If you’re searching for a refreshing dish that embodies vibrant flavors and a satisfying crunch, look no further than this Easy Crunchy Asian Cabbage Slaw with Addictive Sesame Dressing. Perfect as a side or even as a main attraction on its own, this slaw combines fresh vegetables with a zingy dressing that transforms basic ingredients into a culinary masterpiece. With its crispy texture and colorful presentation, this slaw is bound to impress at any gathering and will have everyone reaching for more.
Not only is this dish bursting with flavor, it also brings an array of health benefits thanks to the use of fresh cabbage, carrots, and herbs. Cabbage is known for its high fiber content, making this slaw a great addition to a balanced diet. Plus, the combination of sesame oil, ginger, and garlic in the dressing offers an appetizing punch, making every bite delectable! That practicality is further enhanced by its simple preparation, which makes it accessible for cooks of all skill levels.
Why You’ll Love This Easy Crunchy Asian Cabbage Slaw with Addictive Sesame Dressing
- Vibrant and Fresh: The colorful array of vegetables makes this slaw not only visually appealing but also packed with nutrients.
- Customizable: You can easily modify the ingredients to suit your taste preferences or to use what you have on hand.
- Quick Preparation: This recipe can be made in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for a busy weeknight or an impromptu gathering.
- Flavorful Dressing: The addictive sesame dressing ties everything together, creating layers of flavor in every bite.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before diving into making your Easy Crunchy Asian Cabbage Slaw, it’s important to prepare both your kitchen and the necessary tools. Gather a large mixing bowl, a cutting board, and a sharp knife – the keys to efficiently chopping your vegetables. If you have a mandoline slicer, it’s a great tool to achieve uniform slices, especially for cabbage and carrots. A whisk will be essential for blending the dressing components smoothly. Make sure to have a measuring cup and spoons on hand to ensure accuracy.
If you’re using freshly roasted peanuts, have them prepared ahead of time or simply buy pre-chopped options for added convenience. It’s also beneficial to create a clean working area, keeping your ingredients organized and within reach to streamline the cooking process. Once everything is prepped, you’ll be ready to create a slaw that will blow your taste buds away!
Ingredients
- 1 medium napa cabbage (about 2 lbs), finely shredded
- 2 cups purple cabbage, thinly sliced
- 1 large carrot, cut into matchsticks
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 4 green onions, sliced on the diagonal
- ½ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- ¼ cup toasted sesame seeds
- ½ cup roasted peanuts, chopped (optional)
- 3 tablespoons sesame oil (not toasted)
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey (or maple syrup for vegan)
- 1 teaspoon finely grated fresh ginger
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tablespoon tahini
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Cabbage
Begin by finely shredding the napa cabbage. Place it into a large bowl and sprinkle with a pinch of salt. Let it rest for about 5 minutes; this process will help extract excess moisture from the cabbage, resulting in a crunchier slaw. Once it has rested, gently pat the cabbage dry with paper towels to remove any residual moisture.
Step 2: Chop the Veggies
Next, focus on the colorful mix of vegetables. Julienne the carrot into matchsticks, ensuring that they are uniform for even texture. For the purple cabbage, slice it slightly thicker alongside the red bell pepper to bring out their natural sweetness and flavor. Finally, slice the green onions on a diagonal to add an aesthetic touch to the slaw.
Step 3: Mix the Dressing
In a separate bowl, it’s time to whisk together the dressing. Combine the sesame oil, rice vinegar, low-sodium soy sauce, and honey (or maple syrup for our vegan friends) until well blended. Incorporate the freshly grated ginger and minced garlic for added depth. If you enjoy a kick, throw in the red pepper flakes and the tahini for creaminess, whisking until smooth.
Step 4: Toss the Slaw
In your large bowl, combine all of the prepared vegetables together. Once evenly mixed, drizzle the sesame dressing over the slaw and gently toss everything together, ensuring that each piece is coated with the frothy mixture.
Step 5: Add Crunch
Finally, finish off your slaw by topping it with the toasted sesame seeds and optional chopped peanuts for that final layer of crunch. Toss the mixture again to distribute these toppings evenly. Taste and adjust seasonings if necessary, adding more soy sauce or honey to your liking.
Variations
- Protein: Add shredded rotisserie chicken, grilled shrimp, or tofu to make this slaw a hearty meal.
