Dessert

Easy Crunchy Asian Slaw Recipe

Name: Easy Crunchy Asian Slaw Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 2 to 2 1/4 lb cabbage, shredded (about 6-7 cups); 3 scallions, sliced; 1 cup cilantro, chopped (or substitute Italian parsley); 3 tablespoons olive oil; 1 to 3 teaspoons toasted sesame oil (start conservatively and adjust to taste); 1/4 cup rice wine vinegar; 3 tablespoons sugar, maple syrup, honey, or coconut sugar; 1 tablespoon soy sauce (or gluten-free alternative like Bragg’s or coconut aminos); 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated (or ginger paste); 1 garlic clove, grated or garlic paste (optional, for punchy flavor); 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes or chili paste (optional); Toasted sesame seeds; Roasted, crushed peanuts or cashews

ByMaya Arden October 13, 2025October 13, 2025

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Introduction

This Easy Crunchy Asian Slaw is a vibrant and refreshing side dish with a perfect balance of tangy, sweet, and savory flavors. Crisp cabbage mixed with fresh herbs and a flavorful dressing makes it a quick and versatile addition to any meal.

An oval white bowl filled with a colorful coleslaw made of thin layers of shredded purple cabbage, white cabbage, and orange carrot strips mixed with green herbs and topped with light brown sesame seeds. A wooden spoon lies inside the bowl on top of the salad. The bowl is placed on a surface with a white marbled texture and is next to a bright purple flower and some green leaves. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 – 2 1/4 lb cabbage, shredded (about 6-7 cups)
3 scallions, sliced

1 cup cilantro, chopped (or substitute Italian parsley)
Asian Slaw Dressing:

3 tablespoons olive oil
1–3 teaspoons toasted sesame oil (start conservatively and add more to taste)

1/4 cup rice wine vinegar
3 tablespoons sugar, maple syrup, honey, or coconut sugar
1 tablespoon soy sauce (or gluten-free alternative like Braggs or coconut aminos)

1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated (or ginger paste)
1 garlic clove, grated (or garlic paste, optional)
1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon chili flakes or chili paste (optional)

Optional toppings:

Toasted sesame seeds

Roasted, crushed peanuts or cashews

Instructions

Step 1: In a large bowl, toss the shredded cabbage with sliced scallions and chopped cilantro.
Step 2: In a small bowl, whisk together all the Asian Slaw Dressing ingredients until well combined.

Step 3: Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss well to coat evenly.
Step 4: Taste the slaw and adjust salt, sweetness, or toasted sesame oil as needed.
Step 5: Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and/or crushed nuts before serving.

Tips & Variations

For a milder flavor, reduce or omit the chili flakes and garlic.
Use napa cabbage for a lighter, more tender slaw.
Substitute cilantro with fresh mint or basil for a different herbaceous note.

Add shredded carrots or bell peppers for extra color and crunch.
Make it vegan by using maple syrup or coconut sugar instead of honey in the dressing.

Storage

Store the slaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Dressing may cause the cabbage to soften over time, so for best texture, keep the dressing separate and toss just before serving. Reheat is not recommended; serve chilled or at room temperature.

How to Serve

A white bowl filled with a colorful salad made of thin strips of purple cabbage, white cabbage, orange carrots, and green herbs. The salad has a fresh, crunchy texture with visible sesame seeds scattered throughout. Two forks are lifting a mix of the salad, showing the vibrant layers of different colored vegetables. The background has a soft focus with a purple flower blurred behind the bowl, placed on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare this slaw in advance?

You can prep the cabbage and dressing separately ahead of time, but it’s best to combine them shortly before serving to keep the slaw crisp and fresh.