There’s nothing quite like the crunch of fresh cabbage and the zing of ginger wafting through your kitchen. This Asian Slaw with Sesame Ginger Dressing is a vibrant, refreshing side dish that brightens up any meal. It’s loved for its simplicity and that perfect balance of flavorscrunchy, tangy, and just a little sweet.
Think of this slaw as your go-to companion for fish tacos or as a standalone salad on a warm day. It comes together quickly with just a few pantry staples: cabbage, carrots, and a zesty dressing that packs a punch. You can whip it up in under 15 minutes, making it a lifesaver for busy weeknights while feeling like a special treat. A splash of lime, and you’ll be dreaming of beachside tacos!
Started making this slaw last summer when my cousin introduced me to fresh ginger at a family BBQ. The first bite was a revelationthe crunch of the veggies paired with the creamy dressing was a hit! The trick? Let the slaw sit for a few minutes before serving, so the flavors really meld together. I’ve been sharing this recipe with friends for years now, and it always gets rave reviews.
Yesica Andrews
Asian Slaw with Sesame Ginger Dressing That You’ll Love
Enjoy this vibrant Asian Slaw with Sesame Ginger Dressing, a delightful blend of crunchy red cabbage, carrots, and optional quinoa all tossed in a sweet and savory dressing. Perfect as a side or topping, it pairs wonderfully with Crispy Fish Tacos with Lime Slaw and is an Easy Fish Tacos Cabbage Slaw Recipe that adds freshness and crunch to any meal.
3 cups Napa Cabbage or Green Cabbage, ⅓ pound shredded
1 cup Cooked Quinoa, optional
1 cup Carrots, ¼ pound shredded
¼ cup Fresh Cilantro, chopped
2 Green Onions, thinly sliced
¼ cup Unseasoned Rice Vinegar
1 tablespoon Maple Syrup, or preferred sweetener
2 teaspoons Soy Sauce, or Tamari
1 teaspoon Fresh Ginger, finely grated
2 cloves Garlic, minced
3 tablespoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil
1 tablespoon Sesame Oil, light or dark
Sea Salt, to taste
Black Pepper, to taste
Method
Set your oven to 350°F if toasting cashews and sesame seeds in the oven and spread them out on a baking tray, roasting for about 3 to 5 minutes until fragrant and lightly toasted.
Alternatively, warm a small skillet over medium heat and stir the cashews and sesame seeds frequently for about 3 minutes until they become toasted and aromatic.
Remove them from heat and place on a plate to cool fully before covering and storing at room temperature until needed.
In a large bowl, blend together the red and napa or green cabbages, cooked quinoa if using, shredded carrots, chopped fresh cilantro, and thinly sliced green onions, then cover and refrigerate the mixture until it’s time to dress and serve.
Prepare the dressing by combining rice vinegar, maple syrup, soy sauce (or tamari), freshly grated ginger, and minced garlic in a bowl; slowly whisk in the extra virgin olive oil and sesame oil until everything is smoothly incorporated, then season with sea salt and black pepper to your taste.
Refrigerate the dressing until ready to use.
When serving, sprinkle the toasted cashews and sesame seeds onto the slaw, pour the sesame ginger dressing over, and gently toss everything together until evenly coated.
Store any dressed slaw in an airtight container for up to 24 hours, while the undressed slaw can be kept refrigerated for up to 5 days.
Notes
Use a food processor to shred cabbages quickly if desired. This slaw is great for meal prep and pairs excellently with fish tacos. Adjust the sweetness or saltiness of the dressing to your liking. Store leftovers separately to keep the slaw crisp.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick to Prepare: This Asian Slaw with Sesame Ginger Dressing comes together in just 20 minutes! Perfect for those busy nights when you want something fresh without the fuss.
Adds Flavor and Crunch: The vibrant crunch of red and napa cabbage, combined with the nuttiness of sesame, elevates any meal, especially as a side with Crispy Fish Tacos with Lime Slaw.
Healthy and Colorful: Packed with nutrients from fresh veggies and the added bonus of quinoa (if you choose to include it), this slaw fits right into your healthy eating plans.
Versatile: It pairs beautifully not just with fish tacos but also as a lunch box treat or a side for a BBQ. You’ll want to make this again and again!
Key Ingredients and Tools
Gathering quality ingredients will help your slaw shine. Here’s what you’ll need:
Cabbage: You can use both red and napa cabbages for crunch and color.
Carrots: Add a touch of sweetness and more crunchshredded, of course!
