If you’ve been on the lookout for a fresh, vibrant salad that excites your palate while being incredibly easy to make, this Crunchy Asian Cabbage Slaw with Addictive Sesame Dressing Recipe is absolutely for you. Bursting with colorful veggies and a dressing that perfectly balances tangy, sweet, and savory notes, this slaw offers delightful texture and flavor in every bite. Whether you’re serving it as a refreshing side or topping onto your favorite mains, this recipe is guaranteed to become a beloved staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t let the simplicity of these ingredients fool you — each one plays an important role in crafting that perfect harmony of crunch, zest, and aroma characteristic of this Crunchy Asian Cabbage Slaw with Addictive Sesame Dressing Recipe.
- 4 cups shredded green cabbage: The crunchy base that keeps every bite satisfying and fresh.
- 2 cups shredded red cabbage: Adds vibrant color and a slightly peppery contrast.
- 1 cup shredded carrots: Naturally sweet and brightens the slaw visually and taste-wise.
- ½ red bell pepper, thinly sliced: Introduces a juicy crunch and subtle sweetness.
- 2 green onions, sliced: Offers a mild, fresh bite that lifts the flavors.
- ¼ cup chopped cilantro: Brings a fragrant herbaceous note to the mix.
- ¼ cup roasted peanuts or slivered almonds (optional): For that extra toasty texture and nutty richness.
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional): Adds subtle crunch and complements the dressing’s sesame flavor perfectly.
- 3 tablespoons rice vinegar: The tangy backbone of the dressing that brightens the entire dish.
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce: Provides umami depth and saltiness.
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil: Delivers rich, nutty aroma and authentic Asian flair.
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup: Balances acidity with a touch of sweet goodness.
- 1 tablespoon neutral oil (canola or avocado): Keeps the dressing smooth and cohesive.
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger: Adds a delightful zing and warmth.
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard or a small squeeze of sriracha (optional): Gives the dressing a subtle kick if you like a bit of heat.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to tie all the flavors together.
How to Make Crunchy Asian Cabbage Slaw with Addictive Sesame Dressing Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Combine the Veggies
The foundation of this recipe is all about fresh, shredded veggies. Begin by tossing together the shredded green and red cabbage, carrots, thinly sliced red bell pepper, green onions, and chopped cilantro in a large mixing bowl. This colorful blend promises a wonderful contrast of flavors and textures — the crunch of cabbage, the slight sweetness from carrots and bell pepper, and the aroma from fresh herbs.
Step 2: Whisk the Sesame Dressing
In a small bowl or jar, mix the rice vinegar, soy sauce, toasted sesame oil, honey or maple syrup, neutral oil, grated ginger, and either Dijon mustard or sriracha if you want a spicy twist. Whisk it all together until the dressing is beautifully emulsified. A pinch of salt and pepper will round out all those amazing flavors.
Step 3: Combine Dressing and Slaw
Pour the addictive sesame dressing over the veggie mixture and toss thoroughly so every shred of cabbage and carrot is coated with that lip-smacking sauce. Let the slaw sit for 10 to 15 minutes — this step is key because it allows the flavors to meld together while the cabbage retains its crispness. It’s pure magic when you taste it.
Step 4: Add Crunchy Toppings
Just before serving, sprinkle the slaw with roasted peanuts or slivered almonds along with sesame seeds for an irresistible crunch and nutty flavor contrast. These little finishing touches elevate the dish from great to unforgettable.
How to Serve Crunchy Asian Cabbage Slaw with Addictive Sesame Dressing Recipe
Garnishes
To add extra vibrancy and flavor, consider garnishing your Crunchy Asian Cabbage Slaw with fresh chopped cilantro or extra toasted sesame seeds. A wedge of lime on the side also livens things up with a zesty squeeze just before diving in.
Side Dishes
This slaw shines as a perfect side dish alongside grilled meats like chicken or pork, steamed dumplings, or crispy spring rolls. It’s also fabulous served with fluffy rice bowls or as a refreshing salad at your next barbecue to lighten up heavier fare.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, pile this slaw atop tacos or lettuce wraps to add crunch and bright flavors. You can even stuff it inside banh mi sandwiches or use it as a topping for avocado toast — the possibilities with this versatile Crunchy Asian Cabbage Slaw with Addictive Sesame Dressing Recipe are endless!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can keep leftover slaw fresh and crunchy by storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. It’s best to add the nuts and sesame seeds just before serving to retain their crispness.
