Potsticker Salad Recipe: 5 Easy Flavor Wins

Name: Potsticker Salad Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Ingredients: 1 lb frozen gyoza dumplings (vegan or regular); 1 lb heirloom tomatoes, mixed colors; 1 English cucumber or 4 Persian cucumbers; 5 scallions, thinly sliced; 1 red chili pepper (optional); 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves; 3 Tbsp low-sodium tamari; 2 Tbsp balsamic vinegar; 2–3 tsp maple syrup; 1 Tbsp toasted sesame seeds or crispy fried onions; Garlic chili sauce (optional); Thinly sliced cabbage; Shredded carrots; Bean sprouts; Shelled edamame

Jump to Recipe

If you’ve ever stared at a bag of frozen dumplings and thought, “Okay… now what?” this Potsticker Salad Recipe is about to change your weeknight dinner game forever.

We’re talking crispy-edged (or tender-steamed) gyoza tossed with juicy heirloom tomatoes, cool crunchy cucumbers, fresh basil, and a sweet-savory tamari dressing that clings to every bite. It’s bold. It’s fresh. It’s satisfying without feeling heavy. And yes—it comes together fast enough for a Tuesday night between soccer practice and Zoom calls.

As Chef Omar would say, gourmet doesn’t have to be complicated. Sometimes it just means looking at something simple—like frozen dumplings—and giving it a glow-up.

Let’s turn those humble potstickers into a vibrant, crave-worthy dumpling salad that’ll make your kitchen smell like your favorite Asian café.

Why You’ll Love This Potsticker Salad Recipe

Weeknight-friendly: Ready in about 20 minutes.
Family-approved: Familiar dumplings + fresh veggies = a win.
Flexible: Use vegan gyoza or traditional.
Meal-prep worthy: Holds up beautifully at room temperature.
Flavor-packed: Umami from tamari, sweetness from maple syrup, brightness from balsamic vinegar.

It’s the kind of dish that feels impressive—but secretly, it’s incredibly easy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Salad:

1 lb frozen gyoza dumplings (vegan or regular)
1 lb heirloom tomatoes, mixed colors
1 English cucumber (or 4 Persian cucumbers)
5 scallions, thinly sliced
1 red chili pepper (optional)
½ cup fresh basil leaves

For the Dressing:

3 tablespoons low-sodium tamari
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
2–3 teaspoons maple syrup

Garnish:

1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds or crispy fried onions
Garlic chili sauce (optional)

Optional Add-Ins:

Thinly sliced cabbage
Shredded carrots
Bean sprouts
Edamame

Step-by-Step: How to Make This Dumpling Salad

Don’t worry—no culinary degree required. Just follow along.

Step 1: Cook the Potstickers

You’ve got two options:

Steam Method (lighter texture):

Steam according to package instructions.
Transfer to a large bowl.
Toss with 1 teaspoon sesame oil (or a splash of water) to prevent sticking.

Pan-Fry Method (crispy edges):

Preheat a skillet over medium heat.
Add enough vegetable oil to coat the bottom.
Arrange dumplings in a single layer.
Cook about 5 minutes, until heated through and lightly golden.

Both ways work beautifully. If you’ve got kids who love crispy textures? Go pan-fried. If you’re keeping things lighter? Steam away.

Step 2: Whisk the Dressing

In a small bowl, combine:

Tamari
Balsamic vinegar
Maple syrup

Whisk until smooth. Taste it.

Want it sweeter? Add a touch more maple syrup.
Need more zing? A splash more balsamic does the trick.

Cooking is about balance—not perfection.

Step 3: Toss the Dumplings

Pour the dressing over the warm dumplings. Gently toss to coat.

Be careful here—no aggressive stirring. We want coated dumplings, not broken ones.

Step 4: Add the Fresh Crunch

Cut tomatoes into wedges.
Thinly slice cucumber and scallions.
Slice the chili pepper (if using).

Add everything to the bowl and gently combine.

Already, you’ll notice the contrast—warm dumplings, juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumber. That’s where the magic happens.

Step 5: Finish with Freshness

Tear basil leaves over the top.
Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds or crispy onions.

Serve at room temperature. That’s when the flavors shine brightest.