Quinoa: Optional but a wonderful source of protein, making your slaw even heartier.
Cilantro and Green Onions: Fresh herbs that brighten the dish and add layers of flavor.
Tools: A sharp chef’s knife, mixing bowls, and a whisk will be your best friends in this process.
How It Works Step-by-Step
Toast the Nuts and Seeds: Choose between oven and stovetop. If using the oven, preheat to 350°F and toast for 3-5 minutes. On the stovetop, keep it moving for 3 minutes until they’re nice and fragrant.
Mix the Slaw: In a large mixing bowl, toss together the shredded red and napa cabbages, carrots, quinoa (if using), cilantro, and green onions. Cover and pop it in the fridge while you whip up the dressing.
Make the Dressing: Whisk the rice vinegar, maple syrup, soy sauce, ginger, and garlic. While whisking, slowly drizzle in the olive and sesame oils until everything is well blended. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
Combine and Serve: Fold in the toasted nuts and seeds, pour over the dressing, and gently toss to combine. Get ready for that wonderful crunch!
Troubleshooting and Tweaks
Too Sweet: If the dressing is a bit too sweet for your liking, add another splash of vinegar to balance it out.
Not Enough Crunch: Adjust the veggies! More cabbage or even some crunchy radishes can add texture.
Make It Creamy: If you’re dreaming of a richer texture, feel free to stir in a dollop of Greek yogurt or avocado to keep it healthy!
Serving and Storage Tips
This slaw is best served fresh, but here are some handy tips:
Storage Type
Duration
Dressed Slaw
Up to 24 hours in the fridge
Undressed Slaw
Up to 5 days in the fridge
When serving, this Asian Slaw with Sesame Ginger Dressing makes a fantastic companion to those 20 Minute Fish Tacos Lime Cabbage or even as a refreshing side to grilled meat. The flavors just get better as they mingle, so let your slaw chill for a bit before diving in!
Expert Says
Asian slaw with sesame ginger dressing is not only vibrant and delicious but also packed with nutrients. The cruciferous vegetables in the slaw, like cabbage and broccoli, are high in fiber and antioxidants, which can support digestive health and help reduce inflammation, making this dish a flavorful choice for wellness.
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Asian Slaw with Sesame Ginger Dressing: A Personal Journey
After countless attempts at recreating a slaw that captured the vibrant crunch I loved from childhood, I finally hit the mark with this Asian Slaw with Sesame Ginger Dressing. From tweaking the dressing ratios to finding the perfect crunch in the veggies, each try was a delightful lesson that brought this dish to life just as I envisioned.
FAQs ( Asian Slaw with Sesame Ginger Dressing )
Can I make Asian slaw ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the slaw in advance. To keep it fresh, mix the vegetables and dressing separately. Combine them just before serving to maintain the crunch and vibrant colors.
What vegetables are best for slaw?
Cabbage is the classic choice, but you can add carrots, bell peppers, and radishes for extra color and flavor. Shredded broccoli or snap peas also work well in this dish!
Can I customize the sesame ginger dressing?
Absolutely! Feel free to adjust the sweetness by adding more honey or the tanginess with additional vinegar. You can also incorporate chili paste for a spicy kick or substitute sesame oil with other oils for different flavors.
How long does slaw last in the fridge?
This dish can last up to 3-5 days in the fridge if stored in an airtight container. Just keep in mind that the texture may soften over time, so it’s best enjoyed fresh.
What can I serve with Asian slaw?
This meal pairs well with grilled meats or fish, like crispy fish tacos or even grilled chicken. It also makes a great topping for sandwiches or as a fresh side for barbecue dishes.
Conclusion
There you have itan absolutely delightful Asian Slaw with Sesame Ginger Dressing that’s as quick as it is comforting! You’ll love how the vibrant crunch and zesty aroma fill your kitchen. It’s a dish that comes together in no time, perfect for busy weeknights or a sunny afternoon get-together.
Feel free to play around! Toss in some fresh herbs or add a sprinkle of crunchy peanuts for an extra layer of flavor. And remember, this slaw keeps well in the fridge, but it’s at its best when enjoyed fresh! A little tip from my own kitchen: let it chill for about 10 minutes before digging inthe flavors really get to know each other during that time.
I’d love to see how you make this slaw your own! Did you grow up with something similar? Share your thoughts and a picture or two! Don’t forget to save this recipe for a family gathering; it’s bound to become a cherished favorite. Happy cooking!
