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bage Slaw with Addictive Sesame Dressing Recipe

bage Slaw with Addictive Sesame Dressing Recipe
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★★★★★

4.8 from 14 reviews

This Easy Crunchy Asian Cabbage Slaw features a vibrant mix of napa and purple cabbages, crisp carrots, and colorful bell peppers, all tossed in an addictive sesame dressing. Finished with toasted sesame seeds and chopped peanuts, this no-cook slaw is a perfect balance of sweet, salty, and nutty flavors, making it a quick, healthy, and versatile side dish or meal topper that can be prepared in just 20 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Slaw:

  • 1 medium head napa cabbage (about 2 pounds), finely shredded
  • 2 cups purple cabbage, thinly sliced
  • 1 large carrot, julienned into matchsticks
  • 1 red bell pepper, cut into thin strips
  • 4 green onions, thinly sliced on the diagonal
  • 1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves, roughly chopped
  • 1/4 cup toasted sesame seeds (white or black)
  • 1/2 cup roasted peanuts, roughly chopped (optional but recommended)

For the Addictive Sesame Dressing:

  • 3 tablespoons pure sesame oil (not toasted)
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar (or white wine vinegar)
  • 1 tablespoon low-sodium soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon honey (or maple syrup for vegan option)
  • 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, finely grated
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
  • 1 tablespoon tahini

Instructions

  1. Prepare Your Vegetables Like a Pro: Slice the napa cabbage into thin ribbons using a sharp knife or mandoline cutter, cutting against the grain for the best crunch. Place the shredded napa cabbage in a large bowl, sprinkle lightly with salt, and let it sit for 5 minutes to draw out excess moisture.
  2. Create the Flavor Foundation: Meanwhile, julienne the carrot into matchsticks, slice the purple cabbage slightly thicker for texture and color contrast, and cut the red bell pepper into thin strips. Thinly slice the green onions on the diagonal and roughly chop the fresh cilantro leaves.
  3. Craft the Addictive Sesame Dressing: In a medium bowl, whisk together the pure sesame oil, rice vinegar, low-sodium soy sauce, and honey until emulsified. Add finely grated fresh ginger, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes, whisking continuously to prevent tahini from clumping. Stir in the tahini to create a creamy dressing.
  4. Combine and Toss with Precision: Drain any liquid released from the salted napa cabbage and pat dry with paper towels. Add the prepared purple cabbage, carrot, bell pepper, green onions, and cilantro to the bowl with napa cabbage. Pour the dressing over the vegetables and gently toss by folding to coat all ingredients evenly while preserving texture.
  5. Add the Finishing Touches: Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds and roughly chopped roasted peanuts over the slaw, reserving a small amount for garnish. Toss once more gently, then taste and adjust seasoning if needed before serving.

Notes

  • Do not over-dress the slaw initially; start with three-quarters of the dressing and add more if needed as vegetables release moisture.
  • Salting the napa cabbage is crucial to draw out excess moisture and prevent sogginess.
  • Store pre-cut vegetables in airtight containers to preserve nutritional value and freshness.
  • For vegan options, substitute honey with maple syrup or fresh orange juice with a pinch of stevia.
  • To increase fiber and nutrients, consider adding shredded Brussels sprouts or substituting half the cabbage with spiralized zucchini or cucumber noodles.
  • Keep dressing separate if preparing in advance and combine just before serving for maximum freshness.

Nutrition

Keywords: Asian cabbage slaw, sesame dressing, crunchy salad, healthy side dish, no-cook slaw, vegan option, quick salad, nutritious slaw

Find it online: https://dishedbydana.com/bage-slaw-with-addictive-sesame-dressing-recipe/