Asian Slaw with Sesame Ginger Dressing

Asian Slaw with Sesame Ginger Dressing is a vibrant and refreshing dish that brightens up any meal. Perfect for potlucks, barbecues, or a healthy side to your weeknight dinner, this Asian slaw combines the crunch of fresh vegetables with nutty flavors and a zesty dressing. It’s not only easy to prepare but also packed with nutrients, making it a standout addition to your culinary repertoire.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This slaw can be prepared in just 20 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy days.
• Flavorful and Nutritious: The combination of fresh cabbage, carrots, and quinoa offers a delightful mix of taste and health benefits.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a side dish, main course, or even as a filling in wraps or sandwiches.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or nuts for a personal touch.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This salad stays fresh for days when stored properly, allowing you to enjoy it throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

To create your delicious Asian Slaw with Sesame Ginger Dressing, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right tools makes preparation smooth and efficient.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Mixing Bowls
• Whisk or Blender
• Baking Sheet
• Skillet

Why These Tools Matter

• Mixing Bowls: Necessary for combining the ingredients without spills.
• Whisk or Blender: Helps achieve a smooth and well-blended dressing.
• Baking Sheet: Ideal for toasting nuts and seeds evenly.
• Skillet: A versatile tool for quick stovetop tasks like toasting.

Ingredients

Mouthwatering coleslaw with red cabbage, carrots, and quinoa in a sweet and savory Asian slaw dressing. This salad always disappears fast!

For the Salad

• 1/3 cup Cashews (chopped)
• 1 tablespoon Sesame Seeds (black or white)
• 3 cups Red Cabbage (1/3 pound shredded)
• 3 cups Napa Cabbage or Green Cabbage (1/3 pound shredded)
• 1 cup Cooked Quinoa (optional)
• 1 cup Carrots (1/4 pound shredded)
• 1/4 cup Fresh Cilantro (chopped)
• 2 Green Onions (thinly sliced)

For the Dressing

• 1/4 cup Unseasoned Rice Vinegar
• 1 tablespoon Maple Syrup (or preferred sweetener)
• 2 teaspoons Soy Sauce (or Tamari)
• 1 teaspoon Fresh Ginger (finely grated)
• 2 cloves Garlic (minced)
• 3 tablespoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil
• 1 tablespoon Sesame Oil (light or dark)
• Sea Salt (to taste)
• Black Pepper (to taste)

How to Make Asian Slaw with Sesame Ginger Dressing

Step 1: Toast the Nuts and Seeds

To toast the cashews and sesame seeds:
– OVEN METHOD: Preheat oven to 350°F. Place nuts and seeds on a baking sheet and bake for 3-5 minutes until toasted.
– STOVETOP METHOD: Place nuts and seeds in a small skillet over medium heat. Heat for about 3 minutes until toasted, stirring as needed.
Transfer them to a plate to cool completely. Cover and store at room temperature until ready to serve.

Step 2: Prepare the Slaw

In a large mixing bowl:
– Combine the shredded red cabbage, Napa cabbage or green cabbage, cooked quinoa (if using), shredded carrots, chopped cilantro, and sliced green onions.
– Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate until you are ready to dress it.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

In another mixing bowl:
– Combine the rice vinegar, maple syrup, soy sauce, grated ginger, and minced garlic.
– Slowly drizzle in the extra virgin olive oil and sesame oil while whisking continuously until well combined.
– Add sea salt and black pepper to taste.

Step 4: Assemble Everything Together

Once ready to serve:
– Add the toasted cashews and sesame seeds to the salad mixture.
– Pour the dressing over the slaw ingredients.
– Toss everything together gently until well mixed.

Step 5: Store Leftovers

If you have leftovers:
– Dressed slaw can be stored in an airtight container for up to 24 hours.
– Non-dressed slaw can be stored separately for up to 5 days.

Now you’re ready to enjoy this delicious Asian Slaw with Sesame Ginger Dressing!

How to Serve Asian Slaw with Sesame Ginger Dressing

Serving Asian Slaw with Sesame Ginger Dressing is an excellent way to elevate any meal. This vibrant salad pairs well with a variety of dishes and can be enjoyed in multiple ways.

As a Standalone Salad

• Fresh and crunchy, this slaw makes a great main dish when served alone. The combination of cabbage, carrots, and quinoa delivers a satisfying bite.

With Grilled Chicken

• Pairing this slaw with grilled chicken adds protein and enhances the flavors. The sesame ginger dressing complements the smokiness of the chicken perfectly.

