The crunch of fresh cabbage always brings me back to summer barbecues on the porch. This CRUNCHY ASIAN CABBAGE SALAD is the perfect side dishbright, colorful, and refreshing. It’s loved for its vibrant flavors and that satisfying crunch in every bite!
Imagine layering crispy cabbage with crunchy peanuts and just the right amount of tangy dressing. It’s like your favorite slaw, but with an exciting twist that comes together in minutes. Plus, it uses simple pantry staples, making it a breeze to whip up on a busy weeknight.
Started making this salad a few summers ago at family gatherings, and it always gets rave reviews. My cousin once declared it the “star of the picnic” after one bite! The secret? Toss the veggies just before serving to keep that delightful crunch. With over a decade of recipe testing behind me, I can promise you’ll want this dish on your table!
Yesica Andrews
Crunchy Asian Cabbage Salad – Easy and Delicious Recipe
This Crunchy Asian Cabbage Salad is a refreshing and vibrant dish perfect for potlucks or a light meal. Featuring crunchy Asian cabbage salad ramen pieces and an easy, flavorful dressing, this recipe blends the crispness of fresh veggies with the nuttiness of slivered almonds and sesame seeds. Enjoy a vegan crunchy cabbage salad sesame style with the added protein boost of shelled edamame and the optional sunflower seeds for extra texture.
3 oz. package ramen noodles – broken into pieces, and toasted
1/2 cup slivered almonds -toasted
2 teaspoons sesame seeds
sunflower seeds – optional topping
1/2 cup regular sesame oil – or canola oil
1/4 cup honey
1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
2 Tablespoons soy sauce – or a few dashes more
2 teaspoons chili paste or sriracha – for a little spice and taste (optional)
salt and pepper – to taste
Method
Prepare the dressing by whisking together the sesame oil, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, honey, chili paste or sriracha if using, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Set aside or refrigerate if making ahead.
Heat the frozen shelled edamame in the microwave until warm, then sprinkle lightly with salt and let cool.
Break the ramen noodles into small pieces and toast them along with the slivered almonds in a dry nonstick skillet over medium heat until golden and fragrant. Allow to cool.
In a large bowl, toss together the cabbage slaw, chopped red cabbage, shredded carrots, diced green onions, cooled edamame, toasted ramen, toasted almonds, and sesame seeds.
Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad, mixing thoroughly to coat all ingredients evenly. Add sunflower seeds on top if desired before serving.
Notes
If you prefer, omit the red cabbage and use extra green cabbage mix instead. For the best crunch, add the ramen noodles, almonds, and sunflower seeds right before serving. The salad can be dressed about an hour ahead for deeper flavor development. Dress individual servings separately if you don’t plan to eat all at once.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Simple to Make: With just a handful of ingredients, this CRUNCHY ASIAN CABBAGE SALAD comes together in a flash, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
Full of Flavor: From the nutty sesame oil to the sweetness of honey, this salad bursts with flavors that dance on your palate.
Healthy & Wholesome: Packed with fresh veggies and protein-rich edamame, it’s a nutritious choice that doesn’t compromise on taste.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a potluck or a picnic, this salad shines as a delightful side that everyone will rave about!
Key Ingredients & Tools
Cabbage Slaw: The star of the show! It provides that irresistible crunch.
Edamame: Adds a pop of color and protein to keep everyone satisfied.
Ramen Noodles: When toasted, they offer an extra crunch that’s hard to resist!
Dressing Ingredients: Simple pantry staples like sesame oil, honey, and apple cider vinegar come together to create a flavor-packed dressing.
Tools: A large mixing bowl for combining ingredients, a whisk or jar for shaking up the dressing, and a nonstick skillet for toasting the ramen and almonds.
How It Works Step-by-Step
Make the Dressing: In a jar or bowl, mix the sesame oil, honey, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, chili paste (if using), and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Shake or whisk until well combined.
Prep the Edamame: Microwave the shelled edamame until warm, season with a pinch of salt, and set aside to cool.
Toast the Ramen and Almonds: In a nonstick skillet, break up the ramen and add slivered almonds. Toast over medium heat until fragrant and slightly browned. Let them cool down.
