The vibrant crunch of fresh vegetables and the nutty aroma of sesame oil transport you to a bustling Asian market. This Simple Asian Coleslaw with Sesame Dressing comes together in just 15 minutes and is the perfect refreshing side dish, balancing textures and flavors seamlessly.
Perfect for anyone looking to add a crisp, healthy dish to their meal, it’s ideal for barbecues, potlucks, or even as a light lunch. You can easily make this ahead of time; just store it in the refrigerator and enjoy it chilled.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- This slaw features a delightful combination of textures from crunchy cabbage and grated carrots.
- The dressing is incredibly quick to whip up, taking only minutes.
- It’s a versatile dish that pairs well with various cuisines.
- The freshness of the ingredients shines through, making every bite satisfying.
What You’ll Need
To prepare this delicious coleslaw, gather the following ingredients:
For the Salad
- 4 cups green cabbage, thinly sliced
- 1 cup red cabbage, thinly sliced
- 1 cup carrots, grated
- 1/2 cup green onions, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
For the Dressing
- 1/4 cup sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
For Serving
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds
Note: Maple syrup can be used instead of honey.
Substitutions & Swaps
- Use purple cabbage instead of red.
- Swap honey for agave nectar.
- Replace sesame oil with olive oil.
- Omit cilantro if you dislike it.
How to Make It
Follow these steps to create a flavorful Asian slaw:
Combine vegetables
In a large bowl, combine the green cabbage, red cabbage, carrots, green onions, and cilantro. Ensure they are mixed well for even flavor distribution.
Whisk dressing
In a separate bowl, whisk together the sesame oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and honey until well combined.
Toss salad
Pour the dressing over the slaw and toss until everything is evenly coated. This helps each bite to be flavorful.
Add finishing touches
Sprinkle with sesame seeds, toss again, and serve immediately or chill before serving.
How to Store It
Fridge: 3 to 5 days in an airtight container.
Freezer: No, best enjoyed fresh for texture.
Reheat: This dish is best served cold; no reheating necessary.
Tips for Best Results
- Slice the cabbage and vegetables thinly for the best texture.
- Allow the salad to chill for at least 30 minutes to enhance flavors.
- Adjust the sweetness of the dressing to suit your taste preference.
- For extra crunch, top with toasted sesame seeds before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve as a side for grilled chicken or fish.
- Pair with Asian-inspired dishes like stir-fries or sushi.
- Enjoy as a refreshing lunch or picnic dish.
