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Crunchy Asian Cabbage Slaw with Sesame Dressing Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.3 from 39 reviews
  • Author: Chef
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: Asian
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This Crunchy Asian Cabbage Slaw with Addictive Sesame Dressing is a bright, bold, and irresistible classic salad. Combining thinly sliced green and red cabbage with shredded carrots and green onions, it is tossed in a tangy and savory sesame dressing made with toasted sesame oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, fresh grated garlic and ginger, and Dijon mustard. Perfectly crunchy, fresh, and flavorful, this quick and easy slaw requires only 15 minutes and can be enjoyed as a side dish or a light meal on its own.


Ingredients

Vegetables

  • 4 cups green cabbage, thinly sliced
  • 2 cups red cabbage, thinly sliced
  • 1 cup shredded carrots
  • 3 green onions, thinly sliced

Sauce & Dressing

  • 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


Instructions

  1. Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together toasted sesame oil, low sodium soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), freshly grated garlic and ginger, and Dijon mustard until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
  2. Combine the vegetables: In a large mixing bowl, add the thinly sliced green cabbage, red cabbage, shredded carrots, and sliced green onions. Toss gently to mix evenly.
  3. Toss with dressing: Pour the prepared sesame dressing over the vegetable mixture. Toss thoroughly so that all the cabbage and carrots are evenly coated with the dressing.
  4. Let the flavors meld: Allow the slaw to sit for 10 to 15 minutes at room temperature. This resting time helps the flavors to blend and the cabbage to slightly soften while maintaining its crunch.
  5. Finish and serve: Just before serving, sprinkle the sesame seeds over the top of the slaw for added texture and visual appeal. Serve chilled or at room temperature as a refreshing side or light meal.

Notes

  • For an extra crunchy texture, soak the sliced cabbage in an ice bath for 10 minutes before tossing with the dressing.
  • Add grilled chicken, tofu, or shrimp to turn this slaw into a full, satisfying meal.
  • The sesame dressing can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 week, making meal prep quick and easy.