Easy Asian Slaw

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Crisp, vibrant, and full of bold flavors, this Easy Asian Slaw is a refreshing twist on classic coleslaw. Packed with crunchy cabbage, shredded carrots, and fresh cilantro, it’s tossed in a tangy, slightly sweet sesame dressing that brings everything together beautifully. Whether you’re looking for a light side dish or a colorful topping for tacos, sandwiches, or grain bowls, this slaw is the perfect way to add a zesty, Asian-inspired touch to your meal.

Not only is this slaw incredibly delicious, but it also comes together in just minutes with simple, wholesome ingredients. The combination of sesame, soy, and rice vinegar gives it an irresistible umami depth, while a sprinkle of sesame seeds and a hint of spice elevate the flavors even further. It’s the ultimate make-ahead salad that only gets better as it sits, making it ideal for picnics, BBQs, or meal prep.

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Why You’ll Love This Easy Asian Slaw

• Quick & Easy – Just a few minutes of chopping and mixing, and it’s ready to enjoy.
• Healthy & Nutritious – Made with fresh vegetables and a light, flavorful dressing.
• Perfect for Any Occasion – Serve it at cookouts, potlucks, or alongside your favorite Asian-inspired dishes.
• Customizable – Add protein, switch up the veggies, or adjust the dressing to suit your taste.
• Great for Meal Prep – It stays crisp and flavorful, making it perfect for make-ahead meals.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To make this Easy Asian Slaw effortlessly, you’ll need a few essential tools that will help you achieve the perfect texture and consistency:

• Sharp Knife or Mandoline – A sharp chef’s knife is great for thinly slicing cabbage, but a mandoline makes the process even faster and ensures uniform cuts.
• Box Grater or Julienne Peeler – These are perfect for shredding carrots evenly, adding to the crunch factor of the slaw.
• Mixing Bowls – A large mixing bowl is essential for tossing all the ingredients together without making a mess.
• Whisk or Small Jar with Lid – To mix the dressing thoroughly, a whisk works well, or you can shake everything together in a small jar for quick emulsification.
• Tongs or Salad Servers – These will help coat the vegetables evenly with the dressing.

Having the right tools ensures that your slaw is not only visually appealing but also maintains its signature crunch and balance of flavors.

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Ingredients for This Easy Asian Slaw

To make this delicious and refreshing slaw, you’ll need a mix of crisp vegetables and a flavorful dressing. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Slaw:

• 2 cups shredded green cabbage
• 2 cups shredded red cabbage
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• ½ cup chopped cilantro
• 2 green onions, thinly sliced
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (black or white, or a mix of both)

For the Dressing:

• 3 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari (for a gluten-free option)
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
• 1 teaspoon sriracha (optional, for a little heat)
• 1 garlic clove, minced

Optional Add-Ins:

• ½ cup sliced almonds or chopped peanuts for extra crunch
• 1 tablespoon lime juice for added tanginess
• 1 teaspoon fish sauce for deeper umami flavor

This simple yet flavorful ingredient list ensures a balance of crunch, tang, and umami that makes this slaw irresistible.

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Preparation Tips

• Slice Thinly for the Best Texture – Whether using a knife or mandoline, aim for thin, even slices of cabbage to keep the slaw light and crisp.
• Let It Sit for More Flavor – Allow the slaw to marinate in the dressing for at least 10–15 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld while keeping the crunch intact.
• Use Fresh Ingredients – Crisp vegetables make all the difference. Opt for fresh cabbage, firm carrots, and vibrant cilantro for the best results.
• Balance the Dressing – Taste as you go! If you prefer more tang, add extra rice vinegar. If you like a touch more sweetness, a drizzle of honey or maple syrup works wonders.
• Customize to Your Preference – Add nuts, seeds, or even a bit of spice with sriracha or chili flakes for extra heat.

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Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

Start by thinly slicing the green and purple cabbage using a sharp knife or a mandoline. Julienne the carrots with a box grater or julienne peeler. Chop the cilantro finely and set everything aside in a large mixing bowl.

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Step 2: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the sesame oil, rice vinegar, soy sauce, honey (or maple syrup), grated ginger, and minced garlic. If you prefer a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha. Shake or whisk until well combined.

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Step 3: Toss the Slaw

Pour the dressing over the prepared vegetables. Using tongs or clean hands, toss everything together until the cabbage and carrots are evenly coated. Let it sit for 10–15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

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Step 4: Add the Finishing Touches

Sprinkle sesame seeds and optional toasted peanuts or almonds on top for extra crunch. Garnish with more fresh cilantro if desired.

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Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Serve immediately for a crisp texture, or let it sit in the fridge for up to an hour for deeper flavor infusion. This slaw pairs perfectly with grilled meats, tacos, or as a refreshing side dish on its own.

