Although less common than its green counterpart, red shiso is an integral part of Japanese cuisine. Often used as a natural food coloring, it's commonly found lending its vivid red hue to things like umeboshi (pickled plums) and pickled ginger. Aside from its bright color, red shiso has a bright aroma and a unique, herbal flavor. Often slightly spicy and bitter with notes of mint, citrus, and cinnamon, it is quite refreshing. This red shiso dressing has a complex sour flavor layered with the umami of soy sauce and kelp and adds the perfect pop of freshness to any summer salad.