When diving into the deliciousness that is the Zaxby’s Zensation Zalad, choosing the right side dishes and beverages amplifies the experience. Think about pairing it with a light and refreshing beverage like homemade iced tea or lemonade.
A sweet slice of cornbread could complement the crunchiness of the salad too. I’ve found that having a side of crispy, fried pickles or even a light soup could round out your meal. Each side brings a unique texture and flavor that plays off the Zensation Zalad wonderfully.
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Why This Recipe is a Must-Try
Let me tell you, I’ve had my fair share of salads, but the Zaxby’s Zensation Zalad stands out. It’s a salad that captivates your taste buds with a balance of crunch and flavor.
I enjoy how it combines fresh greens with delightful toppings like grilled chicken and crunchy wonton strips. This dish is not just another salad; it’s a delightful composition that makes healthy eating enjoyable.
I’ve prepared this recipe countless times, and it has never failed to impress. The ingredients offer a bounty of nutrients while keeping the flavor profile exciting. And let’s be real—who doesn’t love a salad that can essentially be a meal on its own?
You will also like the following Salad recipes!
- Best Zaxby’s Caesar Salad Dressing Recipe
- How to make Zaxby’s Cobb Salad
- Easy Zaxby’s Asian Slaw Recipe
My Experience with the Ingredients
Each ingredient in this Zensation Zalad plays a key role in bringing the dish together. The Asian cabbage slaw mix offers a refreshing crunch, while the grilled chicken breast adds a hearty protein punch.
Fresh cilantro introduces vibrant flavors, and crispy wonton strips provide that satisfying crunch we all crave. I truly enjoy how every bite feels like a mini celebration in my mouth.
Ingredients List
Honey Sesame Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons Raw Honey
- 2 tablespoons Freshly Minced Ginger
- 1 teaspoon Rice Vinegar for a subtle tartness
- 1 teaspoon Pure Toasted Sesame Oil
- ¼ cup Aged Balsamic Vinegar
- 2 tablespoons Tamari Soy Sauce
- 2 tablespoons Filtered Water
- ½ cup Cold-Pressed Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- 2 teaspoons Finely Minced Garlic
Zensation Salad:
- 6 Crunchy Vegetable Egg Rolls
- 6 cups Asian Cabbage Slaw Mix
- 6 cups Chopped Romaine Hearts Lettuce
- 2 Grilled Chicken Breasts
- ½ cup Chopped Cilantro for a fresh note
- 1 cup Crispy Rice Wonton Strips
- ¾ cup Honey Sesame Dressing
- A dash of Crushed Red Pepper Flakes for mild heat
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How to Make the Zaxby’s Zensation Zalad at Home
Step 1: Prepare the Dressing
Start by gathering all your ingredients. In a mixing bowl, combine the raw honey, minced ginger, rice vinegar, sesame oil, balsamic vinegar, soy sauce, water, and olive oil.
Whisk the ingredients together until they’re well blended. Make sure you taste it! Adjust the honey or vinegar to suit your palate.
Step 2: Assemble the Salad Base
Grab a large salad bowl. Add the shredded Asian cabbage slaw mix and chopped romaine lettuce. These greens form the crunchy foundation of your dish. I recommend mixing the greens well to ensure every bite contains a blend of flavors.
Step 3: Add the Protein
Next, slice the grilled chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Scatter them over the mixed greens generously. Grilled chicken enhances both the flavor and nutritional value of your salad.
Step 4: Introduce the Crunch
Sprinkle the crispy rice wonton strips over the salad. Their satisfying crunch elevates the dish and adds another layer of texture. You can also taste the variety of flavors working together in this combination.
Step 5: Dress up Your Salad
Drizzle the warm honey sesame dressing on top of the salad, allowing it to soak into the ingredients. I find it helpful to toss everything together lightly to ensure that every element is coated with that delightful, homemade dressing.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Finally, sprinkle chopped cilantro over the salad. This brightens the dish and adds an enticing aroma. If you like a bit of heat, finish with a dash of crushed red pepper flakes.
Recipe Notes
- Raw Honey: Not only does honey sweeten the dressing, but it also offers antioxidant properties.
- Freshly Minced Ginger: Ginger is fantastic for digestion and adds a nuanced flavor to the salad.
- Asian Cabbage Slaw Mix: This blend gives a vibrant color and crunch, loaded with fiber.
- Grilled Chicken Breasts: A lean protein that keeps you satiated, making this salad a full meal.
- Crispy Rice Wonton Strips: These add a delightful crunch and are a perfect contrast to the softer ingredients.
- Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: They can spice things up a notch if you’re feeling bold.
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Recipe Variations
Feel free to get creative! Here are some fun variations to consider:
- Add Avocado: Creamy avocado can enhance the texture and provide healthy fats.
- Swap the Veggies: Toss in your favorite salad veggies like cucumber or radishes for extra crunch.
- Different Proteins: Try using shrimp or tofu for a delicious twist.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free wonton strips or omit them for a lighter option.
- Vegan Version: Replace chicken with chickpeas or tempeh for a plant-based delight.
- Add Cheese: Crumbled feta or shredded mozzarella can add richness.
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Zaxby’s Zensation Zalad Home Recipe
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
Ingredients
Honey Sesame Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons Raw Honey
- 2 tablespoons Freshly Minced Ginger
- 1 teaspoon Rice Vinegar for a subtle tartness
- 1 teaspoon Pure Toasted Sesame Oil
- ¼ cup Aged Balsamic Vinegar
- 2 tablespoons Tamari Soy Sauce
- 2 tablespoons Filtered Water
- ½ cup Cold-Pressed Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- 2 teaspoons Finely Minced Garlic
Zensation Salad:
- 6 Crunchy Vegetable Egg Rolls
- 6 cups Asian Cabbage Slaw Mix
- 6 cups Chopped Romaine Hearts Lettuce
- 2 Grilled Chicken Breasts
- ½ cup Chopped Cilantro for a fresh note
- 1 cup Crispy Rice Wonton Strips
- ¾ cup Honey Sesame Dressing
- A dash of Crushed Red Pepper Flakes for mild heat
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dressing
- Start by gathering all your ingredients. In a mixing bowl, combine the raw honey, minced ginger, rice vinegar, sesame oil, balsamic vinegar, soy sauce, water, and olive oil.
- Whisk the ingredients together until they’re well blended. Make sure you taste it! Adjust the honey or vinegar to suit your palate.
Step 2: Assemble the Salad Base
- Grab a large salad bowl. Add the shredded Asian cabbage slaw mix and chopped romaine lettuce. These greens form the crunchy foundation of your dish. I recommend mixing the greens well to ensure every bite contains a blend of flavors.
Step 3: Add the Protein
- Next, slice the grilled chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Scatter them over the mixed greens generously. Grilled chicken enhances both the flavor and nutritional value of your salad.
Step 4: Introduce the Crunch
- Sprinkle the crispy rice wonton strips over the salad. Their satisfying crunch elevates the dish and adds another layer of texture. You can also taste the variety of flavors working together in this combination.
Step 5: Dress up Your Salad
- Drizzle the warm honey sesame dressing on top of the salad, allowing it to soak into the ingredients. I find it helpful to toss everything together lightly to ensure that every element is coated with that delightful, homemade dressing.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
- Finally, sprinkle chopped cilantro over the salad. This brightens the dish and adds an enticing aroma. If you like a bit of heat, finish with a dash of crushed red pepper flakes.
Notes
- Raw Honey: Not only does honey sweeten the dressing, but it also offers antioxidant properties.
- Freshly Minced Ginger: Ginger is fantastic for digestion and adds a nuanced flavor to the salad.
- Asian Cabbage Slaw Mix: This blend gives a vibrant color and crunch, loaded with fiber.
- Grilled Chicken Breasts: A lean protein that keeps you satiated, making this salad a full meal.
- Crispy Rice Wonton Strips: These add a delightful crunch and are a perfect contrast to the softer ingredients.
- Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: They can spice things up a notch if you’re feeling bold.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make the Zensation Zalad in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the salad a few hours in advance. Just keep the dressing separate until serving to maintain the crunch of the wonton strips and greens.
2. How long can leftovers be stored?
You can refrigerate any leftovers for about 2-3 days. However, remember that the salad may wilt a bit over time, so I recommend enjoying it fresh.
3. Is the dressing suitable for other salads?
Definitely! This honey sesame dressing works wonderfully on a variety of salads. You might love it on a basic mixed green salad or even as a marinade for veggies.
Conclusion
Creating Zaxby’s Zensation Zalad at home is a culinary endeavor you won’t regret. Each bite is a blend of fresh, vibrant flavors and crunch that makes healthy eating enjoyable.
With its customizable nature, you can adapt this recipe to fit any dietary needs or personal preferences, ensuring it’s a winner every time.
As a registered dietitian and food blogger, I remind myself that cooking should be straightforward and enjoyable. So, why not make this salad today? Gather your ingredients, throw on your apron, and treat yourself to a meal that’s as satisfying as it is nutritious.
Enjoy!