Teriyaki Beef Salad with Sesame Dressing is a fresh, flavorful, and vibrant dish that combines tender, marinated beef with crisp greens and a nutty, savory dressing. The beef is cooked to perfection with a sweet and savory teriyaki glaze, while the salad components—lettuce, cucumbers, carrots, and bell peppers—add crunch and freshness.

The sesame dressing ties the dish together with a subtle nutty aroma and a hint of tang, making it a light yet satisfying meal. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or a light weeknight option, this salad is both nutritious and visually appealing.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it balances rich, umami flavors from the teriyaki beef with the crisp, refreshing taste of fresh vegetables. The sesame dressing adds a fragrant, nutty layer that complements both the beef and the salad perfectly. It’s a versatile dish that feels indulgent without being heavy, making it a satisfying yet healthy option. The combination of textures—from tender beef to crunchy vegetables—makes every bite enjoyable and memorable.

Why This Is a Must-Try Dish

This is a must-try dish because it brings the taste of Asian-inspired cuisine to your table in a simple, approachable way. The sweet and savory teriyaki beef, paired with crisp salad ingredients and a creamy sesame dressing, creates a balanced meal that is both delicious and nutritious. It’s ideal for anyone seeking a quick, flavorful, and healthy dinner option that also looks impressive on the plate.

Recipe Overview

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Marinating Time: 15–30 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 45–60 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: Approximately 350 calories per serving
Course: Main Course / Salad
Cuisine: Asian

Ingredients

For the Teriyaki Beef

• 1 lb (450 g) beef sirloin or flank steak, thinly sliced
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons mirin or rice wine
• 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil for cooking

For the Salad

• 4 cups mixed salad greens (lettuce, spinach, arugula)
• 1 cup cucumber, thinly sliced
• 1 cup bell peppers, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup carrots, julienned
• 2 green onions, sliced
• 2 tablespoons sesame seeds, toasted

For the Sesame Dressing

• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon honey
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds

Cooking Directions

1. In a bowl, combine soy sauce, mirin, honey, sesame oil, ginger, and garlic. Add beef slices and marinate for 15–30 minutes.
2. Heat vegetable oil in a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook beef for 2–3 minutes per side until cooked through and slightly caramelized. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, vegetable oil, honey, ginger, and sesame seeds to make the dressing.
4. On a large serving platter, arrange salad greens, cucumbers, bell peppers, carrots, and green onions.
5. Top salad with cooked beef slices and drizzle with sesame dressing.
6. Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds over the top and serve immediately.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Prepare the marinade for beef by mixing soy sauce, mirin, honey, sesame oil, ginger, and garlic.
Step 2: Marinate beef slices for 15–30 minutes.
Step 3: Heat oil in a skillet or grill pan and cook beef until caramelized and cooked through.
Step 4: Prepare sesame dressing by whisking together soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, vegetable oil, honey, ginger, and sesame seeds.
Step 5: Arrange salad ingredients on a platter.
Step 6: Top with cooked beef and drizzle with dressing.
Step 7: Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and serve immediately.

How to Serve This Recipe

Serve Teriyaki Beef Salad immediately while the beef is warm for the best flavor contrast. Pair with steamed rice or noodles for a more filling meal. It also works well as a standalone dish for a light, healthy lunch or dinner.

Recipe Tips

Use thinly sliced beef for quick cooking and tender results.
Toast sesame seeds lightly for enhanced flavor.
Do not overdress the salad; add dressing gradually to taste.
Marinate beef for at least 15 minutes to infuse flavor, but avoid over-marinating.

Variations

Add avocado slices or edamame for extra texture and nutrition.
Swap beef for chicken, tofu, or shrimp for different protein options.
Incorporate shredded cabbage or radishes for a crunchy twist.
Add a drizzle of sriracha or chili oil for a spicy variation.
Use a peanut-based dressing instead of sesame for a different flavor profile.

Freezing and Storage

Store leftover cooked beef separately from salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Do not freeze salad greens; fresh vegetables lose texture when frozen.
Prepare dressing ahead of time and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Special Equipment Needed

Skillet or grill pan
Mixing bowls
Whisk
Knife and cutting board
Serving platter

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?
Yes, cook beef and make dressing in advance, but assemble salad just before serving.

Can I use pre-cooked beef?
Yes, but briefly reheat before adding to salad for best flavor.

Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes, substitute beef with tofu, tempeh, or roasted mushrooms.

How do I keep salad fresh?
Assemble just before serving and store greens separately to maintain crispness.

Conclusion

Teriyaki Beef Salad with Sesame Dressing is a fresh, flavorful, and balanced dish that combines tender, caramelized beef with crisp vegetables and a nutty, tangy dressing. Quick to prepare, visually appealing, and packed with flavor, it is ideal for weeknight dinners, light lunches, or entertaining guests. This versatile and satisfying salad offers a delicious way to enjoy Asian-inspired flavors in a healthy and convenient meal.