Freezing
Because this slaw is all fresh veggies and dressing, freezing is not recommended. The texture and flavor will change once thawed, losing that signature crunch you love.
Reheating
This is a no-cook slaw designed to be enjoyed chilled or at room temperature. Reheating isn’t necessary and will diminish the wonderful textures and fresh flavor profile.
FAQs
Can I use different nuts instead of peanuts or almonds?
Absolutely! Cashews, pistachios, or even pumpkin seeds work wonderfully and provide new flavors and textures to customize this Crunchy Asian Cabbage Slaw with Addictive Sesame Dressing Recipe.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! To ensure it’s gluten-free, simply use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative instead of regular soy sauce. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
Can I make this slaw vegan?
Definitely! Use maple syrup or agave instead of honey, and the dressing stays just as deliciously addictive and flavorful.
How long can I prepare the slaw before serving?
For the best crunch, prepare it close to serving time or allow the slaw to rest 10–15 minutes after dressing to meld flavors. It’s still fantastic up to 2 days refrigerated, but fresh is always best.
What can I do if I don’t like spicy food?
Simply leave out the Dijon mustard or sriracha. The dressing is still wonderfully balanced and tasty without any heat.
Final Thoughts
This Crunchy Asian Cabbage Slaw with Addictive Sesame Dressing Recipe is the kind of dish you’ll want to make again and again because it’s simple, fresh, and bursting with flavor. It’s perfect for adding crunch and brightness to your meals, whether at weeknight dinners or special gatherings. Give it a try and watch it become your new go-to recipe — your taste buds will thank you!
Print
Crunchy Asian Cabbage Slaw with Addictive Sesame Dressing Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Side Dish, Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
- Diet: Vegan
Description
This Crunchy Asian Cabbage Slaw features a vibrant mix of shredded green and red cabbage, crisp carrots, and fresh bell pepper, all tossed in a flavorful and addictive sesame dressing. Enhanced with green onions, cilantro, and optional crunchy peanuts or almonds, this salad is perfect as a refreshing side or topping for tacos, rice bowls, and grilled meats. The slaw is quick to prepare, naturally vegan and gluten-free, and stays crisp for up to two days in the refrigerator.
Ingredients
For the Slaw:
- 4 cups shredded green cabbage
- 2 cups shredded red cabbage
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- ½ red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 2 green onions, sliced
- ¼ cup chopped cilantro
- ¼ cup roasted peanuts or slivered almonds (optional)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)
For the Sesame Dressing:
- 3 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon neutral oil (canola or avocado oil)
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard or a small squeeze of sriracha (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Combine the Vegetables: In a large mixing bowl, add the shredded green and red cabbage, shredded carrots, thinly sliced red bell pepper, sliced green onions, and chopped cilantro. Toss thoroughly to mix all the fresh vegetables evenly.
- Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together rice vinegar, soy sauce, toasted sesame oil, honey or maple syrup, neutral oil, freshly grated ginger, and Dijon mustard or sriracha if using. Season with salt and pepper to your taste, ensuring the flavors are balanced.
- Toss the Slaw with Dressing: Pour the prepared sesame dressing over the mixed vegetables. Toss well until every strand of cabbage and vegetable is evenly coated with the dressing for maximum flavor.
- Let Flavors Meld: Let the dressed slaw sit for 10 to 15 minutes at room temperature. This resting period allows the flavors to infuse and the cabbage to slightly soften while retaining its crunch.
- Add Crunchy Toppings and Serve: Just before serving, sprinkle the top with roasted peanuts or slivered almonds and sesame seeds for added texture and an extra nutty flavor. Serve fresh as a vibrant side dish or topping.
Notes
- This slaw works wonderfully as a side dish or an accompaniment on tacos, rice bowls, and grilled meats.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute soy sauce with tamari.
- The salad stays crisp and fresh in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- You can customize the dressing heat level by adjusting or omitting the sriracha or Dijon mustard.
- For a nut-free option, omit peanuts or almonds and increase sesame seeds for crunch.
