There’s a certain joy in preparing a dish that’s both colorful and refreshing, and this Asian Cabbage Slaw embodies that delight perfectly. Picture this: the crunch of crisp cabbage mingling with the sweetness of carrots and a vibrant pop of red bell pepper, all lightly tossed in a tangy sesame dressing. It’s like a party on your plate, and the best part? It’s ready in just 15 minutes.
I stumbled upon this recipe during a quest to elevate my weeknight meals, and now it’s become my go-to for bringing a burst of flavor and a healthy twist to any dinner spread. Whether you’re looking for a side to complement grilled chicken or a standalone dish that excites your taste buds, this slaw checks all the boxes. Its versatility makes it a staple in my kitchen, proving that easy homemade food can be both satisfying and delicious. Let’s dive into creating this flavorful masterpiece that transforms simple ingredients into something extraordinary!
Why You'll Love This Asian Cabbage Slaw
- This Asian Cabbage Slaw is incredibly easy to prepare, taking just 15 minutes from start to finish.
- The vibrant combination of flavors and textures creates a refreshing dish that everyone will enjoy.
- Its versatility allows it to pair beautifully with a variety of main dishes or even stand alone as a light meal.
- The stunning visual appeal of colorful vegetables tossed together will make this slaw a showstopper at any gathering.
Asian Cabbage Slaw Ingredients
Discover the essentials for crafting your refreshing Asian Cabbage Slaw.
For the Slaw
- Green cabbage – 4 cups, shredded – the main base that provides a crunchy texture.
- Carrots – 1 cup, shredded – adds natural sweetness and vibrant color.
- Red bell pepper – 1 cup, thinly sliced – brings a pop of color and crispness.
- Green onions – 1/2 cup, chopped – adds a fresh, mild onion flavor.
- Cilantro – 1/4 cup, chopped – enhances the dish with a bright, herbal note.
For the Dressing
- Sesame oil – 1/4 cup – provides a nutty richness that complements the slaw.
- Rice vinegar – 3 tablespoons – adds a tangy kick to balance the flavors.
- Soy sauce – 2 tablespoons – introduces umami depth to your Asian Cabbage Slaw.
- Honey – 1 tablespoon – brings a touch of sweetness to the dressing.
For the Topping
- Sesame seeds – 1 tablespoon – sprinkle on top for added crunch and a nutty flavor.
How to Make Asian Cabbage Slaw
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Combine the Veggies: In a large bowl, mix together the shredded green cabbage, carrots, thinly sliced red bell pepper, chopped green onions, and cilantro. This colorful medley sets the stage for your refreshing slaw.
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Whisk the Dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together the sesame oil, rice vinegar, soy sauce, and honey until well combined. This dressing adds a delightful tanginess that’s simply irresistible.
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Dress the Slaw: Pour the delicious dressing over your slaw mixture, and gently toss everything together to ensure each crunchy bite is coated in flavor.
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Add the Toppings: Sprinkle the sesame seeds on top of the slaw, giving it a final mix to combine. This adds an inviting finishing touch and a satisfying crunch.
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Let it Rest: Allow your Asian Cabbage Slaw to sit for about 15 minutes before serving. This time helps the flavors meld beautifully, making every bite even more delightful.
Optional: Serve chilled for an extra refreshing experience.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Asian Cabbage Slaw
- Fridge: Keep your Asian Cabbage Slaw in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain its freshness and crispness.
- Freezer: While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the slaw in a well-sealed bag for up to one month. Note that the texture may change after thawing.
- Reheating: If you’ve already dressed the slaw, eat it cold or at room temperature. If freezing un-dressed slaw, thaw it in the fridge overnight, and mix with fresh dressing before serving.
- Prep Ahead: For meal prep, store the chopped veggies separate from the dressing to keep everything crunchy until you’re ready to enjoy.
Asian Cabbage Slaw Variations
Feel free to explore new flavors and textures as you create your own twist on this vibrant slaw!
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Colorful Additions: Toss in shredded purple cabbage for a stunning visual contrast and a slightly earthier flavor. Each vibrant bite will excite your palate!
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Crunchy Nuts: Add chopped peanuts or almonds for an extra crunch and a boost of protein. This nutty element pairs beautifully with the sesame dressing.
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Spicy Kick: Mix in sliced jalapeños or a dash of sriracha for those who love a bit of heat. The spiciness enhances the overall flavor profile!
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Fruit Fusion: Incorporate diced mango or pineapple to add a sweet, tropical twist. This brightens the slaw and adds a playful note that’s simply irresistible.
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Herb Swap: Swap cilantro for fresh mint or basil to introduce a refreshing herbal twist. These options offer a unique dimension while keeping your slaw bright and tasty.
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Low-Sodium Delight: Use a low-sodium soy sauce alternative for a healthier version without sacrificing flavor. This simple switch keeps the dish wholesome yet delicious.
