Asian Cabbage Salad offers a vibrant and crunchy experience that brightens up any meal. This salad is not only refreshing but also incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or as a side dish for gatherings. With its colorful mix of cabbages, carrots, and a zesty dressing, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends. Serve it chilled for a delightful burst of flavor that will leave everyone wanting more!
Table of Contents
Asian Cabbage Salad Recipe Overview
What Makes This Salad Special
This Asian Cabbage Salad is special because it combines a variety of textures and flavors. The crunchy cabbage and carrots are perfectly complemented by the toasted almonds and the nutty peanut butter dressing, creating a satisfying dish that’s both healthy and delicious.
Key Ingredients for Asian Cabbage Salad
- ½ cup sliced or slivered almonds
- ½ small head green cabbage, finely sliced (about 3 cups)
- ½ small head red cabbage, finely sliced (about 3 cups)
- 1 medium red bell pepper, very thinly sliced
- 1 cup shredded carrots (about 2 medium)
- 1 cup frozen shelled edamame, thawed
- ½ cup chopped fresh cilantro
- ¼ cup rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon creamy peanut butter
- 1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger
How to Prepare Asian Cabbage Salad
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F. Spread the almonds on an ungreased baking sheet and toast for 4 to 6 minutes, stirring once halfway through. Remove from the oven and transfer to a bowl.
- In a large bowl, combine the green and red cabbage, bell pepper, carrots, edamame, and cilantro.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the dressing ingredients: rice vinegar, honey, soy sauce, peanut butter, and ginger. Pour enough dressing over the salad to moisten it, tossing to coat. Adjust the dressing quantity to taste. Add the toasted almonds and toss lightly again. For best flavor, let the salad sit for 30 minutes before serving.
Tips for Toasting Almonds
Toasting almonds enhances their flavor and adds a delightful crunch to your salad. Keep a close eye on them as they can burn quickly. Stirring halfway through ensures even toasting.
How to Properly Slice Cabbage
For perfectly sliced cabbage, cut the cabbage into quarters, remove the core, and then finely slice it into thin strips. This method ensures that each bite is tender and easy to chew.
Variations and Substitutions
Using Coleslaw Mix
If you’re short on time, feel free to substitute the green cabbage with a 16-ounce bag of prepared coleslaw mix. However, fresh slicing is recommended for the best texture.
Mason Jar Version
For a convenient mason jar version, add 3 tablespoons of olive oil to the dressing and layer the ingredients in jars. This makes for a quick grab-and-go meal that lasts up to 4 days.
Make Ahead and Storage Tips
Best Practices for Freshness
This salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days when dressed. For longer freshness, consider storing the ingredients separately and dressing them just before serving.
What to Serve with Asian Cabbage Salad
Protein Pairings
This Asian Cabbage Salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu. The salad’s bright flavors enhance the protein’s savory taste.
Complementary Dishes
Consider serving the salad alongside Egg Fried Rice, Chicken Chukka, or Easy Potsticker Soup for a delicious and well-rounded meal.
Recommended Tools for Preparation
Essential Kitchen Equipment
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Baking sheet
FAQs
How long does a Cabbage Salad last in the fridge?
When stored in an airtight container, dressed cabbage salad can last for 3 to 4 days in the refrigerator. For extended freshness, store the ingredients separately.
What to have with Asian salad?
Asian salad pairs well with grilled proteins like chicken or shrimp, and it complements dishes such as fried rice or potstickers.
What is Asian slaw made of?
Asian slaw typically consists of finely sliced cabbage, carrots, bell peppers, edamame, and a tangy dressing made from ingredients like rice vinegar, soy sauce, and peanut butter.
More Delicious Recipes to Try Next
Conclusion
This Easy Asian Cabbage Salad is a refreshing dish filled with vibrant flavors and textures, perfect for any occasion. For additional recipe inspiration, check out Pinterest for an endless array of delicious ideas that can complement your cooking adventures.
Easy Asian Cabbage Salad
Equipment
- Oven
- baking sheet
- Large bowl
- Whisk
Ingredients
- ½ cup sliced or slivered almonds
- ½ small head green cabbage, finely sliced (about 3 cups)
- ½ small head red cabbage, finely sliced (about 3 cups)
- 1 medium red bell pepper, very thinly sliced
- 1 cup shredded carrots (about 2 medium)
- 1 cup frozen shelled edamame, thawed
- ½ cup chopped fresh cilantro
- ¼ cup rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon creamy peanut butter
- 1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and toast the almonds on a baking sheet for 4 to 6 minutes, stirring halfway through, then transfer to a bowl.
- In a large bowl, mix the green and red cabbage, bell pepper, carrots, edamame, and cilantro.
- Whisk together the dressing ingredients in a separate bowl, then pour over the salad and toss to coat, adjusting to taste.
- Add the toasted almonds, toss lightly again, and let the salad sit for 30 minutes before serving for best flavor.