Introduction
Bright, colorful, and packed with a delightful crunch, this Crunchy Asian Cabbage Slaw with Sesame Dressing is a fantastic addition to any meal. Perfect for a summer gathering or a light weeknight dinner, this slaw is not only eye-catching but incredibly flavorful. The combination of fresh vegetables tossed in a tangy and sweet sesame dressing will have everyone reaching for seconds. Let’s dive into making this vibrant dish that bursts with flavor!
Ingredients
- 1 small head green cabbage, shredded
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 cup snow peas, trimmed and halved
- 1 cup green onions, sliced
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup toasted sesame seeds
For the dressing:
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 clove garlic, minced
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, vibrant carrots, crunchy bell pepper, sweet snow peas, and fresh green onions. Don’t forget to add in the fragrant cilantro – it’s what makes this slaw truly special!
- In a separate smaller bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, vegetable oil, ginger, and minced garlic. Mix until all the ingredients are well combined, creating a beautifully balanced dressing that’s both tangy and sweet.
- Pour the dressing generously over the slaw mixture. With gentle hands, toss everything together until the vegetables are well coated and glistening.
- Sprinkle the toasted sesame seeds over the top of the slaw. Give it another gentle toss to distribute them evenly throughout.
- For the best flavor, let the slaw sit for at least 15 minutes before serving. This allows the vibrant flavors to meld together beautifully, creating a delightful taste explosion in every bite.
Notes or Tips
Feel free to customize this slaw by adding other fresh vegetables like sliced radishes or cucumber for extra crunch. If you prefer a bit of heat, throw in some sliced jalapeños or a dash of chili sauce in the dressing. This slaw can be made ahead of time; just keep it refrigerated and toss it lightly just before serving for the freshest taste!
Cooking Techniques
While this slaw is super easy to prepare and requires no cooking, the art of tossing the vegetables gently is crucial. You want to maintain that glorious crunch! Additionally, making your dressing from scratch not only enhances the flavor but allows you to adjust the sweetness or acidity to your taste preferences.
FAQ
Can I make this slaw ahead of time?
Absolutely! This slaw can be prepared a few hours in advance. Just make sure to store it in the refrigerator. For best results, toss it again before serving.
How long does this slaw last in the fridge?
You can enjoy this slaw for up to 2 days when stored in an airtight container in the fridge. The flavors may deepen over time, but the veggies will lose some crunch.
Is this slaw vegan?
Yes! As long as you use a vegan-friendly soy sauce and honey alternative, this slaw is a delightful addition to a plant-based diet.
Conclusion
This Crunchy Asian Cabbage Slaw with Sesame Dressing is not just a side dish; it’s a celebration of textures and flavors that everyone will love. Enjoy it at barbecues, potlucks, or as a refreshing salad alongside your favorite main dish. Whip it up today and experience the crisp, refreshing crunch that will elevate any meal. Happy cooking!