Description
This Easy Crunchy Asian Cabbage Slaw features a vibrant mix of Napa and purple cabbage, crisp carrots, and sweet bell peppers, all tossed in an addictive sesame dressing. The combination of toasted sesame seeds, tahini, and a tangy soy-rice vinegar sauce creates a refreshing, flavorful side dish perfect for any meal or as a light lunch.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 4 cups Napa Cabbage, thinly sliced
- 2 cups Purple Cabbage, thinly sliced
- 1 large Carrot, julienned
- 1 cup Bell Pepper, sliced
Dressing
- 1/4 cup Sesame Oil
- 3 tablespoons Rice Vinegar
- 3 tablespoons Soy Sauce (use Tamari for gluten-free)
- 2 tablespoons Honey (or substitute with fresh orange juice and stevia for lower glycemic index)
- 1 tablespoon Ginger, grated
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes
- 2 tablespoons Tahini
Toppings
- 2 tablespoons Toasted Sesame Seeds
- 2 tablespoons Peanuts, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the Vegetables: Thinly slice the Napa and purple cabbages, julienne the carrot, and slice the bell pepper. Combine all these fresh vegetables in a large mixing bowl to create the base for your slaw.
- Make the Dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together the sesame oil, rice vinegar, soy sauce (or tamari), honey (or orange juice with stevia), grated ginger, minced garlic, red pepper flakes, and tahini until smooth and well combined, forming a flavorful Asian-inspired sesame dressing.
- Toss the Slaw: Pour the dressing over the mixed vegetables and carefully toss everything together until the slaw is evenly coated with the dressing, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor and crunch.
- Add the Crunchy Toppings: Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds and chopped peanuts over the slaw. Gently fold them in or leave them as a crunchy garnish on top for added texture and nutty flavor.
- Chill and Serve: Allow the slaw to chill in the refrigerator for about 10-15 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld wonderfully. Serve cold as a refreshing side dish or light meal.
Notes
- For a gluten-free option, substitute soy sauce with tamari.
- To lower the glycemic index, replace honey with fresh orange juice and stevia.
- Feel free to add other crunchy vegetables like radishes or snap peas for added texture.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days; flavors may intensify over time.
- Toasting the sesame seeds and peanuts enhances their nutty flavor—do this gently in a dry skillet over medium heat until fragrant.
