Crunchy Asian Coleslaw

Name: Crunchy Asian Coleslaw
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: PT-486647H48M57S
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 8 cups shredded cabbage; 3 green onions, sliced; 1/2 cup thinly sliced red onion; 1-2 cups shredded carrots; 1/2 cup chopped cilantro; 3 tablespoons vegetable oil; 2 teaspoons sesame oil; 1/4 cup rice vinegar; 3 tablespoons honey; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 clove garlic, minced; 2 teaspoons grated ginger; 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes; Salt and pepper to taste; Crushed peanuts for topping; Toasted sesame seeds for topping

Published: May 27, 2025

by Simon

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This recipe requires just 20 minutes of prep time, making it perfect for busy days.
Flavorful: The combination of sesame oil, honey, and ginger creates a delightful dressing that elevates the taste.
Versatile: Serve it as a side dish or as a topping for tacos or sandwiches; it fits any occasion!
Healthy Ingredients: Packed with fresh veggies, this coleslaw is not only tasty but also nutritious.
Make Ahead: It holds up well in the fridge, allowing you to prepare it in advance.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Crunchy Asian Coleslaw, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes preparation easier and more efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Mixing bowl
Whisk
Cutting board
Knife

Importance of Each Tool

Mixing bowl: A large bowl allows you to mix all ingredients thoroughly without spilling.
Whisk: Perfect for blending the dressing ingredients smoothly together.
Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for chopping vegetables safely.
Knife: A sharp knife ensures clean cuts when slicing veggies.

Ingredients

Shredded cabbage and carrots are mixed with onion and cilantro, then tossed with a slightly sweet and savory soy sauce dressing in this colorful slaw that’s perfect with almost any meal.

For the Slaw

8 cups shredded cabbage
3 green onions (sliced)
1/2 cup thinly sliced red onion
1-2 cups shredded carrot
1/2 cup chopped cilantro

For the Dressing

3 tablespoons vegetable oil
2 teaspoons sesame oil
1/4 cup rice vinegar
3 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 clove garlic (minced)
2 teaspoons grated ginger
1/4 teaspoon chili flakes
Salt and pepper (to taste)

For Garnish

Crushed peanuts (for topping)
Toasted sesame seeds (for topping)

How to Make Crunchy Asian Coleslaw

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

In a large bowl, toss together the shredded cabbage, green onions, red onion, shredded carrots, and chopped cilantro until well mixed.

Step 2: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, sesame oil, rice vinegar, honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, grated ginger, chili flakes, salt, and pepper until combined.

Step 3: Combine Slaw and Dressing

Add your desired amount of dressing to the slaw mixture. Toss everything together gently until all ingredients are coated well.

Step 4: Add Garnishes

Just before serving, sprinkle crushed peanuts and toasted sesame seeds over the top for added crunch. Alternatively, serve them on the side for guests to add as they like.

How to Serve Crunchy Asian Coleslaw

Crunchy Asian Coleslaw is a versatile dish that pairs wonderfully with many meals. Whether you’re serving it as a side or a main dish, there are plenty of creative ways to enjoy this slaw.

As a Side Dish

With Grilled Meats: This slaw complements grilled chicken, pork, or beef beautifully, adding a refreshing crunch.
Tacos: Use the coleslaw as a topping for fish or shrimp tacos for an extra layer of flavor and texture.

In Wraps

Lettuce Wraps: Fill large lettuce leaves with Crunchy Asian Coleslaw and your choice of protein for a light meal.
Spring Rolls: Roll up the slaw in rice paper with fresh herbs and shrimp for a delightful appetizer.

As a Salad Base

Mixed Green Salad: Combine the coleslaw with mixed greens and additional veggies for a more filling salad.
Quinoa Bowl: Add the coleslaw on top of quinoa, along with avocado and grilled vegetables for a nutritious bowl.

How to Perfect Crunchy Asian Coleslaw

To make sure your Crunchy Asian Coleslaw is as delicious as possible, consider these tips:

Bold Cabbage Choice: Use fresh cabbage for the best crunch. Red and green cabbage can add color and variety.
Bold Dressing Balance: Adjust the sweetness or acidity by modifying honey and vinegar levels according to taste.
Bold Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh vegetables like cilantro and green onions to enhance flavor and texture.
Bold Texture Variation: Consider adding other crunchy elements like bell peppers or radishes for added interest.
Bold Resting Time: Let the slaw sit for about 15 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld together.

Best Side Dishes for Crunchy Asian Coleslaw

Crunchy Asian Coleslaw pairs well with various side dishes that enhance its vibrant flavors. Here are some great options:

Grilled Teriyaki Chicken: Marinated chicken grilled to perfection adds savory notes that complement the slaw.
Steamed Jasmine Rice: Fluffy rice balances the tanginess of the coleslaw, making it an ideal pairing.
Sesame Noodles: Cold sesame noodles provide another layer of Asian flavors that harmonize well with the slaw.
Spicy Stir-Fried Tofu: The crispy tofu brings protein and spice, making it a hearty addition alongside this slaw.
Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup offers comfort and contrasts nicely with the cold crunch of coleslaw.
Crispy Egg Rolls: These savory bites bring texture and flavor, enhancing any meal featuring Crunchy Asian Coleslaw.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Crunchy Asian Coleslaw, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your slaw turns out perfectly.

Overdressing the Slaw: Adding too much dressing can make the coleslaw soggy. Start with a small amount and gradually add more until you reach your preferred flavor.
Using Old Veggies: Freshness matters! Ensure your cabbage, carrots, and herbs are crisp and vibrant for the best texture and taste.
Ignoring Flavor Balance: A great coleslaw has both sweet and savory elements. Don’t skimp on honey or soy sauce; they enhance the overall flavor profile.
Skipping the Toppings: Toppings like crushed peanuts and sesame seeds add crunch and flavor. Always include them for a delightful finishing touch!
Not Letting it Chill: Allowing the slaw to sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes helps flavors meld together. Don’t rush this step for optimal taste.

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Keep toppings separate until serving to maintain crunchiness.

Freezing Crunchy Asian Coleslaw

Freezing is not recommended as it can alter texture.
If you must freeze, consider freezing just the dressing separately.

Reheating Crunchy Asian Coleslaw

Oven: Not recommended as it can wilt the vegetables.
Microwave: Reheat in short intervals (10-15 seconds) if necessary, but enjoy cold for best results.
Stovetop: Quickly sauté on low heat with a splash of water, but avoid overcooking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I customize my Crunchy Asian Coleslaw?

Yes! Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas for extra color and crunch.

How long does Crunchy Asian Coleslaw last in the fridge?

The coleslaw lasts about 3 days when stored properly in an airtight container.

What can I serve with Crunchy Asian Coleslaw?

This slaw pairs well with grilled meats, tacos, or as a refreshing side dish for any meal.

Is Crunchy Asian Coleslaw gluten-free?

You can make it gluten-free by using tamari instead of regular soy sauce.

Final Thoughts

Crunchy Asian Coleslaw is not only vibrant and delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it with different veggies or proteins. This recipe is perfect for summer barbecues or as a quick side dish any time of year. Give it a try, and don’t hesitate to experiment with flavors that you love!