Introduction
Looking for a refreshing and vibrant dish that’s packed with flavor and crunch? Look no further than this Crunchy Asian Cabbage Slaw with Sesame Dressing. This delightful slaw combines the crisp textures of green and red cabbage with the subtle sweetness of carrots and bell peppers, all brought together by a luscious sesame dressing. It’s the perfect side dish for barbecues, picnics, or even as a flavorful topping for tacos. With its array of colorful vegetables and aromatic herbs, this slaw is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes.
Ingredients
- 4 cups green cabbage, finely shredded
- 1 cup red cabbage, finely shredded
- 1 cup carrots, grated
- 1 bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup green onions, chopped
- 1/4 cup sesame seeds, toasted
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
Dressing:
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 teaspoon sriracha (optional)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Directions and Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the finely shredded green cabbage and red cabbage, grated carrots, thinly sliced bell pepper, chopped green onions, toasted sesame seeds, and fresh cilantro. The colors will pop beautifully, making it irresistible!
- In a separate smaller bowl, whisk together all the dressing ingredients: soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey (or maple syrup), grated ginger, minced garlic, and sriracha (if using). Whisk until everything is well combined and the mixture is smooth.
- Pour the dressing over the vibrant cabbage mixture, ensuring all the fresh ingredients get coated in that glorious, tangy flavor.
- Toss everything together well to ensure an even distribution of the dressing and flavors throughout the slaw.
- Allow the slaw to sit for at least 10 minutes before serving. This resting time lets the flavors meld beautifully, turning every bite into a burst of deliciousness.
- Serve the slaw chilled or at room temperature. Give it a gentle toss again before serving to revitalize those flavors.
Notes or Tips
Feel free to customize this slaw! Add in some edamame for extra protein or switch up the veggies with whatever you have on hand. You can also adjust the sweetness of the dressing to your liking, making it more or less sweet by altering the amount of honey or maple syrup.
Cooking Techniques
This slaw requires no cooking, making it a perfect recipe for hot summer days when you want to keep things cool and simple. Just be sure to finely shred the cabbage and vegetables for the best texture, and don’t forget to toast your sesame seeds—this enhances their nutty flavor and adds delightful crunch!
FAQ
Can I make this slaw in advance?
Yes! This slaw can be made a few hours ahead of time. Just be sure to keep it in the refrigerator to stay fresh.
What can I serve this slaw with?
This delicious slaw pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, as a side dish for Asian-inspired meals, or even as a topping for sandwiches and burgers.
Conclusion
This Crunchy Asian Cabbage Slaw with Sesame Dressing is not just another salad—it’s a celebration of flavors and textures that will enliven your meals. Quick to prepare and bursting with freshness, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. Enjoy every crunchy bite!