Potsticker Salad Recipe with steamed dumplings, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, scallions, and sesame seeds in a blue bowl. — This vibrant Potsticker Salad Recipe combines tender dumplings, crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and a savory tamari dressing.

Chef Omar’s Pro Tips for the Best Potsticker Salad Recipe

Let’s elevate this just a bit more:

1. Salt your tomatoes lightly.
Before mixing, sprinkle a pinch of salt over the tomato wedges. Let them sit 5 minutes. This brings out their natural sweetness.

2. Don’t overdress.
Add dressing gradually if you’re nervous. You can always add more—but you can’t take it out.

3. Make it a full meal.
Toss in edamame or shredded cabbage for extra protein and crunch.

4. Spice control.
Garlic chili sauce on the side keeps everyone happy. Not all family members love heat—especially the tiny ones.

And if your dumplings stick together? Relax. They’ll separate once tossed. They’re just being clingy.

A Little Kitchen Story

This dumpling salad became a staple in my kitchen after one chaotic evening. I had frozen gyoza, a fridge full of farmers market tomatoes, and zero energy for anything complicated.

So I tossed it all together.

My guests went silent after the first bite. You know that quiet? The good kind. The “we’re too busy eating” kind.

Now, this Potsticker Salad Recipe shows up whenever I need something impressive but low effort. It’s my secret weapon.

Make It Your Own

Here’s where creativity shines:

Swap basil for cilantro.
Add shredded napa cabbage for extra crunch.
Throw in bean sprouts for texture.
Add sliced avocado for creaminess.
Use crispy fried onions for a fun twist.

Cooking should feel flexible, not rigid. Your kitchen, your rules.

Nutrition Snapshot

Per serving (approximate):

350 calories
11g protein
6g fiber
60g carbohydrates
10g fat

It’s satisfying without weighing you down. Perfect for lunch leftovers or a light dinner.

FAQs About This Potsticker Salad Recipe

Can I use chicken or pork dumplings instead of vegan?

Absolutely. This dumpling salad works with any frozen gyoza you love. Just cook according to package directions.

How long does it keep in the fridge?

It’s best the day you make it, but it will keep in an airtight container for up to 2 days. The cucumbers may soften slightly—but the flavor stays delicious.

Can I meal prep this?

Yes! Store the dressing separately and combine right before serving for the freshest texture.

Is this served hot or cold?

Room temperature is ideal. The warm dumplings and cool vegetables create the best contrast.

What can I serve with it?

It pairs beautifully with:
Miso soup
Steamed rice
Grilled chicken
Or enjoy it solo—it’s filling enough on its own.

Bringing It All Together

This isn’t just another salad. This Potsticker Salad Recipe is what happens when comfort food meets fresh, vibrant produce. It’s colorful enough for entertaining, simple enough for a Tuesday, and adaptable enough for whatever your fridge holds.

If you’ve got frozen dumplings waiting in your freezer, consider this your sign. Upgrade them. Toss them with fresh veggies. Drizzle that sweet-savory dressing.

And watch your family ask, “Wait… can you make this again?”

From my kitchen to yours—grab that apron, turn up your favorite playlist, and let this Potsticker Salad Recipe bring a little extra joy to your table tonight.

Keep the Fresh Flavor Going

If this Potsticker Salad Recipe made your weeknight brighter, here are a few more fresh and feel-good dishes to add to your rotation. Each one brings bold flavor, easy prep, and that same “wow, this is simple but impressive” energy we love in our kitchens.

Turn dinner into a full takeout-style feast with these saucy, satisfying Easy One-Pot Teriyaki Noodles Recipe — perfect alongside dumplings or all on their own.
Craving another vibrant, veggie-packed side? This colorful Mediterranean Bean Salad with Feta delivers brightness, protein, and serious texture in every bite.
If bold sauces are your love language, you’ll want to drizzle this herby, punchy Best Ever Chimichurri Recipe over pan-fried potstickers for a flavor twist that feels restaurant-worthy.
Building more nourishing bowl-style meals? This wholesome Glow Bowl Recipe is layered with color, crunch, and goodness—just like your new favorite dumpling salad.

And if you’re curious how others are putting their spin on this dish, take a peek at this beautiful version of potsticker salad from Gimme Some Oven. It’s always fun to see how one simple idea can blossom into so many delicious variations.