Japanese Spinach Sesame Salad (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Salad Base

01 - 1 bunch fresh spinach, washed and trimmed

→ Dressing

02 - 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
03 - 2 tablespoons soy sauce
04 - 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
05 - 1 tablespoon sugar
06 - 1 tablespoon sesame oil
07 - 1 clove garlic, minced
08 - 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
09 - Salt, to taste

# Instructions:

01 - Bring a pot of water to a boil. Blanch the spinach in the boiling water for about 1 minute, then immediately transfer to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Drain the spinach and squeeze out excess water.
02 - In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the sesame seeds until golden and fragrant, stirring frequently to prevent burning. Remove from heat and let them cool.
03 - In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, and a pinch of salt until the sugar is dissolved.
04 - Place the blanched spinach in a serving bowl. Pour the sesame dressing over the spinach and toss gently to coat.
05 - Sprinkle the toasted sesame seeds over the salad just before serving.

# Notes:

01 - This salad is best served chilled or at room temperature and can be prepared up to several hours in advance.