Name: Crunchy Asian Cabbage Slaw with Sesame Dressing Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 4 cups green cabbage, thinly sliced; 2 cups red cabbage, thinly sliced; 1 cup shredded carrots; 3 green onions, thinly sliced; 2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil; 2 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium); 1½ tablespoons rice vinegar; 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup; 1 teaspoon fresh grated garlic; 1 teaspoon fresh grated ginger; 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional); 1 tablespoon sesame seeds

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 39 reviews

If you’re craving a salad that bursts with vibrant flavors and a fantastic crunch, you’re in for a treat with this Crunchy Asian Cabbage Slaw with Sesame Dressing Recipe. It’s one of those dishes that feels light and refreshing, yet deeply satisfying thanks to its perfect balance of crisp cabbage, sweet carrots, and an addictive sesame dressing that ties everything together in a bright, bold way. Whether you’re looking for an easy side to complement grilled meats, a quick lunch, or a colorful addition to your meal prep routine, this slaw always delivers with its irresistible texture and flavor harmony.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A tall mound of colorful salad is piled high on a white plate with a speckled rim, placed on a white marbled surface. The salad has multiple layers starting with light green leafy cabbage at the bottom, followed by shreds of bright orange carrots mixed with deep purple cabbage strips. Scattered throughout are small pieces of green onions adding a fresher green tone. The whole salad is sprinkled generously with tiny off-white sesame seeds, giving a crunchy texture on top. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are refreshingly simple, yet each one plays an essential role in creating the perfect flavor and texture profile of the slaw. From the crunchy cabbages to the nutty sesame oil, every component adds a splash of color, depth, or zing to make this salad pop.

Green cabbage: Thinly sliced for that classic crisp bite and vibrant pale green color.
Red cabbage: Adds stunning color contrast and a bit firmer crunch.
Carrots: Shredded for natural sweetness and a lovely orange hue.
Green onions: Thinly sliced to bring a mild, fresh peppery note.
Toasted sesame oil: The heart of the dressing, offering a rich, nutty aroma.
Soy sauce (low sodium): Adds umami depth without overpowering.
Rice vinegar: Brings bright acidity to balance the flavors perfectly.
Honey or maple syrup: Just a touch of sweetness to harmonize the tang and saltiness.
Fresh grated garlic: Invigorates with a sharp, fragrant kick.
Fresh grated ginger: Adds a warm, zesty spice that’s unmistakably Asian-inspired.
Dijon mustard (optional): A subtle layer of complexity and slight creaminess in the dressing.
Sesame seeds: The final crunch and visual finishing touch.

How to Make Crunchy Asian Cabbage Slaw with Sesame Dressing Recipe

Step 1: Whisk the Dressing

Start by combining all the dressing ingredients in a small bowl—sesame oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, fresh garlic, ginger, and Dijon mustard if you’re using it. Whisk them together until the mixture is smooth and slightly glossy. This step ensures all those bold flavors marry beautifully to create the addictive dressing that makes this slaw stand out.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

While you’re making the dressing, thinly slice the green and red cabbage for maximum crunch and vivid color. Shred the carrots finely, and thinly slice the green onions. Toss these fresh veggies into a large mixing bowl, making a colorful base that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.

Step 3: Combine and Toss

Pour the dressing over the cabbage and carrot mixture. Toss everything together gently but thoroughly, ensuring each shred is evenly coated. This is where the magic happens—the tangy, nutty dressing perfectly clings to every crunchy bite, elevating the simple veggies into something special.

Step 4: Let Flavors Meld

Patience is key here! Allow the slaw to rest at room temperature or chilled for about 10 to 15 minutes. This lets the dressing soak in, softening the cabbages just enough without losing their snap, and deepens the complexity of the flavors.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Right before serving, sprinkle the toasted sesame seeds on top for a delightful little pop of texture and an extra layer of nuttiness. Now your Crunchy Asian Cabbage Slaw with Sesame Dressing Recipe is ready to impress!

How to Serve Crunchy Asian Cabbage Slaw with Sesame Dressing Recipe

Crunchy Asian Cabbage Slaw with Sesame Dressing Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

To add a finishing flourish, think beyond sesame seeds. Fresh cilantro, chopped peanuts, or even a sprinkle of chili flakes can amp up the flavor and add exciting textures. These garnishes make the slaw look as good as it tastes and offer lovely bursts of interest with each bite.

Side Dishes

This slaw is a dream teammate for a variety of meals. It pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, fish, or shrimp, acting as a refreshing counterpoint to smoky, savory mains. It’s also perfect alongside Asian-inspired dishes like teriyaki bowls, Korean BBQ, or Vietnamese spring rolls.

Creative Ways to Present

Don’t just serve it in a bowl—use vibrant lettuce cups or crunchy wonton wrappers for a fun handheld appetizer. Layer it in a wrap with your favorite protein and some sliced avocado for a quick lunch. The versatility of this Crunchy Asian Cabbage Slaw with Sesame Dressing Recipe means you can get creative and make it your own anytime.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This slaw keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to deepen but keep in mind that the cabbage will soften a bit over time, though it will still maintain a pleasant crunch.

Freezing

Because of the fresh veggies and the crisp texture, freezing is not recommended for this slaw. The cabbage will become watery and lose its characteristic crunch after thawing.

Reheating

This slaw is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature. It’s not intended for reheating, so simply take it out of the fridge about 15 minutes before serving if you prefer it less chilled.

FAQs

Can I make the dressing ahead of time?

Absolutely! The sesame dressing can be prepared up to a week in advance and stored in the fridge. When you’re ready to use it, just give it a quick whisk before tossing with your vegetables.

What can I add to make this slaw a full meal?

Add your choice of grilled chicken, tofu, or shrimp to elevate the slaw into a satisfying main course. The protein pairs wonderfully with the crunchy slaw and savory dressing.

Is it okay to substitute ingredients?

Yes, you can! For example, you can swap honey with maple syrup to keep it vegan, or use tamari in place of soy sauce if you need gluten-free. Just keep the balance of sweet, salty, and tangy for the best results.

How do I get extra crunch in the slaw?

Try soaking the sliced cabbage in an ice bath for 10 minutes before tossing. This step firms up the cabbage and enhances that coveted crunch!

Can this slaw be made spicier?

Definitely! Adding a dash of chili flakes, sriracha, or fresh sliced jalapeños to the dressing gives it a delightful kick that complements the sesame flavors beautifully.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly comforting and energizing about this Crunchy Asian Cabbage Slaw with Sesame Dressing Recipe. It’s a dish that’s simple to pull together yet feels fresh and exciting every time. Whether you’re a seasoned salad lover or just dipping your toes into Asian flavors, this slaw will become a beloved staple that’s always ready to brighten up your table. Give it a try—you won’t regret it!