If you’re craving something fresh, vibrant, and packed with flavor, you absolutely need to try this Easy Crunchy Asian Cabbage Slaw with Addictive Sesame Dressing Recipe. It’s the perfect harmony of crisp cabbage, sweet carrots, and bright herbs, all tossed in a luscious, nutty dressing that will have you coming back for more. Whether you’re making a quick lunch, a side for dinner, or a dish to impress guests, this slaw brings a delightful crunch with every bite and a deeply satisfying blend of Asian-inspired flavors that feel both comforting and exotic at the same time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What’s fantastic about this recipe is how simple but essential the ingredients are — each one contributes its own magic to create that perfect balance of taste, texture, and color. You’ll love how easy it is to gather these pantry staples and fresh produce, knowing they’re coming together for something extraordinary.
- 4 cups shredded cabbage (green or purple or a mix of both): The crunchy base that makes this slaw so refreshing and satisfying.
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots: Adds a touch of natural sweetness and vibrant orange color.
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions: Offers a subtle, savory punch and fresh aroma.
- 1/4 cup cilantro leaves, chopped (optional): Brings a bright, herby contrast that livens every bite.
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional, for garnish): Adds a nutty crunch that elevates the texture beautifully.
- 1 tablespoon roasted peanuts (optional, for garnish): Provides richness and an irresistibly crunchy finish.
- 1/4 cup soy sauce: Delivers the salty, umami foundation of the dressing.
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar: Adds a zingy acidity that brightens the salad perfectly.
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup: Balances the sharpness with some natural sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil: Infuses that iconic toasted sesame flavor that makes the dressing addictive.
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil: Lightens the dressing and helps everything coat the veggies evenly.
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger: Adds warmth and a slight spicy kick that wakes up your taste buds.
- 1 garlic clove, minced: Brings savory depth and amplifies the overall flavor.
- 1 teaspoon chili garlic sauce or sriracha (optional, for spice): For those who like their slaw with a little heat and complexity.
How to Make Easy Crunchy Asian Cabbage Slaw with Addictive Sesame Dressing Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Veggies
Start by shredding your cabbage and carrots and chopping the green onions and cilantro. Toss them all together in a large bowl so the colorful mix is ready to catch every bit of dressing you’ll pour over later.
Step 2: Whisk the Sesame Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey or maple syrup, sesame oil, vegetable oil, grated ginger, minced garlic, and the chili garlic sauce if you want a spicy edge. This dressing is the heart of the dish, combining sweet, salty, tangy, and nutty notes that are simply irresistible.
Step 3: Combine and Toss
Pour your addictive sesame dressing over the vegetable mixture and toss thoroughly. Make sure every shred of cabbage and carrot is coated evenly so every bite bursts with flavor.
Step 4: Garnish and Chill
Sprinkle with sesame seeds and roasted peanuts if using, then either serve right away for that crisp freshness or refrigerate for about 30 minutes to let the flavors meld beautifully.
How to Serve Easy Crunchy Asian Cabbage Slaw with Addictive Sesame Dressing Recipe
Garnishes
Adding toasted sesame seeds and roasted peanuts not only gives a lovely nutty flavor but also adds a beautiful crunchy texture to the slaw. Don’t hesitate to toss in some extra cilantro leaves or a squeeze of lime for a bright finish.
Side Dishes
This slaw pairs wonderfully as a side with grilled chicken, fish, or pork, and it’s just as fabulous alongside Asian-inspired mains like stir-fries or steamed dumplings. It also makes a fantastic topping for tacos or sandwiches if you want a crunchy, zesty upgrade.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this colorful slaw in vibrant bowls or on a big platter as a centerpiece for your table spread. For a fun twist, stuff it into lettuce cups or use it to top rice noodle bowls for a fresh and crunchy texture contrast.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your slaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Because of the dressing, the cabbage will soften over time but will still be tasty and great for meal prep or next-day lunches.
Freezing
This slaw is best enjoyed fresh and does not freeze well because the cabbage and dressing tend to lose their crisp texture the longer they’re stored.
Reheating
Since this is a cold slaw, reheating isn’t typically necessary. If you prefer a warm option, serve it as a fresh topping rather than heating it, keeping the crunch and vibrancy intact.
FAQs
Can I use red cabbage instead of green cabbage?
Absolutely! Red cabbage adds a gorgeous purple hue and a slightly earthier flavor, which works perfectly in this recipe. Feel free to mix both for a colorful slaw.
Is there a substitute for sesame oil?
If you don’t have sesame oil on hand, you can use toasted walnut or peanut oil to maintain that nutty flavor, though sesame oil offers the most authentic aroma for this dish.
How spicy is the slaw with chili garlic sauce?
The chili garlic sauce adds a gentle heat that tingles but doesn’t overpower the other flavors. You can adjust the amount or leave it out altogether if you prefer it mild.
Can I prepare the dressing in advance?
Yes! The dressing can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge, which actually allows the flavors to blend more deeply. Just whisk again before tossing with the veggies.
Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
Definitely! Using maple syrup instead of honey keeps it vegan-friendly, and all the other ingredients are plant-based.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Crunchy Asian Cabbage Slaw with Addictive Sesame Dressing Recipe is truly one of those dishes that feels like a little celebration in your mouth every time you eat it. Its simplicity in ingredients and quick preparation makes it a go-to for any occasion. I can’t wait for you to try it and see how effortlessly it becomes a beloved favorite in your home too.
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Easy Crunchy Asian Cabbage Slaw with Addictive Sesame Dressing Recipe
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A quick and easy crunchy Asian cabbage slaw featuring a vibrant, addictive sesame dressing made with soy sauce, sesame oil, ginger, and a hint of honey. Perfect as a refreshing side dish or light lunch, this slaw combines shredded cabbage, carrots, and green onions for a colorful and flavorful salad that can be garnished with sesame seeds and roasted peanuts for extra texture.
Ingredients
Slaw Ingredients
- 4 cups shredded cabbage (green, purple, or a mix)
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro leaves (optional)
Sesame Dressing Ingredients
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 teaspoon chili garlic sauce or sriracha (optional)
Garnish (Optional)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- 1 tablespoon roasted peanuts
Instructions
- Prepare the Vegetables: In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, shredded carrots, chopped green onions, and chopped cilantro if using. Mix well to distribute the ingredients evenly.
- Make the Dressing: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey or maple syrup, sesame oil, vegetable oil, grated ginger, minced garlic, and chili garlic sauce or sriracha if you desire some heat, until well combined.
- Toss the Slaw: Pour the sesame dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss thoroughly to ensure every piece is coated with the flavorful dressing.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle sesame seeds and roasted peanuts over the top to add a crunchy texture and extra nutty flavor. Serve immediately for maximum crispness, or refrigerate for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Notes
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari in the dressing.
- You can substitute honey with maple syrup to make it vegan.
- Adjust the amount of chili garlic sauce or sriracha to control the spiciness.
- Refrigerate the slaw up to 1 day for the freshest taste and texture.
- Add shredded red bell peppers or sliced almonds for additional crunch and color.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Asian
