Easy Crunchy Asian Slaw (w/ BEST Asian Dressing!)

Easy Crunchy Asian Slaw (w/ BEST Asian Dressing!) is a vibrant and refreshing salad that can be prepared in just 20 minutes. This slaw is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or looking for a quick side dish for dinner. Its crunchy texture and zesty dressing make it a standout choice, and it’s versatile enough to pair with grilled chicken, tofu, or even be used as a topping for tacos and burgers.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: In just 20 minutes, you can whip up this delicious slaw, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Dressing: The BEST Asian dressing elevates the slaw with a perfect balance of sweet and savory notes.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a side dish, in wraps, or as part of a Buddha bowl – the possibilities are endless!
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with fresh vegetables, this slaw is not only tasty but also nutritious and vegan-friendly.
• Make Ahead Friendly: Prepare it in advance and let the flavors meld together for an even better taste.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Easy Crunchy Asian Slaw efficiently, having the right tools on hand is essential.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Large mixing bowl
• Small mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Grater or garlic press

Why These Tools Matter

• Large mixing bowl: Provides ample space to toss all ingredients without spilling.
• Small mixing bowl: Ideal for whisking together the dressing ingredients thoroughly.
• Whisk: Ensures the dressing is well combined for an even flavor throughout the slaw.
• Grater or garlic press: Makes it easy to add fresh ginger or garlic quickly without much fuss.

Ingredients

For the Slaw

• 2 – 2 ¼ lb cabbage – shredded – roughly 6-7 cups (see notes)
• 3 scallions, sliced
• 1 cup cilantro, chopped (or sub Italian Parsley)

For the Dressing

• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1-3 teaspoons toasted sesame oil (start conservatively; add more to taste at the end)
• ¼ cup rice grape juice vinegar
• 3 tablespoons sugar, maple syrup, honey, or coconut sugar
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce (or GF alternative like Braggs or Coconut Amino Acids)
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated, or use ginger paste
• 1 garlic clove, grated or use garlic paste (garlic is optional; adds punchy flavor)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon chili flakes or chili paste (optional)
• Toasted sesame seeds
• Roasted, crushed peanuts or cashews

How to Make Easy Crunchy Asian Slaw (w/ BEST Asian Dressing!)

Step 1: Prepare the Slaw Ingredients

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cabbage with sliced scallions and chopped cilantro.
2. Toss these ingredients together until well mixed.

Step 2: Make the Asian Dressing

1. In a small mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, toasted sesame oil, rice grape juice vinegar, sugar (or alternative), soy sauce, grated ginger, grated garlic (if using), salt, and chili flakes if desired.
2. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary; you may want to add more sweetness or salt according to your preference.

Step 3: Combine Slaw and Dressing

1. Pour the dressing over the slaw mixture in the large bowl.
2. Toss everything together until all vegetables are coated evenly with the dressing.

Step 4: Add Final Touches

1. Garnish your Easy Crunchy Asian Slaw with toasted sesame seeds and crushed peanuts or cashews before serving.
2. Serve immediately or let it chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes to allow flavors to blend.

Now you’re ready to enjoy your delightful Easy Crunchy Asian Slaw!

How to Serve Easy Crunchy Asian Slaw (w/ BEST Asian Dressing!)

Easy Crunchy Asian Slaw is a versatile dish that complements many meals. Its bright flavors and crunchy texture make it an excellent addition to various main courses or a refreshing topping for tacos and sandwiches.

With Grilled Chicken

• Juicy grilled chicken pairs perfectly with the slaw, adding protein and flavor. Serve the chicken on top of a bed of slaw for a vibrant meal.

In Tacos

• Use Easy Crunchy Asian Slaw as a filling in soft or hard-shell tacos. The crunchiness adds a delightful texture contrast to the tender fillings.

On Burgers

• Top your favorite burger with this slaw for an unexpected twist. The slaw’s flavors will enhance any beef or chicken burger.

As a Buddha Bowl Component

• Add a generous scoop of slaw to your buddha bowl, alongside grains, roasted veggies, and proteins. It brings color and crunch to the dish.

With Tofu Stir-Fry

• Serve the slaw alongside a tofu stir-fry for a delicious vegetarian option. The freshness of the slaw complements the savory stir-fried tofu beautifully.

As a Standalone Salad

• Enjoy Easy Crunchy Asian Slaw on its own as a light meal or side dish. It’s refreshing enough to be satisfying without being heavy.

