Zesty Wasabi
Spices
Nutri-ScoreA

Zesty Wasabi

Wasabia japonica

Clinical Encyclopedia

Zesty wasabi is a pungent and flavorful condiment derived from the wasabi plant, known for its sharp taste and potential health benefits. It is commonly used in Japanese cuisine, particularly with sushi and sashimi.

Also known as:
Japanese horseradishWasabi root
Scientific NameWasabia japonica
Region of OriginJapan

Macronutrient Ratio

Caloric distribution of primary energy metrics per 100g

Calories148 kcal
Water
92%
Fiber2g
Total38.4g
Protein
4.3g(11%)
Fats
0.6g(2%)
Carbohydrates
33.5g(87%)

Micronutrient DV% Score

Top vitamins and minerals ranked by percentage of Daily Recommended Value

Vitamins (DV%)
Minerals (DV%)

Complete Micronutrient Breakdown

Detailed concentration of essential micronutrients per 100g serving.

Vitamins

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Vitamin C24 mg (27%)
Vitamin b1 (thiamine)0.02 mg (2%)
Vitamin b2 (riboflavin)0.03 mg (2%)
Vitamin b3 (niacin)0.5 mg (3%)
Vitamin b5 (pantothenic acid)0.2 mg (4%)
Vitamin b6 (pyridoxine)0.1 mg (5%)
Vitamins with less than 2% DV
Vitamin K: 0.6 mcgFolate: 5 mcgVitamin B12: 0 mcgCholine: 2 mg

Minerals

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Calcium30 mg (2%)
Iron0.5 mg (3%)
Magnesium15 mg (4%)
Phosphorus20 mg (2%)
Potassium300 mg (6%)
Zinc0.4 mg (4%)
Copper0.1 mg (11%)
Manganese0.2 mg (9%)
Minerals with less than 2% DV
Selenium: 0.2 mcg

Health Benefits

Wasabi contains compounds that may have anti-inflammatory properties, potentially aiding in reducing inflammation in the body.
It is rich in antioxidants, which can help combat oxidative stress and may contribute to overall health.

Possible Risks & Side Effects

!Excessive consumption may lead to gastrointestinal discomfort. Moderation is advised.

How to Prepare & Consume

Fresh wasabi is best grated just before use to preserve its flavor. It can be mixed with soy sauce or used as a condiment for various dishes.

Smart Selection & Storage

How to Select

Choose fresh wasabi root that is firm and free from blemishes. Avoid pre-packaged wasabi that may contain additives.

How to Store

Store fresh wasabi in the refrigerator wrapped in a damp cloth to maintain moisture.

Medicinal Profile & Bioactive Compounds

Therapeutic properties, key bioactive compounds, and clinical applications of this food.

Medicinal Properties
AntimicrobialAnti-inflammatory
Main Applications
Enhancing flavor in dishes
Potential respiratory health benefits
Bioactive Compounds
Allyl isothiocyanate

Known for its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.

How to Consume
Fresh, Paste, Powder
Did you know?

"Wasabi is often confused with horseradish, but true wasabi is much rarer and has a more complex flavor profile."

Myths vs Realities

MythWasabi is just horseradish.
RealityWhile they are similar, true wasabi has a distinct flavor and is less harsh than horseradish.
MythWasabi is only for sushi.
RealityWasabi can enhance a variety of dishes, including dressings and marinades.
MythAll wasabi is the same.
RealityTrue wasabi is rare and expensive; many products labeled as wasabi are actually horseradish.

Healthy Recipes

Zesty Wasabi Quinoa Salad

A refreshing quinoa salad with a zesty wasabi dressing, packed with colorful vegetables and protein-rich chickpeas.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked quinoa
  • 1/2 cup chickpeas, rinsed and drained
  • 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 cucumber, diced
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons wasabi paste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, chickpeas, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion.
  2. 2. In a small bowl, whisk together wasabi paste, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Pour the dressing over the salad, toss well, and serve chilled.

Wasabi Avocado Toast

A nutritious twist on classic avocado toast, enhanced with zesty wasabi for an extra kick.

Ingredients
  • 2 slices whole grain bread
  • 1 ripe avocado
  • 1 teaspoon wasabi paste
  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. Toast the whole grain bread until golden brown.
  2. 2. In a bowl, mash the avocado with wasabi paste, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Spread the wasabi avocado mixture on the toasted bread, sprinkle with sesame seeds, and garnish with fresh cilantro.

Wasabi Ginger Grilled Salmon

Delicious grilled salmon fillets marinated in a zesty wasabi and ginger sauce, perfect for a healthy dinner.

