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

Easy Crunchy Asian Slaw (w/ BEST Asian Dressing!) is a delightful addition to any meal. This vibrant slaw is not only quick to prepare, taking just 20 minutes, but it’s also versatile enough to complement a variety of dishes. Whether you serve it alongside grilled chicken, toss it in tacos, or pile it on burgers, this slaw brings a refreshing crunch and a burst of flavor that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: Ready in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Versatile Usage: Great as a side dish for meats, a topping for tacos, or even as part of a healthy buddha bowl.
• Flavorful Dressing: The Best Asian Dressing elevates the slaw with rich flavors and a perfect balance of sweetness and tang.
• Vegan-Friendly: This recipe is completely plant-based, making it suitable for various dietary preferences.
• Easy to Make Ahead: Prepare it in advance for gatherings or meal prep without sacrificing freshness.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Easy Crunchy Asian Slaw effortlessly, having the right tools on hand is essential. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Large mixing bowl
• Small mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife

Why These Tools Matter

• Large mixing bowl: Allows for easy tossing of ingredients without spilling.
• Small mixing bowl: Perfect for whisking together your dressing without mess.
• Whisk: Ensures your dressing is well combined and smooth.
• Sharp knife: Makes chopping vegetables quick and safe.

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, toss together the shredded cabbage, sliced scallions, and chopped cilantro.
2. Ensure everything is evenly mixed so each bite has a blend of flavors.

Step 2: Whisk Together the Dressing

1. In a small mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, toasted sesame oil, rice grape juice vinegar, sugar (or alternative), soy sauce, grated ginger, and garlic if using.
2. Whisk until all ingredients are well blended and emulsified.

Step 3: Combine Slaw and Dressing

1. Pour the dressing over the slaw mixture in the large bowl.
2. Toss gently but thoroughly to coat all ingredients with the dressing.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed by adding more salt or sweetness from honey/sugar.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

1. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and roasted nuts before serving.
2. Enjoy your Easy Crunchy Asian Slaw chilled or at room temperature!

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

Easy Crunchy Asian Slaw is versatile and can complement various dishes. Whether you’re serving it at a barbecue or as part of a casual meal, this slaw adds a refreshing crunch that enhances any plate.

With Grilled Chicken

• Juicy grilled chicken pairs perfectly with the crisp slaw, adding a delightful contrast of textures.

In Tacos

• Use the slaw as a vibrant filling for tacos. It adds crunch and flavor, making your tacos even more enjoyable.

As a Burger Topping

• Add a generous scoop of slaw on top of burgers for an exciting twist. The flavors will elevate your burger experience.

Alongside Tofu

• Serve the slaw next to marinated and grilled tofu for a delicious vegan meal. The freshness balances the richness of the tofu nicely.

In Buddha Bowls

• Include the slaw in a buddha bowl for added nutrition and crunch. Mix it with grains, veggies, and your choice of protein for a satisfying dish.

As a Standalone Salad

• Enjoy this slaw on its own as a light salad. It’s refreshing and packed with flavor, perfect for warm days.

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

Making your Easy Crunchy Asian Slaw even better is simple with these tips. Follow these suggestions to enhance flavor and texture!

• Chill Before Serving: Letting the slaw sit in the fridge for about 30 minutes before serving allows flavors to meld beautifully.
• Adjust Sweetness: Depending on your taste, feel free to adjust the sweetness by adding more honey or maple syrup.
• Add More Veggies: For extra crunch and nutrition, incorporate other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots into the slaw.
• Use Fresh Herbs: Adding fresh herbs like mint or basil can elevate the flavor profile of your slaw.
• Experiment with Nuts: Try different nuts such as almonds or walnuts for added texture and flavor variation.
• Make Ahead: This slaw can be made ahead of time, making it ideal for meal prep or gatherings.

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

Pairing side dishes with Easy Crunchy Asian Slaw can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some fantastic options to consider:

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Tender chicken pieces marinated and grilled to perfection complement the crunchy flavors of the slaw.
2. Vegetable Stir-Fry: A colorful mix of stir-fried vegetables adds warmth and flavor alongside the coolness of the slaw.
3. Rice Noodle Salad: Light rice noodles tossed with fresh vegetables make an excellent base that pairs well with this crunchy side.
4. Baked Salmon: The rich, flaky texture of salmon contrasts nicely with the crispness of the slaw while providing omega-3 benefits.
5. Quinoa Pilaf: Nutty quinoa cooked with spices offers heartiness that complements the refreshing nature of the slaw.
6. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup provides comforting warmth that balances out the cold, crunchy salad beautifully.
7. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries add a sweet-savory element that pairs well with the tangy dressing in the slaw.
8. Tofu Satay: Grilled tofu skewers served with peanut sauce make for an exciting pairing that enhances both dishes’ flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Easy Crunchy Asian Slaw, it’s important to avoid common pitfalls that can affect flavor and texture.

• Overdressing the slaw: Adding too much dressing can lead to a soggy texture. Start with a small amount and adjust to taste.
• Using the wrong cabbage: Not all cabbages are created equal. Opt for green cabbage for the right crunch; avoid soft varieties like savoy.
• Skipping the ginger: Fresh ginger adds a unique zing. Don’t skip it; use freshly grated ginger or ginger paste for best results.
• Neglecting the seasoning: The balance of flavors is key. Always taste and adjust salt, sweetness, and sesame oil before serving.
• Forgetting to chill: Letting the slaw sit allows flavors to meld. Chill for at least 30 minutes for a more delicious dish.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• If possible, store the dressing separately until ready to serve.

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

• Freezing is not recommended due to texture changes.
• If you must freeze, consider freezing only the cabbage without dressing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.

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

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread slaw on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place slaw in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat in 30-second intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Sauté in a pan over medium heat for about 5 minutes until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this Easy Crunchy Asian Slaw special?

This slaw stands out due to its vibrant flavors from fresh ingredients and the BEST Asian dressing that perfectly complements any meal.

Can I customize my Easy Crunchy Asian Slaw?

Absolutely! Add your favorite veggies like bell peppers or carrots, or include proteins like chicken or tofu for extra substance.

How long does Easy Crunchy Asian Slaw last?

When stored properly in the refrigerator, this slaw will last up to three days while retaining its crunch.

Is this Easy Crunchy Asian Slaw suitable for meal prep?

Yes! It’s perfect for meal prep as it can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge, allowing flavors to develop.

Conclusion

Easy Crunchy Asian Slaw with the BEST Asian Dressing is not just quick to prepare but also versatile enough to complement various dishes. Whether served alongside grilled chicken or as a topping on tacos, this slaw brings freshness and flavor. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients!

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