Crunchy, vibrant, and bursting with bold flavors, Asian Cabbage Salad is a refreshing dish perfect for any occasion.
This salad combines crisp cabbage, colorful vegetables, and a zesty sesame-ginger dressing that brings everything together.
Whether you’re looking for a light lunch, a side dish for a stir-fry dinner, or a meal-prep option that stays fresh, this salad has you covered.
Plus, it’s naturally vegan, gluten-free, and incredibly easy to make!
Why You’ll Love This Asian Cabbage Salad
- Incredibly Crunchy & Fresh: A mix of cabbage, carrots, and bell peppers delivers the perfect bite.
- Easy & Quick to Make: Ready in just 15 minutes with minimal chopping and simple ingredients.
- Packed with Flavor: The sesame-ginger dressing adds a tangy, savory, and slightly sweet taste.
- Highly Versatile: Enjoy it as a side, add protein for a full meal, or make it part of a grain bowl.
- Great for Meal Prep: The cabbage holds up well, making it a fantastic make-ahead salad.
Key Ingredients for Asian Cabbage Salad
For the Salad:
- Cabbage: Napa, green, or red cabbage for a crunchy base.
- Carrots: Adds natural sweetness and color.
- Bell Peppers: Brings a fresh, crisp texture.
- Green Onions: Mildly sharp and zesty.
- Cilantro: Enhances the freshness with a hint of citrusy flavor.
- Crunchy Add-ins: Sesame seeds, almonds, or peanuts for texture.
For the Dressing:
- Sesame Oil: Provides a nutty aroma and deep flavor.
- Soy Sauce or Tamari: Adds umami and saltiness.
- Rice Vinegar: Brings tanginess to balance the flavors.
- Maple Syrup or Honey: A touch of sweetness to complement the acidity.
- Ginger & Garlic: Infuses the dressing with warmth and depth.
- Lime Juice: Enhances brightness and adds a citrusy kick.
This ingredient combination makes Asian Cabbage Salad both flavorful and nourishing. Now, let’s move on to the step-by-step instructions!
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Asian Cabbage Salad
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
Finely shred the cabbage using a sharp knife or mandoline slicer. Julienne the carrots and bell peppers into thin strips.
Chop the green onions and cilantro for added flavor.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together sesame oil, soy sauce (or tamari), rice vinegar, maple syrup (or honey), lime juice, minced garlic, and grated ginger until well combined.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, carrots, bell peppers, green onions, and cilantro.
Step 4: Toss with Dressing
Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss everything together until evenly coated.
Step 5: Add Crunch & Serve
Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds, chopped almonds, or peanuts for extra crunch.
Serve immediately or refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Tips for the Best Asian Cabbage Salad
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Crisp cabbage and vibrant vegetables ensure the best texture and taste.
- Let It Marinate: Allowing the salad to sit for 15–30 minutes helps the flavors meld beautifully.
- Customize the Dressing: Adjust the sweetness, acidity, or saltiness based on your preference.
- Add Protein for a Full Meal: Top with tofu, grilled chicken, or shrimp for a heartier dish.
- Make It Ahead: This salad stays fresh for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container.
Conclusion
Asian Cabbage Salad is the perfect combination of crunch, flavor, and nutrition.
It’s easy to prepare, incredibly versatile, and works well as a side dish or light meal.
Whether you’re serving it fresh or meal-prepping for the week, this salad will keep you coming back for more!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use pre-shredded cabbage for this salad?
Yes! Pre-shredded cabbage saves time and works just as well. However, freshly chopped cabbage often has a better crunch.
2. How long does this salad last in the fridge?
It stays fresh for up to 3 days in an airtight container. If storing, keep the dressing separate until ready to serve.
3. Can I make this salad spicy?
Absolutely! Add red pepper flakes, sriracha, or sliced Thai chilies for extra heat.
4. Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, if you use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce, it remains gluten-free.
5. What proteins pair well with this salad?
Grilled tofu, shrimp, chicken, or edamame all make excellent protein additions to turn this salad into a full meal.
Asian Cabbage Salad
Equipment
- 1 large mixing bowl
- 1 small bowl (for dressing)
- 1 Whisk
- 1 Sharp Knife
- 1 Cutting board
Ingredients
For the Salad
- 4 cups shredded green cabbage
- 1 cup shredded purple cabbage
- 1 cup julienned carrots
- 1/2 cup thinly sliced red bell pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 2 tbsp toasted sesame seeds
For the Dressing
- 3 tbsp sesame oil
- 2 tbsp soy sauce or tamari for gluten-free
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tbsp maple syrup or honey
- 1 clove garlic minced
- 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Vegetables
- Shred the cabbage, julienne the carrots, and thinly slice the bell peppers. Chop the green onions and cilantro.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk together sesame oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, lime juice, maple syrup, garlic, and ginger until well combined.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
- In a large mixing bowl, add the shredded cabbage, carrots, bell peppers, green onions, and cilantro.
Step 4: Toss with Dressing
- Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss well to coat everything evenly.
Step 5: Add Crunch & Serve
- Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and serve immediately. If you have time, let the salad sit for 15 minutes for the flavors to meld.
Notes
- Make it a Meal: Add grilled tofu, shredded chicken, or edamame for extra protein.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep the dressing separate for best texture.
- Nutty Flavor Boost: Add crushed peanuts, almonds, or cashews for an extra crunchy bite.
- Spice it Up: Mix in red pepper flakes, sriracha, or chili oil for a spicy kick.