How to Perfect Easy Crunchy Asian Slaw (w/ BEST Asian Dressing!)

Perfecting your Easy Crunchy Asian Slaw is all about getting the balance of flavors and textures just right. Here are some tips to elevate your dish:

• Fresh Ingredients: Use freshly shredded cabbage and crisp vegetables for maximum crunch and flavor.
• Adjust Sweetness: Taste the dressing before adding it to the slaw. Adjust sweetness with honey or maple syrup based on your preference.
• Chill Before Serving: Letting the slaw chill in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes allows flavors to meld together beautifully.
• Experiment with Herbs: Try swapping cilantro for Italian parsley or adding mint for an extra layer of freshness.
• Add Protein: Incorporate cooked chicken or grilled shrimp into the slaw for a more filling option.
• Customize Spice Level: Adjust chili flakes or omit them entirely based on your heat tolerance.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Crunchy Asian Slaw (w/ BEST Asian Dressing!)

When planning your meal, pairing Easy Crunchy Asian Slaw with complementary side dishes enhances the overall dining experience. Here are some great options:

1. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini, brushed with olive oil and grilled until tender.
2. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice cooked with herbs and spices makes a great base for any protein served alongside the slaw.
3. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and lemon dressing adds brightness to your plate.
4. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes roasted until crispy provide a sweet contrast to the tanginess of the slaw.
5. Edamame Beans: Steamed edamame sprinkled with sea salt offers protein while keeping things light.
6. Spring Rolls: Fresh spring rolls filled with vegetables and served with peanut sauce create an exciting appetizer option.
7. Cucumber Salad: A simple cucumber salad dressed in vinegar complements the flavors of the slaw nicely.
8. Baked Potatoes: Lightly seasoned baked potatoes can serve as a hearty side that pairs well with any main course alongside the slaw.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Easy Crunchy Asian Slaw with the BEST Asian Dressing, a few missteps can affect the final result. Here are some common mistakes to avoid.

• Ignoring fresh ingredients: Using wilted or old vegetables can lead to a less appealing slaw. Always choose fresh cabbage, scallions, and herbs for the best flavor and crunch.
• Overdressing the slaw: Adding too much dressing can make your slaw soggy. Start with a small amount of dressing and add more gradually until you reach your desired taste.
• Not letting the flavors meld: Serving immediately may limit the flavor development. Allowing the slaw to rest for 10-15 minutes after dressing enhances its taste as the ingredients combine.
• Skipping salt and sugar adjustments: Each ingredient varies in flavor strength. Taste and adjust salt and sweetness after mixing to ensure a well-balanced dressing.
• Neglecting toppings: Skipping garnishes like sesame seeds or nuts can make your slaw less exciting. These toppings add texture and visual appeal, so don’t forget them!

Storage and Reheating

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep the dressing separate if you want to maintain crunchiness.

Freezing Easy Crunchy Asian Slaw (w/ BEST Asian Dressing!)

• It’s not recommended to freeze this slaw as it may change texture.
• If necessary, freeze without dressing for up to one month.

Reheating Easy Crunchy Asian Slaw (w/ BEST Asian Dressing!)

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat on a baking sheet for about 5-10 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat for 1-2 minutes at medium power.
• Stovetop: Warm over low heat in a skillet while stirring gently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Easy Crunchy Asian Slaw (w/ BEST Asian Dressing!)?

Easy Crunchy Asian Slaw is a vibrant salad made with fresh cabbage, scallions, cilantro, and topped with a flavorful Asian dressing that brings everything together.

How long does it take to prepare Easy Crunchy Asian Slaw?

This recipe takes just about 20 minutes from start to finish, making it an ideal quick side dish or topping.

Can I customize my Easy Crunchy Asian Slaw?

Absolutely! You can add other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots, swap cilantro for parsley, or adjust the sweetness based on your preference.

Is Easy Crunchy Asian Slaw healthy?

Yes! This slaw is vegan-friendly, low in calories, and packed with nutrients from fresh vegetables. It’s a great addition to any meal!

Conclusion

Easy Crunchy Asian Slaw with the BEST Asian Dressing is not only quick and simple but also incredibly versatile. Perfect as a side dish or topping for various meals, this slaw allows room for customization based on your tastes. Try it today and elevate your meal experience!

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