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Creamy Option: Incorporate a dollop of Greek yogurt into the dressing for a creamy version. It adds richness and pairs well with the crunch of the veggies, ensuring satisfaction in every bite.
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Roasted Veggies: Roast the bell peppers and carrots before adding them to the slaw for a warm, caramelized flavor. This adds a whole new layer of depth to your refreshing slaw.
What to Serve with Asian Cabbage Slaw?
Transform your meal into a colorful feast that tantalizes your taste buds with delightful pairings.
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Grilled Chicken: Perfectly seasoned chicken offers a savory contrast to the slaw’s sweet crunch, creating a well-rounded plate.
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Teriyaki Salmon: This flavorful fish pairs beautifully, its rich glaze complementing the freshness of the slaw. Let the flavors dance together.
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Quinoa Bowl: Earthy quinoa contrasts nicely with the slaw’s crispness, enriching your meal with nutrients and texture.
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Tofu Stir-fry: A plant-based option that brings a hearty feel while allowing the slaw’s brightness to shine. Add a splash of soy for extra flavor!
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Rice Noodles: Their delicate texture blends seamlessly, soaking up the dressing while adding a subtle heartiness to each bite.
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Lemonade or Iced Green Tea: Refreshing beverages that elevate the meal’s lightness, perfectly balancing the dish’s vibrant flavors.
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Mango Sorbet: End your meal on a sweet note with a refreshing dessert that enhances the tropical vibes of the slaw. It’s a delight for your palate!
Make Ahead Options
These Asian Cabbage Slaw preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during hectic weeknights! You can chop the cabbage, carrots, red bell pepper, green onions, and cilantro up to 24 hours in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. The dressing can also be whisked together a day prior and kept in a separate container, allowing the flavors to develop. When you’re ready to serve, simply combine the prepped ingredients, pour the dressing over the slaw, sprinkle with sesame seeds, and let it rest for about 15 minutes. This way, you’ll enjoy a vibrant, delicious Asian Cabbage Slaw just as fresh as if you made it all in one go!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When making Asian Cabbage Slaw, ensure to slice your vegetables uniformly for even crunch and flavor distribution.
- Avoid pre-shredded cabbage as it may contain preservatives that impact freshness.
- For the dressing, make sure to whisk thoroughly to combine the honey fully, which prevents clumping.
- Allow the slaw to sit for 15 minutes before serving, as this resting time enhances the overall flavor blend and texture.
Asian Cabbage Slaw Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best cabbage for my slaw?
Absolutely! Choose a cabbage that feels firm and heavy for its size. The outer leaves should be crisp and vibrant green without any dark spots or wilting. Aim for small to medium heads as they tend to be fresher and sweeter.
What’s the best way to store leftover Asian Cabbage Slaw?
To keep your Asian Cabbage Slaw fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps maintain its crunchiness and vibrant flavors. Just remember, if dressed, the veggies may soften, so it’s best to dress only what you plan to eat right away.
Can I freeze Asian Cabbage Slaw, and how should I do it?
Sure! While best fresh, if you want to freeze it, start by preparing the slaw without the dressing. Place it in a freezer-safe bag, squeezing out as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. It can be kept for up to 1 month. To use, thaw it overnight in the fridge and mix with fresh dressing just before serving to rejuvenate its flavors.
What should I do if my slaw is too watery after sitting?
No worries! If your slaw turns out too watery after sitting, this often happens because the cabbage releases moisture. Simply drain any excess liquid and toss the slaw with fresh veggies or add a sprinkle more sesame seeds for texture. This will help balance out the moisture and still keep it delicious.
Is this recipe suitable for people with allergies?
Very! This Asian Cabbage Slaw is naturally vegan and can be modified to avoid common allergens. If you’re allergic to soy, feel free to substitute the soy sauce with a gluten-free tamari or coconut aminos. Additionally, you can skip the honey for those who prefer a vegan sweetener or use maple syrup instead!
What can I pair this slaw with for a full meal?
The more the merrier! This slaw is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a protein boost. You can also serve it as a vibrant side with Asian-inspired dishes like teriyaki salmon or even as a fresh topping in tacos. Enjoy getting creative!
Equipment
- large bowl
- separate bowl
- Whisk
Ingredients
For the Slaw
- 4 cups green cabbage shredded
- 1 cup carrots shredded
- 1 cup red bell pepper thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup green onions chopped
- 1/4 cup cilantro chopped
For the Dressing
- 1/4 cup sesame oil
- 3 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
For the Topping
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
Instructions
How to Make Asian Cabbage Slaw
- In a large bowl, mix together the shredded green cabbage, carrots, thinly sliced red bell pepper, chopped green onions, and cilantro.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the sesame oil, rice vinegar, soy sauce, and honey until well combined.
- Pour the delicious dressing over your slaw mixture, and gently toss everything together.
- Sprinkle the sesame seeds on top of the slaw, giving it a final mix to combine.
- Allow your Asian Cabbage Slaw to sit for about 15 minutes before serving.