Combine It All: In a large bowl, toss together the cabbage slaw, red cabbage, carrots, green onions, cooked edamame, and the toasted almonds and ramen. Drizzle the dressing over and mix well.
Finish with Toppings: Just before serving, sprinkle with sesame seeds and sunflower seeds for an extra touch of crunch.
Troubleshooting & Tweaks
Too Wet? The dressing can sometimes make the salad soggy. Add dressing gradually, mixing well after each addition to ensure it’s just right.
Not Crunchy Enough? Make sure to add the toasted ramen and almonds just before serving to keep that satisfying crunch!
Need a Recipe Update? Feel free to substitute the red cabbage with more green cabbage if that’s what you have on hand; it still keeps the salad vibrant.
Serving & Storage Tips
Serving Suggestions:
This salad is a fantastic side for grilled meats or Asian-inspired dishes.
Add protein like grilled chicken or tofu to turn it into a filling main dish.
Pack it for lunches or serve it at your next family gathering for a refreshing take!
Storage Notes:
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 daysbut remember, the crunch might soften as it sits.
If you plan to serve the salad later, consider keeping the dressing separate until just before serving.
Component
Storage Tips
Salad (without dressing)
Up to 2 days in the fridge; keep crunchiness by leaving out ramen and almonds until serving.
Dressing
Can be stored in the fridge for up to a week; shake before using.
Toasted Ramen & Almonds
Best eaten fresh; store in an airtight container if necessary, but they may lose crunch.
Expert Says
Cabbage is a cruciferous vegetable rich in vitamins C and K, making your Crunchy Asian Cabbage Salad not only delicious but also nutrient-dense. The crisp texture adds a satisfying bite while promoting digestion due to its high fiber content. Incorporating a variety of colorful ingredients also boosts its antioxidant benefits.
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The Road to Crunchy Asian Cabbage Salad
Crafting the ideal Crunchy Asian Cabbage Salad was quite the adventure! I learned the hard way that over-dressing left me with a soggy mess instead of the crisp, vibrant bowl I envisioned. After several tasting sessions with family, I finally struck the perfect balance of flavors and textures that make this salad a true winner at our dinner table.
FAQs ( Crunchy Asian Cabbage Salad )
What are the main ingredients in this recipe?
This dish mainly features shredded cabbage, carrots, green onions, and a crunchy element like almonds or peanuts. Toss in a flavorful Asian dressing to tie it all together, and feel free to customize with your favorite veggies.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely! To keep the dish vegan, ensure your dressing is free from animal products. You can use substituted ingredients like sesame oil and soy sauce for a delicious flavor while remaining plant-based.
How long can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. However, for the best texture, it’s advisable to add the dressing just before serving to prevent the cabbage from wilting.
Can I add ramen noodles to this dish?
Yes, adding ramen noodles is a great way to enhance the dish! Simply cook and cool the noodles, then toss them in with the shredded vegetables and dressing for a delightful twist.
What dressing works best?
A classic Asian vinaigrette made with soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil complements the flavors perfectly. Adjust the sweetness with a little honey or maple syrup if desired, depending on your taste preferences.
Conclusion
You’ll love how this CRUNCHY ASIAN CABBAGE SALAD brings vibrant crunch and delightful flavors to your table in under 30 minutes. It’s a perfect balance of health and comfort that’s so easy to preparetrust me, your family will ask for seconds!
Feel free to add a splash of lime for an extra zing or swap edamame for your favorite beans. If you have leftovers, keep the dressing separate to maintain that signature crunch when you enjoy it later. A trick I learned from my aunt’s kitchen!
I’d love to see your versions of this saladdid you grow up with something similar? Share your creations with me, and don’t forget to save this recipe for your next gathering. Cooking is about connection and love, and this salad is sure to bring everyone together!
With a passion for wholesome cooking inspired by family traditions, I create healthy, simple recipes focused on sourdough, shrimp, chicken, and balanced meals for everyday wellness.
Every recipe here is tested in my kitchen using U.S. measurements and easy-to-find ingredients, so you can cook confidently.
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