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Notes

• Make It Ahead – This slaw tastes even better after sitting for a while, making it a great make-ahead dish for gatherings or meal prep.
• Adjust the Sweetness – If you prefer a sweeter slaw, add a bit more honey or maple syrup. If you like it tangier, increase the rice vinegar.
• Extra Crunch – Toss in chopped peanuts, almonds, or even crispy wonton strips for added texture.
• Spicy Variation – Add a drizzle of sriracha, red pepper flakes, or sliced chili for a little heat.
• Gluten-Free Option – Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce to keep this dish gluten-free.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overdressing the Slaw – Adding too much dressing at once can make the slaw soggy. Start with a smaller amount and add more as needed.
• Skipping the Resting Time – Letting the slaw sit for at least 10 minutes helps the flavors blend beautifully. Skipping this step may result in a less flavorful dish.
• Cutting Cabbage Too Thick – Thick slices of cabbage can be tough to chew. Use a mandoline or a sharp knife to slice it thinly for the best texture.
• Not Drying the Cabbage Properly – If your cabbage is too wet after washing, the dressing won’t stick well. Use a salad spinner or pat it dry with a paper towel.
• Overloading with Add-Ins – While extras like nuts, seeds, or dried fruit can enhance the dish, too many additions can overwhelm the balance of flavors.

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What to Serve With Easy Asian Slaw?

This vibrant slaw pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes, adding a fresh and crunchy contrast. Here are some delicious options:

8 Recommended Pairings

1. Grilled Chicken or Teriyaki Chicken – The crisp slaw balances the smoky, savory flavors of grilled meats.
2. Asian-Inspired Tacos – Use it as a topping for fish tacos, shrimp tacos, or Korean BBQ beef tacos.
3. Rice Bowls – Serve it alongside steamed rice, quinoa, or brown rice with a protein of your choice.
4. BBQ or Pulled Pork Sandwiches – The tangy dressing complements the richness of BBQ meats.
5. Stir-Fried Noodles – Enjoy it as a refreshing side to balance out saucy stir-fried noodles or lo mein.
6. Banh Mi Sandwiches – This slaw makes an excellent substitute for pickled veggies in a Vietnamese-style sandwich.
7. Dumplings or Spring Rolls – Serve it as a light, fresh side to contrast with crispy dumplings or fried spring rolls.
8. Grilled Fish or Shrimp – The bright flavors of the slaw enhance seafood dishes perfectly.

This slaw is incredibly versatile, making it a go-to side dish for both Asian and non-Asian meals.

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Storage Instructions

• Refrigeration – Store any leftover Easy Asian Slaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop, but the vegetables may soften slightly over time.
• Keep the Dressing Separate – If making in advance, store the dressing separately and toss it with the slaw just before serving to maintain maximum crunch.
• Refreshing Leftovers – If the slaw becomes too soft, add a handful of freshly shredded cabbage or carrots before serving. A quick splash of rice vinegar or a drizzle of sesame oil can also help revive the flavors.
• Do Not Freeze – Cabbage and carrots lose their crisp texture when frozen and thawed, making this dish unsuitable for freezing.

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Estimated Nutrition

The following nutrition estimate is based on a single serving of Easy Asian Slaw (approximately 1 cup):

• Calories: ~120
• Protein: 2g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 5g
• Fat: 8g
• Sodium: ~250mg

These values may vary based on ingredient choices and portion sizes. For a lighter version, reduce the sesame oil and opt for low-sodium soy sauce.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this slaw ahead of time?

Yes! This slaw actually tastes better after sitting for a while, as the flavors meld together. For the crunchiest texture, store the dressing separately and mix it in just before serving.

2. How do I keep my slaw from getting soggy?

To prevent sogginess, ensure your cabbage is thoroughly dried after washing. Also, avoid adding too much dressing at once—start with a smaller amount and add more if needed.

3. Can I use pre-shredded cabbage?

Absolutely! Pre-shredded cabbage and coleslaw mixes are great time-savers. Just be sure to check for freshness before using.

4. Is this slaw spicy?

No, the base recipe isn’t spicy, but you can easily add spice by mixing in sriracha, chili flakes, or sliced jalapeños.

5. What’s the best way to add protein?

For a heartier dish, add grilled chicken, shrimp, tofu, or edamame. These proteins complement the flavors perfectly.

6. Can I use a different dressing?

Yes! While the sesame-soy dressing is traditional, you can swap it for a peanut dressing, miso vinaigrette, or even a citrus-based dressing for a different twist.

7. Is this slaw keto or low-carb?

This recipe is relatively low in carbs, but you can make it keto-friendly by reducing the honey or substituting it with a sugar-free sweetener.

8. What type of sesame oil should I use?

Use toasted sesame oil for the best flavor. Regular sesame oil has a milder taste and won’t add the same nutty depth.

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Conclusion

Easy Asian Slaw is a colorful, crunchy, and flavorful dish that works as both a side and a topping. With its simple preparation, fresh ingredients, and customizable options, it’s a go-to recipe for busy days, meal prep, and gatherings. Whether you’re pairing it with grilled meats, tacos, or rice bowls, this slaw adds a refreshing and zesty touch to any meal. Give it a try and enjoy the vibrant flavors!

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