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Fresh Asian Slaw with Sesame Ginger Dressing

Asian slaw with sesame ginger dressing - featured image

A quick and easy crunchy Asian slaw with a bright, tangy sesame ginger dressing that balances fresh veggies and bold flavors. Perfect as a side or light main dish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups green cabbage, thinly sliced
  • 2 cups red cabbage, thinly sliced
  • 1 cup carrots, julienned or shredded
  • 1 medium red bell pepper, thinly sliced
  • 3 stalks green onions, thinly sliced
  • ½ cup fresh cilantro leaves, chopped (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds
  • ¼ cup chopped roasted peanuts or cashews (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, finely grated
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 3 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce or tamari
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Vegetables (10-15 minutes): Thinly slice green and red cabbage to get about 4 cups and 2 cups respectively. Julienne or shred carrots, thinly slice red bell pepper and green onions. Chop cilantro if using. Toss all veggies in a large mixing bowl.
  2. Make the Sesame Ginger Dressing (5 minutes): In a small bowl or jar, combine grated ginger, minced garlic, soy sauce, rice vinegar, toasted sesame oil, honey, lime juice, and red pepper flakes if using. Whisk or shake until smooth and honey is fully incorporated.
  3. Combine and Toss (2-3 minutes): Pour dressing over the slaw base. Gently toss with tongs or spoons until veggies are evenly coated. Add extra rice vinegar or water if slaw seems dry.
  4. Add Crunchy Toppings (1-2 minutes): Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds and chopped nuts over the top for texture and flavor.
  5. Rest (optional, 10 minutes): Let the slaw sit at room temperature to meld flavors and soften cabbage slightly while keeping crunch.

Notes

Toast sesame seeds lightly in a dry pan before adding for enhanced nuttiness. Keep dressing separate until serving to prevent sogginess. Thin slicing cabbage is key for best texture. Can add protein like grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu to make a main dish. Variations include adding jalapeño for heat or swapping nuts for seeds for allergen-friendly options.

Nutrition

Keywords: Asian slaw, sesame ginger dressing, crunchy salad, healthy side dish, quick salad, gluten-free salad, vegan salad option