Quick Bok Choy with Ginger Chili Sauce (Anti-Inflammatory Superfood Side)
If you’re looking for a healthy anti-inflammatory recipe, this Quick Bok Choy with Ginger Chili Sauce is a nutrient-dense, low-calorie, plant-based side dish packed with flavor and wellness benefits. Tender-crisp bok choy is topped with a bold ginger-garlic chili sauce that supports digestion, immunity, and overall health.
Perfect for clean eating, weight loss meal plans, vegan diets, and anti-inflammatory meal prep.
📝 Description
This easy Asian-inspired vegetable recipe combines lightly blanched or sautéed bok choy with a fragrant sauce made from fresh ginger, garlic, chili flakes, and heart-healthy oils.
Bok choy is rich in antioxidants, vitamin C, vitamin K, and fiber, while ginger and garlic are known for their anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties. The result is a simple yet gourmet vegetable dish that tastes restaurant-quality but is ready in under 15 minutes.
🛒 Ingredients (Serves 4)
For the Bok Choy:
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6–8 baby bok choy, halved lengthwise
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4 cups water (for blanching)
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½ tsp sea salt
For the Ginger Chili Sauce:
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2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil or avocado oil
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1 tbsp sesame oil
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1 tbsp fresh ginger, finely minced
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1–2 tsp red chili flakes (adjust to taste)
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1 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce or coconut aminos
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1 tsp rice vinegar or fresh lemon juice
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1 tsp raw honey or maple syrup (optional)
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2 tbsp chopped green onions
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1 tsp sesame seeds (optional garnish)
👩🍳 Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Bok Choy
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Rinse thoroughly to remove dirt between leaves.
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Bring salted water to a boil.
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Blanch bok choy for 1–2 minutes until tender-crisp.
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Immediately transfer to ice water to preserve color.
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Drain and arrange on a serving plate.
(Alternatively, steam for 3–4 minutes for maximum nutrient retention.)
Step 2: Make the Anti-Inflammatory Ginger Chili Sauce
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Heat olive oil in a small pan over medium-low heat.
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Add ginger and garlic. Sauté for 30–45 seconds (do not brown).
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Stir in chili flakes.
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Remove from heat and mix in soy sauce, vinegar, and honey.
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Spoon generously over bok choy.
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Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds.
Serve immediately.
🥗 Serving Suggestions
This versatile healthy side dish pairs well with:
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Grilled salmon (omega-3 rich anti-inflammatory meal)
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Brown rice or quinoa bowls
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Teriyaki tofu or baked tempeh
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Garlic shrimp
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Asian-inspired meal prep containers
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Low-carb keto dinners
You can also serve it chilled as a detox salad option.
🔄 Variations
1. Vegan & Whole30 Version
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Use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce
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Skip honey or use date syrup
2. High-Protein Upgrade
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Add crispy tofu cubes
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Top with hemp seeds
3. Spicy Chili Crisp Version
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Add 1 tbsp chili crisp oil for bold flavor
4. Gut-Healthy Fermented Twist
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Add a spoon of kimchi on the side
5. Garlic-Lemon Detox Style
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Increase lemon juice and add lemon zest
🌿 Anti-Inflammatory Benefits
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Bok Choy: High in antioxidants, supports bone health
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Ginger: Natural anti-inflammatory and digestive aid
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Garlic: Immune-boosting and heart-protective
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Olive Oil: Rich in healthy monounsaturated fats
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Chili Flakes: Boost metabolism and circulation
This dish fits well into a Mediterranean diet, plant-based diet, anti-inflammatory diet, and clean eating lifestyle.
❓ Related Questions People Ask
Is bok choy anti-inflammatory?
Yes. Bok choy contains antioxidants like vitamin C and beta-carotene that reduce inflammation.
Can I eat bok choy raw?
Yes, but light cooking improves digestibility and nutrient absorption.
Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Yes. It’s naturally low in carbs and high in nutrients.
Can I meal prep this?
Yes. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
What protein goes best with bok choy?
Salmon, tofu, shrimp, grilled chicken, or tempeh pair well.
📊 Nutrition Information (Per Serving – Approximate)
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Calories: 110
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Carbohydrates: 8g
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Fiber: 2g
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Protein: 3g
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Fat: 8g
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Vitamin C: 60% DV
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Vitamin K: 120% DV
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Folate: 15% DV
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Calcium: 10% DV
Low-calorie | Gluten-free option available | Dairy-free | Vegan-friendly
💡 Expert Tips
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Do not overcook bok choy — it should stay vibrant green.
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Always sauté garlic on low heat to avoid bitterness.
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Use fresh ginger for maximum anti-inflammatory benefits.
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Toast sesame seeds lightly for extra flavor.
🏁 Final Thoughts
This Quick Bok Choy with Ginger Chili Sauce is more than just a vegetable side dish — it’s a nutrient-dense superfood recipe perfect for anti-inflammatory meal plans, weight management, and clean eating goals.

