gluten-Free Quick & Easy Vegan Edamame and Quinoa Salad with Sesame Dressing
By Freeflourish Test KitchenReviewed by Freeflourish Editorial TeamPublished Apr 29, 2026 · Updated Jul 7, 2026
Asian-inspired
25 mins
glutenfreevegandairyfreehighproteineasyfamilyfriendlyquickrecipeshealthymealprep30minutesorlessbudgetfriendlymaincoursesidedish
This quick and easy Asian-inspired gluten-free salad combines protein-rich edamame and quinoa, tossed in a tangy sesame dressing. Naturally vegan and dairy-free, it's a nutritious and flavorful meal prep option or a refreshing family-friendly lunch or dinner.
Prep
10 min
Cook
15 min
Total
25 min
Servings
4
Difficulty
easy
Cuisine
Asian-inspired
Ingredients
Servings
4
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed well
- 2 cups water
- 1 1/2 cups shelled edamame (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup shredded red cabbage
- 1 medium carrot, julienned or shredded
- 1/2 cup chopped cucumber
- 3 green onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
- 3 tablespoons gluten-free tamari or soy sauce alternative
- 1 1/2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup or agave nectar
- 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional, adjust to taste)
Instructions
-
Cook the quinoa: In a medium saucepan, combine rinsed quinoa and water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until all water is absorbed and quinoa is fluffy. Remove from heat and let it rest covered for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.
-
Cook edamame: While quinoa cooks, steam or boil edamame according to package instructions if frozen. Drain and cool slightly.
-
Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together gluten-free tamari, toasted sesame oil, rice vinegar, maple syrup, grated ginger, minced garlic, and chili flakes until well combined.
-
In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked quinoa, edamame, shredded cabbage, carrot, cucumber, and green onions.
-
Pour the sesame dressing over the salad and toss thoroughly to coat all ingredients evenly.
-
Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds and chopped cilantro over the top and gently mix.
-
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, adding more tamari or vinegar to preference.
-
Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 3 days as a delicious meal prep option.
Tips
Allergen Overlap Note
Check every packaged ingredient for certified gluten-free status, especially spices, broths, sauces, seed products, and baking staples. Use clean prep surfaces and dedicated utensils when preparing Gluten-Free Quick & Easy Vegan Edamame and Quinoa Salad with Sesame Dressing for someone with celiac disease.
Texture Expectations
Gluten-Free Quick & Easy Vegan Edamame and Quinoa Salad with Sesame Dressing should keep the intended bowls texture when cooked and plated carefully.
Dining With Non-GF Family Note
Prepare and serve on a dedicated gluten-free surface first, then keep any shared side dishes separate with dedicated serving utensils.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make Gluten-Free Quick & Easy Vegan Edamame and Quinoa Salad with Sesame Dressing ahead?
- Yes. Prepare components early, then store and reheat according to the storage guidance so the texture stays close to fresh.
- How do I keep this recipe gluten-free?
- Use certified gluten-free packaged ingredients and avoid shared utensils, boards, pans, or toppings that touched gluten-containing foods.
- Can I adjust the main ingredients?
- Yes. Swap ingredients with similar moisture, protein, or cooking behavior to keep timing and texture close to the original.
- How do I serve it with mixed-diet family?
- Serve the gluten-free recipe first and keep any gluten-containing toppings and sides separate.
Ingredient Replacements
- main vegetable: Use a certified gluten-free equivalent and choose a similar ingredient with matching moisture, texture, or cooking time. Check labels for shared-facility warnings when cooking for celiac disease or multiple allergies.
- protein: Use a certified gluten-free equivalent and choose a similar ingredient with matching moisture, texture, or cooking time. Check labels for shared-facility warnings when cooking for celiac disease or multiple allergies.
- seasoning: Use a certified gluten-free equivalent and choose a similar ingredient with matching moisture, texture, or cooking time. Check labels for shared-facility warnings when cooking for celiac disease or multiple allergies.
- cooking fat: Use a certified gluten-free equivalent and choose a similar ingredient with matching moisture, texture, or cooking time. Check labels for shared-facility warnings when cooking for celiac disease or multiple allergies.
- garnish: Use a certified gluten-free equivalent and choose a similar ingredient with matching moisture, texture, or cooking time. Check labels for shared-facility warnings when cooking for celiac disease or multiple allergies.
Storage and Reheating
Cool completely before covering. Refrigerate leftovers for up to 4 days, or freeze for later use. Reheat slowly to keep texture closer to fresh.
Related Articles
Read related air fryer guides and cooking tips.
More Recipes
Explore more recipes you may like.
Reviews
Rate this recipe and share a photo of your result.
No reviews yet.
Save this recipe
Log in to keep this recipe in your favorites.
Reset password Register