- Vegetables: Consider adding sliced radishes, snap peas, or julienned zucchini for extra crunch and nutrition.
- Spices: For an extra kick, include a dash of sriracha or chili paste in the dressing to elevate the flavors.
Cooking Notes
- Ensure to use fresh vegetables for the best flavor; wilted veggies can detract from the dish’s overall appeal.
- To store leftovers, keep the dressing separate to maintain the crispness of the slaw as it will absorb moisture over time.
Serving Suggestions
- Enjoy this slaw as an accompaniment to grilled meats or fish for a colorful and nutritious balance.
- Serve it in tacos for an added crunch, or as a topping on sandwiches for a refreshing twist.
Tips
- For added flavor, allow the slaw to sit for about 10-15 minutes after assembling to let the flavors meld together before serving.
- Experiment with different vinegars such as apple cider or white vinegar for alternative flavor profiles.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 120 per serving (without peanuts)
- Protein: 4g
- Sodium: 200mg
FAQs
Can I make this slaw ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the slaw ahead of time but keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve. This will help the veggies stay crispy.
Is this slaw vegan-friendly?
Absolutely! Just swap honey with maple syrup and you have a delightful vegan side dish.
Can I use other types of cabbage?
Yes! You can substitute napa cabbage with other varieties like green cabbage or savoy for a different texture and flavor.
What can I serve with this slaw?
This slaw pairs well with grilled chicken, fish, or is perfect to add to a rice bowl for a balanced meal.
Conclusion
This Easy Crunchy Asian Cabbage Slaw with Addictive Sesame Dressing is not just a side dish; it’s a vibrant testament to the power of fresh, simple ingredients coming together to create something extraordinary. Each crisp bite brings not only flavor but also a texture that is both satisfying and refreshing. Whether served alongside your favorite protein or enjoyed as a standalone vegetarian delight, this slaw has the potential to become a staple at your dining table. We invite you to try this recipe, share your thoughts in the comments, and let us know how you’ve made it your own with exciting variations. Get creative!
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Easy Crunchy Asian Cabbage Slaw with Addictive Sesame Dressing
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
A vibrant slaw that combines crunchy vegetables with an addictive sesame dressing.
Ingredients
- 1 medium napa cabbage (about 2 lbs), finely shredded
- 2 cups purple cabbage, thinly sliced
- 1 large carrot, cut into matchsticks
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 4 green onions, sliced on the diagonal
- ½ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- ¼ cup toasted sesame seeds
- ½ cup roasted peanuts, chopped (optional)
- 3 tablespoons sesame oil (not toasted)
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey (or maple syrup for vegan)
- 1 teaspoon finely grated fresh ginger
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tablespoon tahini
Instructions
- Begin by finely shredding the napa cabbage. Place it into a large bowl and sprinkle with a pinch of salt. Let it rest for about 5 minutes; this process will help extract excess moisture from the cabbage, resulting in a crunchier slaw. Once it has rested, gently pat the cabbage dry with paper towels to remove any residual moisture.
- Next, focus on the colorful mix of vegetables. Julienne the carrot into matchsticks, ensuring that they are uniform for even texture. For the purple cabbage, slice it slightly thicker alongside the red bell pepper to bring out their natural sweetness and flavor. Finally, slice the green onions on a diagonal to add an aesthetic touch to the slaw.
- In a separate bowl, it’s time to whisk together the dressing. Combine the sesame oil, rice vinegar, low-sodium soy sauce, and honey (or maple syrup for our vegan friends) until well blended. Incorporate the freshly grated ginger and minced garlic for added depth. If you enjoy a kick, throw in the red pepper flakes and the tahini for creaminess, whisking until smooth.
- In your large bowl, combine all of the prepared vegetables together. Once evenly mixed, drizzle the sesame dressing over the slaw and gently toss everything together, ensuring that each piece is coated with the frothy mixture.
- Finally, finish off your slaw by topping it with the toasted sesame seeds and optional chopped peanuts for that final layer of crunch. Toss the mixture again to distribute these toppings evenly. Taste and adjust seasonings if necessary, adding more soy sauce or honey to your liking.
Notes
Ensure to use fresh vegetables for the best flavor; wilted veggies can detract from the dish’s overall appeal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Side
Nutrition
- Calories: 120 kcal
- Sodium: 200 mg
- Protein: 4 g