Asian Slaw with Sesame Ginger Dressing
Asian Slaw with Sesame Ginger Dressing is a vibrant and crunchy dish that’s bursting with flavor and perfect for any occasion. This slaw brings a delightful mix of textures and tastes, making it an excellent side dish or a refreshing light meal.
Why Make This Recipe
There are so many reasons to whip up this Asian slaw! First and foremost, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it a great choice for busy weeknights. With a colorful array of veggies, it’s not only visually appealing but also packed with nutrients. The sesame ginger dressing adds a delightful zing, elevating the freshness of the vegetables and creating a harmonious balance of flavors. Whether you’re serving it alongside grilled chicken, as a topping for tacos, or simply enjoying it on its own, this slaw is sure to impress.
How to Make Asian Slaw with Sesame Ginger Dressing
Creating this Asian slaw is a straightforward process that you can accomplish in just a few simple steps. Gather your ingredients, and let’s get started!
Ingredients
- 3 cups shredded green cabbage
- 1 cup shredded red cabbage
- 1 carrot, julienned
- 3 green onions, sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
- 3 tablespoons sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 clove garlic, minced
Directions
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded green cabbage, red cabbage, julienned carrot, sliced green onions, and chopped cilantro.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the sesame oil, rice vinegar, soy sauce, honey, grated ginger, and minced garlic to create the dressing.
- Pour the dressing over the slaw mixture and toss until everything is evenly coated.
- Sprinkle sesame seeds on top, and serve immediately for a fresh crunch, or chill in the refrigerator for a while to allow the flavors to meld before serving.
Pro Tips for Success with Asian Slaw
- Use Fresh Ingredients: The key to a delicious slaw is using fresh and crisp vegetables. Make sure your cabbage and other veggies are at their peak for the best flavor.
- Prep Ahead: Prepare the vegetables a day prior and keep them in the fridge, but add the dressing only right before serving to maintain crunchiness.
- Adjust the Dressing: Feel free to tweak the dressing according to your taste. If you prefer it sweeter, add more honey; if you like it tangier, increase the rice vinegar.
- Chop Uniformly: For a consistent texture, ensure that all vegetables are cut into similar sizes, making each bite delightful.
- Add Heat: If you enjoy a spicy kick, consider adding some sliced jalapeños or a dash of sriracha to the dressing for a little heat.
- Include Nuts: Throw in some crushed peanuts or cashews for an extra crunch and a boost of protein.
Flavor Variations for Asian Slaw
While the classic version is absolutely delicious, here are a few ways to put a unique spin on your Asian Slaw:
- Add Fruits: Incorporate mandarin oranges or pineapple chunks for a sweet and tropical twist.
- Different Vegetables: Substitute or add bell peppers, snap peas, or radishes for additional crunch and color.
- Protein Boost: Add shredded chicken, tofu, or edamame to turn this side dish into a satisfying main course.
- Spicy Sauces: Experiment with chili oil or crushed red pepper flakes in the dressing for those who love a bit of heat.
- Herbal Touch: Try adding mint or basil alongside cilantro for a refreshing herbal note.
Serving Suggestions for Asian Slaw
This Asian Slaw is versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. Here are some serving suggestions:
- Serve it as a side to grilled salmon or chicken for a flavorful and balanced meal.
- Use it as a refreshing topping for tacos or burritos to bring a crunchy texture to every bite.
- Add it to rice bowls or quinoa bowls for a nourishing and colorful addition.
- Enjoy it on its own as a light lunch or snack, especially on warm days.
Storage and Freezing Instructions for Asian Slaw
If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The slaw will soften over time, but it’s still tasty! Just remember to keep the dressing separate if you plan to store it for a later date.
Freezing Asian slaw is not recommended since the texture of the vegetables can change upon thawing. Instead, prepare fresh servings as needed to enjoy the best crunch and flavor.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|—————-|——–|
| Calories | 120 |
| Protein | 3g |
| Carbohydrates | 10g |
| Fat | 8g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sodium | 150mg |
FAQ About Asian Slaw with Sesame Ginger Dressing
Can I use other types of cabbage?
Absolutely! While green and red cabbage are traditional, you can use napa cabbage or savoy cabbage for different textures and flavors. Mixing various types can also add visual interest to your slaw.
Is this slaw gluten-free?
Yes, you can easily make this Asian slaw gluten-free by using gluten-free soy sauce or tamari in your dressing. This way, everyone can enjoy the delightful flavors without worry.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
While you can prepare the slaw ingredients ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator, it is best to dress the slaw just before serving. This will keep the vegetables crisp and fresh rather than wilting over time.
What can I substitute for honey in the dressing?
If you’re looking for a vegan alternative, maple syrup or agave nectar works wonderfully in place of honey. Both options will add sweetness while keeping the dressing vegan-friendly.
How can I make this slaw spicier?
To add a little heat to your Asian slaw, consider adding minced jalapeños or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce to the dressing. You can also experiment with chili garlic sauce for an extra punch.
Final Thoughts
Asian Slaw with Sesame Ginger Dressing is a delightful dish that showcases the balance of flavors and freshness that we love in Asian cuisine. Ideal for any gathering, this slaw is sure to please a crowd and bring cheer to your table. Whether you enjoy it as a side dish or a light meal, this recipe offers endless possibilities for customization while remaining simple and satisfying. Give it a try, and your taste buds will thank you!
Print
Asian Slaw with Sesame Ginger Dressing
- Total Time: 15
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A vibrant and crunchy dish bursting with flavor, perfect as a side or light meal.
Ingredients
- 3 cups shredded green cabbage
- 1 cup shredded red cabbage
- 1 carrot, julienned
- 3 green onions, sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
- 3 tablespoons sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 clove garlic, minced
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded green cabbage, red cabbage, julienned carrot, sliced green onions, and chopped cilantro.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the sesame oil, rice vinegar, soy sauce, honey, grated ginger, and minced garlic to create the dressing.
- Pour the dressing over the slaw mixture and toss until everything is evenly coated.
- Sprinkle sesame seeds on top and serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator before serving.
Notes
Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor. Prepare vegetables ahead of time but add dressing just before serving.
- Prep Time: 15
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
