Spinach Sesame, known in Japan as Horenso no Goma-ae (ほうれん草の胡麻和え), is a traditional Japanese side dish featuring tender blanched spinach coated in a fragrant sesame dressing. Simple, nutritious, and full of umami, this classic recipe is commonly served as part of washoku (traditional Japanese cuisine), in bento boxes, and as a small appetizer alongside rice and miso soup.

The combination of fresh spinach, toasted sesame seeds, soy sauce, and a touch of sweetness creates a perfectly balanced dish that is both healthy and flavorful.

What Is Spinach Sesame?

Spinach Sesame is made by briefly blanching fresh spinach to preserve its vibrant green color and tender texture. The spinach is then dressed with a mixture of ground toasted sesame seeds, soy sauce, mirin, and sugar. Unlike creamy Western salads, this dish relies on the natural richness of sesame seeds for its distinctive flavor and texture.

It's a popular side dish because it is quick to prepare, packed with nutrients, and complements a wide variety of Japanese meals.

Ingredients

For the Spinach

  • 300 g fresh spinach
  • 2 liters water
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • Ice water for cooling

For the Sesame Dressing

  • 4 tablespoons toasted white sesame seeds
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon mirin
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional)

Garnish

  • Extra toasted sesame seeds
  • Thinly sliced green onions
  • Bonito flakes (optional)

Kitchen Equipment

  • Large saucepan
  • Mixing bowl
  • Mortar and pestle (suribachi) or spice grinder
  • Colander
  • Sharp knife
  • Measuring spoons

Step 1: Toast the Sesame Seeds

If using raw sesame seeds, toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2–3 minutes, stirring constantly until fragrant.

Allow them to cool slightly.

Grind the toasted sesame seeds into a coarse paste using a mortar and pestle or spice grinder.

Step 2: Blanch the Spinach

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

Add the spinach and blanch for 30–60 seconds until just wilted.

Immediately transfer the spinach to ice water to stop the cooking process and preserve its bright green color.

Drain thoroughly and gently squeeze out excess moisture.

Cut the spinach into bite-sized pieces.

Step 3: Prepare the Dressing

In a bowl, combine:

  • Ground sesame seeds
  • Soy sauce
  • Mirin
  • Sugar
  • Sesame oil (if using)

Mix until smooth and well blended.

Step 4: Dress the Spinach

Add the blanched spinach to the dressing.

Toss gently until every piece is evenly coated.

Avoid overmixing to keep the spinach tender.

Step 5: Serve

Arrange the Spinach Sesame on a serving plate.

Garnish with:

  • Extra toasted sesame seeds
  • Green onions
  • Bonito flakes (optional)

Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Serving Suggestions

Spinach Sesame pairs well with:

  • Steamed Japanese rice
  • Miso soup
  • Grilled salmon
  • Teriyaki chicken
  • Tonkatsu
  • Tempura
  • Yakitori
  • Sushi and sashimi
  • Bento lunches

Tips for Perfect Spinach Sesame

  • Use young, fresh spinach for the best flavor and texture.
  • Blanch the spinach briefly to retain its vibrant color.
  • Squeeze out excess water thoroughly to prevent a watery dressing.
  • Grind the sesame seeds just before mixing for the freshest aroma.
  • Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less sugar according to your preference.
  • Chill for 15 minutes before serving to enhance the flavor.

Flavor Variations

Black Sesame Spinach

Use toasted black sesame seeds for a deeper, nuttier flavor.

Spicy Sesame Spinach

Add a small amount of Japanese chili oil or shichimi togarashi.

Mushroom Spinach Sesame

Mix in lightly sautéed shiitake or shimeji mushrooms.

Tofu Spinach Sesame

Add cubes of chilled silken tofu for extra protein.

Mixed Greens Sesame

Combine spinach with bok choy, komatsuna, or mizuna for additional variety.

Storage

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Serve chilled or allow it to reach room temperature before serving.

Freezing is not recommended, as the spinach will lose its texture.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 110 kcal
  • Protein: 5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 8 g
  • Fat: 7 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Sodium: 340 mg

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Authentic Japanese home-style side dish
  • Rich, nutty sesame flavor with fresh spinach
  • Quick and easy to prepare in under 20 minutes
  • Packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants
  • Naturally vegetarian and easily adaptable for vegan diets
  • Perfect for bento boxes, weeknight dinners, and traditional Japanese meals

Japanese Spinach Sesame (Horenso no Goma-ae) is a timeless recipe that celebrates the natural flavors of fresh vegetables and toasted sesame. Light, nutritious, and beautifully balanced, this classic side dish is an excellent addition to any Japanese-inspired menu and a delicious way to enjoy spinach in its simplest and most flavorful form.