Looking for a vibrant and refreshing salad packed with flavor and crunch? This Crunchy Asian Slaw with Sesame Ginger Dressing is the perfect combination of crisp vegetables, nutty sesame seeds, and a tangy-sweet dressing. It’s a versatile dish that works as a side, a light lunch, or even a topping for tacos and sandwiches. The best part? It’s easy to make and can be prepared ahead of time!
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 20 minutes
- Resting time: 10 minutes (to let the flavors meld)
- Total time: 30 minutes
Ingredients
For the Slaw:
- 2 cups green cabbage, shredded
- 2 cups red cabbage, shredded
- 1 medium carrot, julienned
- ½ cucumber, thinly sliced
- ½ red onion, thinly sliced
- ¼ cup chopped cilantro
- ¼ cup chopped almonds or peanuts (optional)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
For the Sesame Ginger Dressing:
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for spice)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
- Wash and finely shred the green and red cabbage using a sharp knife or mandoline slicer.
- Peel and julienne the carrot into thin strips.
- Slice the cucumber and red onion thinly.
- Chop the cilantro and set all the vegetables in a large mixing bowl.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, sesame oil, grated ginger, mustard, garlic, and red pepper flakes.
- Continue whisking until well combined and smooth.
- Taste the dressing and adjust sweetness or acidity as needed.
Step 3: Combine and Toss
- Pour the dressing over the slaw and toss thoroughly to coat all ingredients.
- Sprinkle with chopped almonds or peanuts and sesame seeds for extra crunch.
Step 4: Let it Rest
- Allow the slaw to sit for 10 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors blend beautifully.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve chilled or at room temperature.
- Enjoy as a side dish with grilled meats or tofu.
- Use it as a topping for tacos, burgers, or rice bowls.
This Crunchy Asian Slaw with Sesame Ginger Dressing is an explosion of flavors and textures—crisp, fresh, tangy, and slightly sweet. It’s a perfect make-ahead dish that gets even better as it sits, making it great for meal prep, BBQs, or picnics. Try it today and enjoy a nutritious, colorful salad that pairs well with almost any meal!