Asian Coleslaw is a vibrant and crunchy salad that brings a refreshing twist to the traditional coleslaw. Bursting with colors and flavors, this dish combines crunchy cabbage, carrots, and a medley of fresh herbs, all tossed in a tangy sesame-soy dressing. It’s perfect as a side dish for barbecues, picnics, or even as a light meal on its own. The bright flavors and satisfying crunch makes it an irresistible addition to any meal.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You will absolutely adore this Asian Coleslaw for its delightful flavor and simplicity. Not only is it quick to prepare, but it also offers a fantastic crunch with every bite. The combination of fresh vegetables and a zesty dressing creates a perfect balance between sweetness, tanginess, and umami that will keep you coming back for more. This recipe is also versatile, fitting perfectly into various diets, whether you are vegan, gluten-free, or simply looking for a healthy side dish. Plus, it can be made in advance, making it a great choice for meal prep.
Tips and Tricks
- Shredding Vegetables: Use a mandoline slicer or food processor for quick and even shredding of cabbage and carrots.
- Dressing Infusion: Make the dressing ahead of time to allow the flavors to meld together more deeply.
- Herbs: Fresh herbs like cilantro or green onions not only enhance the flavor but also add freshness to the dish.
- Adding Protein: For a heartier version, consider adding grilled chicken, tofu, or edamame for an added protein punch.
Make Ahead Tips
This Asian Coleslaw is perfect for make-ahead preparation. You can chop the vegetables and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator up to 2 days in advance. The dressing can also be prepared ahead of time and stored separately for up to a week. Just combine the two right before serving to keep the coleslaw crisp.
Recipe Variations
Feel free to mix things up! You can substitute green cabbage with red cabbage for a colorful twist, or add in some sliced bell peppers for extra crunch. For a spicy kick, toss in some sliced jalapeños or a dash of chili oil in the dressing. Alternatively, you can replace the sesame oil with olive oil for a lighter flavor profile.
How to Serve
Serve your Asian Coleslaw in a large bowl or platter, garnished with toasted sesame seeds and chopped green onions for a pop of color. Pair it alongside grilled meats or fish, or enjoy it as a refreshing lunch option. For added flair, consider serving it in individual cups or jars for a fun and stylish presentation.
Pairing Suggestions
This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp Riesling or a light sparkling wine. For cocktails, a refreshing mojito or a ginger beer-based drink complements the flavors beautifully. On the side, consider serving grilled chicken skewers or spring rolls, and finish off with a light mango sorbet for dessert.
How to Store
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The coleslaw may lose some of its crunch over time, so it’s best enjoyed fresh. If you plan to freeze it, do so without the dressing, and consume within a month. Thaw in the refrigerator and dress right before serving.
Equipment Needed
- Mandoline slicer or food processor for shredding vegetables.
- Mixing bowl for combining the salad.
- Whisk or jar for mixing the dressing.
Dietary Adaptations
To make this recipe vegan, simply ensure that the soy sauce is gluten-free, and omit any animal-based proteins. For a nut-free version, use sunflower oil in place of sesame oil. If you need a dairy-free option, this recipe is already dairy-free, so no adjustments are needed!
Seasonal Adaptations
In the summer, you can incorporate fresh seasonal veggies like snap peas or radishes for extra crunch. In the fall, consider adding shredded Brussels sprouts for a unique twist. You can also throw in some diced apples for a sweet touch during the autumn months.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I use pre-packaged coleslaw mix? Yes, pre-packaged coleslaw mix can save time, but fresh vegetables will provide better flavor and crunch.
- How long does the dressing last? The dressing can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one week.
- Can I add fruits? Absolutely! Fruits like mandarin oranges or pineapple can add a delightful sweetness to the coleslaw.
Asian Coleslaw
Asian Coleslaw is a vibrant and crunchy salad that brings a refreshing twist to the traditional coleslaw.
Ingredients
- 4 cups green cabbage, shredded
- 2 cups carrots, shredded
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 cup cilantro, chopped
- 1/2 cup green onions, chopped
- 1/4 cup sesame seeds (toasted)
- 1/3 cup rice vinegar
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, carrots, red bell pepper, cilantro, and green onions.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, honey or maple syrup, and grated ginger until combined.
- Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and gently toss until all the vegetables are evenly coated.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Allow the coleslaw to sit for at least 15 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.
- Just before serving, sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top for garnish.
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 6 Serving Size: 1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 148Total Fat: 7gSaturated Fat: 1gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 0mgSodium: 675mgCarbohydrates: 19gFiber: 5gSugar: 11gProtein: 4g
Asianplated.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, making Asian Coleslaw is not only a quick and easy endeavor but also a delightful way to enjoy a medley of fresh flavors and textures. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish or as part of a light meal, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends. Don’t hesitate to adjust the ingredients to your personal preferences and have fun with it! Enjoy the crunch and the taste of this healthy and vibrant dish.
