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Prawns and Daikon Salad with Ume-Shiso Dressing

This elegant prawn and daikon salad is a masterclass in balancing crisp textures with bold Japanese flavours. The star of the dish is the tangy dressing, which combines salty umeboshi plum paste with the unique, mint-like fragrance of fresh shiso leaves. By soaking the daikon in salted ice water, the radish becomes incredibly crisp, providing a refreshing base that cuts through the richness of the grilled seafood.

As a naturally dairy-free starter or light lunch, this recipe is perfect for those seeking a sophisticated yet healthy meal. The combination of succulent grilled prawns and the zesty, savoury vinaigrette makes it a wonderful choice for warm weather dining or as an impressive opening course for a dinner party. Serve immediately to enjoy the contrast between the chilled radish and the warm, tender prawns.

Continue reading below

Ingredients for Prawns and Daikon Salad with Ume-Shiso Dressing

  • 1 (275g) piece daikon radish, peeled

  • 350g medium prawns, peeled

  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

  • 45ml mirin (Japanese sweet rice wine)

  • 1 1/2 tablespoons rice vinegar (not seasoned)

  • 2 1/4 teaspoons umeboshi plum vinegar

  • 2 tablespoons umeboshi plum paste

  • 1 1/2 teaspoons reduced-sodium soy sauce

  • 3/4 teaspoons packed light brown sugar

  • 70ml vegetable oil

  • 45ml finely chopped green shiso leaves (about 9)

  • an adjustable-blade slicer

  • a large (2-burner) ridged grill pan (preferably cast-iron)

How to make Prawns and Daikon Salad with Ume-Shiso Dressing

Using slicer, cut daikon lengthwise into very thin slices (see cooks' note, below). Soak in a bowl of lightly salted cold water, chilled, 30 minutes.

While daikon soaks, toss prawns with oil and 1/8 teaspoons pepper. Heat grill pan over medium-high heat until hot, then cook prawns, turning once, until just cooked through, 2 to 4 minutes total. Transfer to a plate.

Whisk together mirin, vinegars, plum paste, soy sauce, and brown sugar in a medium bowl. Add oil in a slow stream, whisking. Stir in shiso leaves.

Stir prawns into dressing. Drain daikon well. Rinse and pat dry, then divide among 6 plates. Using a slotted spoon, top with prawns. Serve drizzled with some of remaining dressing.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 16 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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