Watercress with soy & chilli dressing

Watercress with soy and chili dressing is a refreshing side salad featuring the peppery flavor of watercress complemented by a tangy and spicy dressing. This easy-to-make dish is ideal for a light appetizer or as a vibrant accompaniment to your main course.

15 Feb 2026
Cook time 0 min
Prep time 10 min

Ingredients:

1 cup watercress
1 tbsp vinegar
2 tsp soy sauce
1 tsp chili powder
1 tsp sugar
salt & pepper to taste
Watercress with soy & chilli dressing

Watercress with soy and chili dressing is a quick and flavorful dish that combines the peppery taste of watercress with a tangy and spicy dressing. Perfect as a refreshing side salad or a light appetizer, this dish brings together simple ingredients for a delicious and healthy meal.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Watercress:
- Rinse the cup of watercress thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt or impurities.
- Pat the watercress dry with a clean kitchen towel or use a salad spinner to ensure it's dry.
2. Make the Dressing:
- In a small bowl, combine 1 tablespoon of vinegar, 2 teaspoons of soy sauce, 1 teaspoon of chili powder, and 1 teaspoon of sugar.
- Stir the mixture well until the sugar is fully dissolved.
- Taste the dressing and add salt and pepper as desired. Adjust the seasoning to your preference.
3. Combine Watercress and Dressing:
- In a serving bowl, place the cleaned and dried watercress.
- Drizzle the soy & chili dressing over the watercress.
- Toss the watercress gently to ensure it is evenly coated with the dressing.
4. Serve:
- Serve the dressed watercress immediately to enjoy its fresh and vibrant flavors.
- This dish can be enjoyed on its own as a light salad or as a side dish to complement your main meal.

This simple yet vibrant Watercress with soy and chili dressing is both refreshing and packed with flavor. It’s a great way to incorporate more greens into your diet while enjoying the perfect balance of tangy, salty, and spicy tastes. Serve it fresh and savor the combination of textures and flavors.

Watercress with soy & chilli dressing FAQ:

How long should I let the dressing sit before using it?

You can use the dressing immediately after preparing it, as the flavors combine quickly. However, letting it sit for about 10-15 minutes can enhance the flavor.

Can I store leftovers of the dressed watercress?

It's best to serve the dressed watercress immediately for optimal freshness. If you have leftovers, store the watercress and dressing separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 1 day.

What if I don’t have chili powder?

If you don’t have chili powder, you can substitute it with red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to achieve a similar spicy effect.

What type of vinegar can I use for the dressing?

You can use any type of vinegar you prefer, such as rice vinegar, apple cider vinegar, or white vinegar. Each will give a slightly different flavor profile.

Is this salad suitable for a gluten-free diet?

The recipe contains soy sauce, which typically contains gluten. To make it gluten-free, opt for a gluten-free soy sauce or tamari.

Tips:

- Ensure the watercress is thoroughly washed and dried before using.

- Adjust the amount of chili powder to suit your preferred level of spiciness.

- Allow the dressing to sit for a few minutes to let the flavors meld together before tossing it with the watercress.

- Consider garnishing with toasted sesame seeds or a splash of fresh lime juice for an added flavor dimension.

- Serve immediately to enjoy the fresh, crisp texture of the watercress.

Nutrition per serving

6 Servings
Calories 8kcal
Protein 0.40g
Carbohydrates 1.44g
Fiber 0.34g
Sugar 0.92g
Fat 0.14g

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