Asian slaw is a vibrant, crunchy salad that combines the best of fresh vegetables with a bold, zesty dressing inspired by East Asian flavors. Unlike traditional creamy slaws, this dish is light, refreshing, and packed with contrasting textures—from crisp cabbage to crunchy peanuts and silky sesame oil.
Originating from the idea of incorporating Asian pantry staples like rice vinegar, soy sauce, and sesame oil into western-style slaw, this fusion dish has become a popular side for everything from grilled meats to noodles. Its versatility, ease of preparation, and refreshing taste make it a crowd-pleaser at picnics, barbecues, or weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
For the Slaw:
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3 cups shredded green cabbage
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2 cups shredded purple cabbage
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1 cup julienned carrots
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1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
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½ cup sliced green onions
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¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
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½ cup toasted slivered almonds (or peanuts)
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1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)
For the Dressing:
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3 tablespoons rice vinegar
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1 tablespoon soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
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1 tablespoon honey (or maple syrup for vegan)
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1 tablespoon lime juice
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2 teaspoons sesame oil
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3 tablespoons neutral oil (grapeseed or vegetable oil)
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1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
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1 clove garlic, minced
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Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
Substitutions:
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Vegan: Use maple syrup instead of honey.
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Nut-free: Skip almonds and use sunflower seeds.
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Low-carb: Swap carrots and red pepper for spiralized zucchini.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
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Prep the Vegetables:
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Wash and shred the green and purple cabbage.
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Julienne the carrots and red bell pepper.
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Chop the green onions and cilantro.
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Toast the Nuts:
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In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the slivered almonds or peanuts until golden (about 3–5 minutes). Set aside.
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Make the Dressing:
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In a small bowl, whisk together rice vinegar, soy sauce, honey (or maple syrup), lime juice, sesame oil, neutral oil, grated ginger, garlic, and red pepper flakes.
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Combine the Slaw:
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In a large mixing bowl, combine all the shredded vegetables and herbs.
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Dress and Toss:
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Pour the dressing over the slaw. Toss well to ensure everything is evenly coated.
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Garnish and Serve:
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Sprinkle with toasted nuts and sesame seeds just before serving.
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Total Time: 20 minutes
Avoid: Overdressing the slaw (add gradually), and don’t skip toasting the nuts—it makes a big difference!
Pro Tips and Cooking Techniques
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Chill the slaw for 10–15 minutes after dressing for enhanced flavor.
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Use a mandoline slicer for even, fine vegetable cuts.
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If making ahead, store dressing separately and mix right before serving.
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For a more filling salad, add grilled chicken or tofu on top.
Variations and Customizations
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Vegetarian/Vegan: Use maple syrup and skip fish sauce if using.
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Gluten-Free: Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.
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Low-Carb: Add spiralized veggies like cucumber or zucchini instead of carrots.
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Fusion Twist: Add Thai basil, mint, or use gochujang in the dressing for a Korean kick.
Serving Suggestions
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Perfect as a side with grilled chicken, fish, or BBQ tofu.
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Serve with Asian-style noodles, spring rolls, or sticky rice.
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Garnish with extra herbs, lime wedges, or a drizzle of sriracha mayo.
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For potlucks, serve in a large bowl with a decorative sprinkle of sesame seeds and cilantro.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)
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Calories: 210
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Protein: 5g
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Carbohydrates: 14g
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Fats: 15g
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Fiber: 4g
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Sugar: 7g
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Sodium: 310mg
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare all the components and store separately. Dress the slaw just before serving.
How long does it keep?
The dressed slaw lasts 1–2 days in the fridge, though it’s crunchiest when fresh.
Can I use pre-shredded coleslaw mix?
Absolutely. It’s a great time-saver—just add the fresh herbs and dressing.
How do I make it spicier?
Add more red pepper flakes, sriracha, or a dab of chili garlic sauce to the dressing.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Use an airtight container in the fridge. The texture softens but flavor holds well.
Closing Thoughts
Asian slaw is more than just a side—it’s a vibrant dish bursting with life, color, and flavor. Whether you’re making it for a quick lunch or a festive gathering, its crunch and zing will win hearts. Don’t be afraid to get creative with your own twist, and most importantly, have fun with it.