As a Taco Filling

• Use Asian slaw as a refreshing filling for tacos. Load it up in soft tortillas with grilled chicken or turkey for a delightful twist on traditional tacos.

On Top of Rice Bowls

• Enhance your rice bowls by adding a generous scoop of this slaw. It adds a crunchy texture and bright flavor that balances the richness of other ingredients.

In Sandwiches or Wraps

• Incorporate the slaw into sandwiches or wraps for added crunch and flavor. It works beautifully with turkey or chicken for a delicious lunch option.

As a Side Dish

• This slaw makes an excellent side dish for barbecues or family gatherings. Serve it alongside grilled meats or hearty vegetable dishes to complement their flavors.

How to Perfect Asian Slaw with Sesame Ginger Dressing

To achieve the best results with your Asian Slaw, consider these helpful tips:

• Chop vegetables finely: Smaller pieces will help blend the flavors better and create a more cohesive salad.
• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh produce will enhance the taste of your slaw, making it vibrant and appealing.
• Toast nuts and seeds: Toasting cashews and sesame seeds before adding them brings out their natural flavors and adds depth to the dish.
• Let it marinate: Allowing the dressed slaw to sit for at least 15 minutes before serving helps meld the flavors together beautifully.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste before serving; you can always add more salt, pepper, or sweetener to suit your preferences.
• Experiment with toppings: Feel free to add other toppings like avocado or sliced radishes for extra flavor and texture.

Best Side Dishes for Asian Slaw with Sesame Ginger Dressing

Pairing side dishes with your Asian Slaw enhances your meal experience. Here are some delicious options:

1. Grilled Lemon Chicken: Juicy chicken marinated in lemon juice complements the tangy slaw.
2. Teriyaki Beef Skewers: Sweet and savory beef skewers offer an excellent contrast to the salad’s freshness.
3. Steamed Edamame: Lightly salted edamame provides protein while maintaining a clean palate between bites.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies bring warmth and earthiness that balance well with the cool slaw.
5. Rice Noodle Salad: A light rice noodle salad with herbs can enhance your meal’s overall freshness without overpowering it.
6. Coconut Rice: Fragrant coconut rice adds creaminess that pairs wonderfully with the crunchiness of the slaw.
7. Miso Soup: A warm miso soup serves as a comforting complement alongside cold salads, creating perfect harmony in textures.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Asian Slaw with Sesame Ginger Dressing, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Avoiding these will ensure your dish is delicious and well-balanced.

• Neglecting Fresh Ingredients: Using wilted or old vegetables can ruin the dish. Always choose fresh cabbage and carrots for the best flavor and crunch.
• Ignoring Toasting Nuts and Seeds: Skipping this step can lead to a bland salad. Toasting cashews and sesame seeds enhances their flavor and adds a delightful crunch.
• Overdressing the Slaw: Adding too much dressing can make the slaw soggy. Dress the salad just before serving to maintain its crispness.
• Skipping the Refrigeration Step: Failing to chill the slaw before serving can lessen its flavor. Allow it to sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes for the flavors to meld.
• Using Low-Quality Oils: Using inferior oils can affect taste. Opt for high-quality extra virgin olive oil and sesame oil for depth of flavor.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container to keep it fresh.
• The dressed slaw lasts up to 24 hours in the fridge.
• Non-dressed slaw can be stored for up to 5 days.

Freezing Asian Slaw with Sesame Ginger Dressing

• Freezing is not recommended, as it can alter texture.
• If necessary, freeze undressed slaw in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

Reheating Asian Slaw with Sesame Ginger Dressing

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, spread on a baking sheet, and warm for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in short intervals until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over medium heat; stir occasionally until heated.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Asian Slaw with Sesame Ginger Dressing?

Asian Slaw with Sesame Ginger Dressing is a vibrant salad made with fresh cabbages, carrots, quinoa, nuts, and a flavorful dressing that combines sesame oil, ginger, and soy sauce.

Can I customize the ingredients?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or cucumbers. You can also include proteins such as chicken or tofu for added nutrition.

How long does it take to prepare?

The preparation time for this salad is approximately 20 minutes, making it a quick and healthy option for any meal.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes! If you use Tamari instead of soy sauce, this Asian Slaw with Sesame Ginger Dressing can be easily made gluten-free.

Conclusion

Asian Slaw with Sesame Ginger Dressing is not only delicious but also versatile. This colorful salad works well as a side dish or main course. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite veggies or proteins. Give it a try today!

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