There’s nothing like the crunch of fresh cabbage in the kitchen on a warm day. This Crunchy Asian Cabbage Salad brings vibrant flavors and textures, capturing everyone’s heart, especially with summer gatherings just around the corner!
Think of a classic slaw but with a twist. This dish mixes crispy cabbage with ramen noodles, vibrant veggies, and a zingy dressing that packs a punch. It’s a breeze to whip up, perfect for busy nights or outdoor barbecues, and you might even find some pantry staples you didn’t know you had in your cupboard!
I started making this salad back in 2015 when my daughters threw a picnic party in our backyard. Their friends couldn’t get enough of the crunch! The secret? Toasting the almonds and sesame seeds brings out an incredible, nutty flavor. Years later, this recipe still takes center stage at our family picnics.
Joe Rooney
Crunchy Asian Cabbage Salad – Easy and Delicious Recipe
This Crunchy Asian Cabbage Salad is a refreshing and vibrant dish perfect for potlucks or a light meal. Featuring crunchy Asian cabbage salad ramen pieces and an easy, flavorful dressing, this recipe blends the crispness of fresh veggies with the nuttiness of slivered almonds and sesame seeds. Enjoy a vegan crunchy cabbage salad sesame style with the added protein boost of shelled edamame and the optional sunflower seeds for extra texture.
3 oz. package ramen noodles – broken into pieces, and toasted
1/2 cup slivered almonds -toasted
2 teaspoons sesame seeds
sunflower seeds – optional topping
1/2 cup regular sesame oil – or canola oil
1/4 cup honey
1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
2 Tablespoons soy sauce – or a few dashes more
2 teaspoons chili paste or sriracha – for a little spice and taste (optional)
salt and pepper – to taste
Method
Prepare the dressing by whisking together the sesame oil, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, honey, chili paste or sriracha if using, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Set aside or refrigerate if making ahead.
Heat the frozen shelled edamame in the microwave until warm, then sprinkle lightly with salt and let cool.
Break the ramen noodles into small pieces and toast them along with the slivered almonds in a dry nonstick skillet over medium heat until golden and fragrant. Allow to cool.
In a large bowl, toss together the cabbage slaw, chopped red cabbage, shredded carrots, diced green onions, cooled edamame, toasted ramen, toasted almonds, and sesame seeds.
Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad, mixing thoroughly to coat all ingredients evenly. Add sunflower seeds on top if desired before serving.
Notes
If you prefer, omit the red cabbage and use extra green cabbage mix instead. For the best crunch, add the ramen noodles, almonds, and sunflower seeds right before serving. The salad can be dressed about an hour ahead for deeper flavor development. Dress individual servings separately if you don’t plan to eat all at once.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Nostalgic Flavors: This Crunchy Asian Cabbage Salad combines the sweetness of honey with the kick of soy sauce, delivering a flavor that takes you back to cozy dinner gatherings.
Convenient and Quick: Prep time is just 15 minutes! With a few toasty tops, you’ll have a salad ready to shine on your table.
Versatile Ingredients: Packed with crunchy veggies, shelled edamame, and toasted ramen noodles, you can make this salad your own. Toss in some leftover chicken or swap in your favorite nuts.
Perfect for Sharing: Serving up to 8 people, it’s great for potlucks or family dinners. Plus, it looks beautiful and colorful!
Key Ingredients and Tools
Cabbage Slaw: A blend of green and red cabbage brings vibrant color and crunch.
Ramen Noodles: Those toasted pieces add a delightful crunch. Just break them up and toast for extra flavor!
Edamame: Shelled and microwaved, these little green beans offer protein and a pop of color.
Salad Dressing: Made with common pantry staples, prepare this zesty dressing ahead of time.
How It Works, Step by Step
Make the Dressing: Combine sesame oil, honey, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, and chili paste in a jar. Give it a good shake and set aside.
Prep the Edamame: Microwave until warmed through, season with salt, and let cool.
Toast Everything: In a skillet, toast the ramen and slivered almonds until fragrant. This step is crucial for adding depth to your salad.
Combine and Serve: In a large bowl, mix the cabbage, carrots, edamame, and all the toasty toppings. Drizzle the dressing on top and toss until everything is coated!
Troubleshooting Tips
If your salad is too soggy: Add the ramen noodles and nuts just before serving for maximum crunch.
Adjusting sweetness: If the dressing is too sweet, simply add a splash more vinegar.
Vegetables wilting: Make sure to chill the salad before serving, and keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat for crispiness!
Tweaks and Variations
Nut Swaps: Try using peanuts for an Easy Crunchy Asian Slaw Peanuts twist.
Make it Vegan: Use maple syrup instead of honey for a Vegan Crunchy Cabbage Salad Sesame.
Extra Color: Feeling adventurous? Add bell peppers or cucumbers for more crunch and nutrition.
Storage Tips
Storage Method
Duration
Notes
In the fridge (salad without dressing)
2-3 days
Best to keep the dressing separate until serving to maintain crunch.
In the freezer
Not recommended
Best enjoyed fresh; freezing will alter texture.
Step Summary
Step
Action
1
Make dressing
2
Prep edamame
3
Toast ramen and almonds
4
Combine ingredients and serve
Expert Says
Crunchy Asian cabbage salad is not only refreshing but also packs a nutritional punch. Cabbage is rich in vitamin K and antioxidants, which support heart health. The key to achieving that perfect crunch lies in the dressing; let it sit briefly before serving to enhance flavors without wilting the greens.
For more delicious recipes and cooking inspiration, follow me on Facebook, Pinterest and Reddit!
A Journey to My Crunchy Asian Cabbage Salad
After countless attempts, I finally perfected this crunchy Asian cabbage salad. I learned the hard way not to rush the dressing, which needed to meld overnight for the flavors to shine. Each bowl shared at family gatherings, filled with vibrant colors and a satisfying crunch, reminds me that patience truly pays off in the kitchen.
FAQs ( Crunchy Asian Cabbage Salad )
What are the main ingredients in this recipe?
This dish mainly features shredded cabbage, carrots, green onions, and a crunchy element like almonds or peanuts. Toss in a flavorful Asian dressing to tie it all together, and feel free to customize with your favorite veggies.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely! To keep the dish vegan, ensure your dressing is free from animal products. You can use substituted ingredients like sesame oil and soy sauce for a delicious flavor while remaining plant-based.
How long can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. However, for the best texture, it’s advisable to add the dressing just before serving to prevent the cabbage from wilting.
Can I add ramen noodles to this dish?
Yes, adding ramen noodles is a great way to enhance the dish! Simply cook and cool the noodles, then toss them in with the shredded vegetables and dressing for a delightful twist.
What dressing works best?
A classic Asian vinaigrette made with soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil complements the flavors perfectly. Adjust the sweetness with a little honey or maple syrup if desired, depending on your taste preferences.
Conclusion
You’ll love how this Crunchy Asian Cabbage Salad comes together in a flash, blending crispy textures and vibrant flavors that will make your kitchen feel like a summertime picnic. It’s a recipe your family will cherish, just like mine does!
Feeling adventurous? Try adding a splash of lime for zest or swapping in your favorite nuts for a personal touch. And here’s a tip I learned from my aunt: store the salad without the dressing to keep that delightful crunch!
I’d love to hear how your salad turns out! Did you grow up with something similar? Share your photos or thoughts, and don’t forget to save this recipe for a gathering with friends and family. Enjoy every bite!