Ingredients
  • 4 salmon fillets
  • 2 tablespoons wasabi paste
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, mix wasabi paste, soy sauce, ginger, honey, olive oil, salt, and pepper to create the marinade.
  2. 2. Marinate the salmon fillets for at least 30 minutes.
  3. 3. Grill the salmon on medium heat for about 5-6 minutes on each side or until cooked through.

Spicy Wasabi Hummus

A creamy and spicy hummus dip that combines traditional flavors with zesty wasabi for a unique twist.

Ingredients
  • 1 can chickpeas, rinsed and drained
  • 2 tablespoons tahini
  • 2 tablespoons wasabi paste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 garlic clove
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • Salt to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a food processor, combine chickpeas, tahini, wasabi paste, olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and salt.
  2. 2. Blend until smooth, adding water if necessary to reach desired consistency.
  3. 3. Serve with fresh vegetables or whole grain crackers.

Wasabi Cucumber Sushi Rolls

Healthy sushi rolls filled with fresh vegetables and a zesty wasabi kick, perfect for a light meal or snack.

Ingredients
  • 2 sheets nori
  • 1 cup sushi rice, cooked
  • 1/2 cucumber, julienned
  • 1/2 avocado, sliced
  • 1 tablespoon wasabi paste
  • Soy sauce for dipping
Instructions
  1. 1. Lay a sheet of nori on a bamboo sushi mat, spread half of the sushi rice evenly over it.
  2. 2. Place cucumber and avocado slices on top of the rice, and add a thin layer of wasabi paste.
  3. 3. Roll tightly, slice into pieces, and serve with soy sauce.

Zesty Wasabi Roasted Vegetables

An array of colorful roasted vegetables tossed in a wasabi-infused dressing for a flavorful side dish.

Ingredients
  • 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, bell peppers, zucchini)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon wasabi paste
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. 2. In a bowl, mix olive oil, wasabi paste, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Toss the mixed vegetables in the dressing, spread on a baking sheet, and roast for 20-25 minutes until tender.

Wasabi Lime Shrimp Skewers

Grilled shrimp skewers marinated in a zesty wasabi and lime mixture, perfect for a healthy summer barbecue.

Ingredients
  • 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 2 tablespoons wasabi paste
  • Juice of 2 limes
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Skewers
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, combine wasabi paste, lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper to create the marinade.
  2. 2. Add shrimp to the marinade and let sit for 30 minutes.
  3. 3. Thread shrimp onto skewers and grill for 2-3 minutes on each side until cooked through.

Wasabi Infused Greek Yogurt Dip

A creamy and tangy Greek yogurt dip infused with zesty wasabi, perfect for healthy snacking.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup Greek yogurt
  • 1 tablespoon wasabi paste
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice
  • Salt to taste
  • Fresh vegetables for dipping
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, combine Greek yogurt, wasabi paste, garlic powder, lemon juice, and salt.
  2. 2. Mix until smooth and well combined.
  3. 3. Serve with fresh vegetables for dipping.

Wasabi Sweet Potato Mash

A nutritious and flavorful twist on traditional mashed potatoes, using sweet potatoes and zesty wasabi.

Ingredients
  • 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • 2 tablespoons wasabi paste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Boil sweet potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
  2. 2. Drain and return to the pot, add wasabi paste, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Mash until smooth and serve warm.

Wasabi Citrus Dressing for Salads

A light and zesty dressing that combines citrus flavors with wasabi, perfect for drizzling over salads.

Ingredients
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons wasabi paste
  • Juice of 1 orange
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a jar, combine olive oil, wasabi paste, orange juice, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
  2. 2. Shake well until emulsified.
  3. 3. Drizzle over your favorite salad and toss to combine.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is wasabi?

Wasabi is a plant native to Japan, known for its pungent flavor and is commonly used as a condiment.

Is wasabi healthy?

Yes, wasabi contains antioxidants and may have anti-inflammatory properties.

How should I store wasabi?

Fresh wasabi should be kept in the refrigerator, wrapped in a damp cloth.

Can I use horseradish instead of wasabi?

While horseradish can be used as a substitute, it lacks the unique flavor profile of true wasabi.

Does wasabi have any side effects?

In moderation, wasabi is safe, but excessive consumption may cause stomach upset.

How is wasabi prepared?

Wasabi is typically grated fresh or mixed into a paste for use as a condiment.

What dishes can I use wasabi with?

Wasabi is commonly paired with sushi, sashimi, and can also enhance dressings and marinades.

Is wasabi gluten-free?

Yes, pure wasabi is gluten-free, but check for additives in prepared products.