Shabu Shabu Salad
Refreshing Shabu Shabu Salad (Easy 20-Min Summer Recipe)
Looking for a light yet satisfying meal to beat the hot weather? This Japanese Shabu Shabu Salad is the perfect choice.
Combining tender, thinly sliced pork with crisp vegetables and a nutty sesame dressing, it's a refreshing twist on the traditional hot pot dish. It takes everything I love about shabu shabu—the tender slices of pork, the clean flavors, and turns it into a chilled, crisp salad you can make in just 20 minutes.
Perfect for lunch, an easy dinner, or those days when it’s just too hot and need a refreshing meal.
What is Shabu Shabu?
Shabu Shabu is a classic Japanese hot pot where thinly sliced meat is briefly swished in boiling broth and dipped into flavorful sauces.
The name comes from the “swish swish” sound as the meat cooks.
This salad version keeps that same idea, but instead of eating it hot, everything is chilled and tossed with a nutty sesame dressing. It’s a more casual, summer-friendly way to enjoy the dish.
How to Cook Shabu Shabu Meat Extra Delicious
The small details make a big difference here.
Adding sake to the boiling water helps remove any pork smell while enhancing umami. A pinch of salt lightly seasons the meat as it cooks.
The key is to cook the pork briefly - just until it turns no pink. Overcooking will make it tough.
And don’t skip the ice bath. It locks in tenderness and gives the pork that clean, refreshing texture that makes this salad so good.
Why You'll Love This Shabu Shabu Salad
Quick & Easy: Ready in just 20 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Healthy & Nutritious: Packed with protein and fresh veggies.
Versatile: Customize with your favorite greens or switch to beef slices for variation.
Perfect for Spring and Summer: Served chilled, it's a cooling meal for hot days.
RECIPE
Servings: 3-4
Time: 20 min
Ingredients:
1/2 lb thinly sliced pork loin
1 tbsp sake
salt
1/2 lettuce
2 pcs persian cucumber
2 pcs tomato
Sauce:
2 tbsp sugar
2 tbsp soy sauce
2 tbsp rice vinegar
2 tbsp sesame oil
2 tbsp sesame seeds
2 tbsp sesame paste or tahini (if not available, skip and add extra sesame seeds)
Instructions:
Prepare the Pork:
Boil water in a pot, add sake and a pinch of salt.
Place each pork slices in the pot, cook until just done. (do not over cook)
Transfer to iced water to chill, pat the meat with the paper towel.
Assemble the Salad:
In a large bowl, combine chopped lettuce, julienned cucumbers, and sliced tomatoes.
Add the chilled pork slices on top.
Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl or a jar, whisk together sugar, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, ground sesame seeds, and sesame paste until smooth.
Combine and Serve:
Drizzle the dressing over the salad.
Toss gently to combine.
Serve immediately for a refreshing meal.
FAQ
Can I use beef instead of pork?
Yes! Thinly sliced beef works great and adds a richer flavor.
Can I make this ahead of time?
You can prep everything ahead, but assemble just before serving to keep the vegetables crisp.
What can I use instead of sesame paste?
You can skip it and add more sesame seeds, or use a small amount of peanut butter for a similar richness.
Is this kid-friendly?
Yes, especially if your kids enjoy simple flavors. You can serve the dressing on the side.
More Recipe Ideas:
If you love simple Japanese salads, try my Japanese Okra Salad
Looking for another refreshing noodle dish? Don’t miss this Soba Salad with Salmon Skin
For a comforting contrast, check out this warm Mushroom Egg Drop Udon (Tamago Toji Udon)
