Okinawan Spinach (Handama) Salad: A Taste of the Tropics

The first time I encountered handama, or Okinawan spinach, it was a revelation. I was wandering through a bustling market in Naha, the capital of Okinawa, and the vibrant purple undersides of the leaves caught my eye. An elderly woman, her face etched with the wisdom of generations, smiled and handed me a sample. The slightly mucilaginous texture and earthy flavor were unlike anything I’d tasted before, and I was immediately hooked. Now, I try to incorporate handama into my salads whenever I can, bringing a little bit of that Okinawan sunshine to my table.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 5 minutes
• Servings: 1
• Dietary Type: Vegetarian

Ingredients

• 2 iceberg lettuce leaves
• 4 okinawan spinach (handama) leaves
• 1 tablespoon diced red onion
• 2 cherry tomatoes (quartered)
• 1 teaspoon herbed croutons
• 1 tablespoon salad dressing, of choice (I used a creamy French-style cheese dressing)
• ¼ teaspoon toasted sesame seeds (cracked)

Equipment Needed

• Cutting board
• Knife
• Salad bowl

Instructions

1. Begin by thoroughly rinsing the iceberg lettuce and okinawan spinach (handama) leaves under cold, running water. This will remove any dirt or debris. Gently shake off excess water or use a salad spinner to dry the leaves.
2. On a cutting board, tear the iceberg lettuce and handama leaves into large, bite-size chunks. Avoid cutting the lettuce with a knife, as this can cause it to brown more quickly.
3. In a salad bowl, combine the torn lettuce and spinach with the 1 tablespoon of diced red onion and the 2 quartered cherry tomatoes.
4. Toss the salad gently to distribute the ingredients evenly.
5. Drizzle the 1 tablespoon of your chosen salad dressing over the salad. I personally love a creamy French-style cheese dressing for its richness and tang, but feel free to experiment with your favorites.
6. Sprinkle the ¼ teaspoon of toasted sesame seeds (cracked) over the salad. The sesame seeds add a nutty flavor and a pleasant textural contrast.
7. Finally, add the 1 teaspoon of herbed croutons just before serving to maintain their crispness.
8. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Handama Handling: Okinawan spinach can be a bit delicate. Avoid over-handling it, as this can bruise the leaves. Wash it gently and pat it dry with a paper towel.
• Dressing Timing: Add the dressing just before serving to prevent the lettuce from becoming soggy.
• Red Onion Mellowing: If you find raw red onion to be too pungent, soak the diced onion in cold water for 10 minutes before adding it to the salad. This will help mellow its flavor.
• Crouton Crunch: For extra crunchy croutons, lightly toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes before adding them to the salad.
• Sesame Seed Power: Toasting the sesame seeds enhances their flavor. You can buy pre-toasted sesame seeds or toast them yourself in a dry skillet over medium heat until fragrant.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This Okinawan Spinach (Handama) Salad is best served immediately to enjoy the crispness of the lettuce and croutons. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. However, be aware that the lettuce may wilt and the croutons may become soggy. It’s best to store the dressing separately and add it just before serving. Leftovers are best consumed within 1-2 days. Due to the fresh nature of the ingredients, this salad is not suitable for freezing.

For an attractive presentation, serve the salad in a chilled bowl. You can also garnish it with a few extra sesame seeds and a sprig of fresh herbs. This salad pairs well with grilled fish, chicken, or tofu. It’s also a great side dish for a Japanese-inspired meal.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	57.5 kcal	N/A
Calories from Fat	N/A	39%
Total Fat	2.5 g	3%
Saturated Fat	0.6 g	3%
Cholesterol	9.2 mg	3%
Sodium	163.1 mg	6%
Total Carbohydrate	7.5 g	2%
Dietary Fiber	1.8 g	7%
Sugars	3.3 g	13%
Protein	2.6 g	5%

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Variations & Substitutions

• Lettuce Alternatives: If you don’t have iceberg lettuce on hand, you can substitute it with romaine lettuce or butter lettuce.
• Dressing Swaps: Feel free to experiment with different salad dressings. A sesame-ginger dressing or a light vinaigrette would also be delicious with this salad. If you want to keep it simple, a drizzle of olive oil and a squeeze of lemon juice will do the trick.
• Vegetable Additions: Consider adding other vegetables to the salad, such as sliced cucumbers, bell peppers, or carrots.
• Protein Boost: For a heartier salad, add some grilled chicken, tofu, or edamame.
• Nutty Goodness: Instead of sesame seeds, try using other toasted nuts, such as almonds or walnuts.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Where can I find Okinawan spinach (handama)?
A: Okinawan spinach is most commonly found in Asian markets or specialty produce stores. If you can’t find it locally, you may be able to order it online.

Q: What does Okinawan spinach taste like?
A: Okinawan spinach has a slightly earthy and mucilaginous flavor. Some people describe it as being similar to spinach or watercress.

Q: Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh Okinawan spinach?
A: While you could, it won’t provide the same unique flavor and texture that fresh handama offers. Try to find the fresh variety for the best results.

Q: How long does this salad last in the refrigerator?
A: It’s best to eat this salad immediately, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 days. Be aware that the lettuce may wilt and the croutons may become soggy.

Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
A: It’s best to assemble the salad just before serving to prevent the lettuce from wilting. You can prep the ingredients (wash and tear the lettuce, dice the onion, quarter the tomatoes) ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator.

Final Thoughts

This Okinawan Spinach (Handama) Salad is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for a light lunch or a side salad. The unique flavor of the handama, combined with the crispness of the lettuce and the tang of the dressing, creates a truly delightful experience. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different variations and substitutions to make it your own. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and share your feedback! Perhaps pair it with a miso-glazed salmon for a complete and satisfying meal that will transport you to the tropical shores of Okinawa.