Asian Slaw with Peanut Sesame Ginger Dressing

Name: Asian Slaw with Peanut Sesame Ginger Dressing
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 4 cups shredded green cabbage; 1 cup shredded purple cabbage; 1 cup shredded carrots; 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced; 1 cup cooked and shelled edamame; 6 tablespoons rice vinegar; 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, peeled and minced; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 3 tablespoons vegetable or canola oil; 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil (Asian sesame oil); 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter; 3 tablespoons soy sauce; 3 tablespoons honey; 2 scallions, thinly sliced; 1/2 cup chopped peanuts (reserve about 1 tablespoon to use as garnish); 1/2 cup loosely packed chopped fresh cilantro; Sesame seeds for garnishing (optional)

Published: May 29, 2025

by Alexia

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Flavor Explosion: The combination of fresh ingredients and a zesty dressing creates an irresistible flavor profile.
Quick to Prepare: With only 20 minutes of prep time, this recipe fits perfectly into a busy schedule.
Health-Conscious Choice: Packed with veggies and protein-rich edamame, this slaw is nutritious and satisfying.
Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as a refreshing side dish or make it the star of your meal.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Its vibrant colors and crunch are sure to impress guests at any gathering.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making Asian Slaw with Peanut Sesame Ginger Dressing, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Large mixing bowl
Medium bowl
Whisk
Knife
Cutting board
Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

Large mixing bowl: A spacious bowl allows for easy tossing of ingredients without spilling.
Whisk: Perfect for blending the dressing ingredients thoroughly to achieve a smooth consistency.
Knife: A sharp knife ensures clean cuts for vegetables, enhancing the overall presentation.

Ingredients

Asian Slaw – This Asian coleslaw is crispy, crunchy and tossed in the most flavorful Peanut Sesame Ginger Dressing. This Asian Slaw recipe is easy to make and great served as a side dish or main salad.

For the Dressing

6 tablespoons rice vinegar
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, peeled and minced
2 garlic cloves, minced
3 tablespoons vegetable or canola oil
1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil (Asian sesame oil)
1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
3 tablespoons soy sauce
3 tablespoons honey

For the Slaw

4 cups shredded green cabbage
1 cup shredded purple cabbage
1 cup shredded carrots
1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
1 cup cooked and shelled edamame
2 scallions, thinly sliced
1/2 cup chopped peanuts (reserve about 1 tablespoon to use as garnish)
1/2 cup loosely packed chopped fresh cilantro

For Garnish

Sesame seeds for garnishing (optional)

How to Make Asian Slaw with Peanut Sesame Ginger Dressing

Step 1: Make the Ginger Peanut Dressing

In a medium bowl, whisk together:
1. Rice vinegar
2. Fresh ginger
3. Garlic
4. Vegetable oil
5. Toasted sesame oil
6. Creamy peanut butter
7. Soy sauce
8. Honey

Continue whisking until well combined. Set aside to let flavors meld.

Step 2: Prepare the Asian Slaw

In a large bowl, combine:
1. Green cabbage
2. Purple cabbage
3. Carrots
4. Edamame
5. Scallions
6. Peanuts
7. Cilantro

Pour the prepared dressing over the slaw mixture and toss until everything is well coated.

Step 3: Garnish and Serve

Garnish with reserved chopped peanuts and sprinkle sesame seeds on top if desired. Serve immediately or refrigerate for later enjoyment!

How to Serve Asian Slaw with Peanut Sesame Ginger Dressing

Asian Slaw with Peanut Sesame Ginger Dressing is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether as a refreshing side or a hearty main, this slaw is sure to impress. Here are some creative serving suggestions.

As a Side Dish

Serve alongside grilled chicken for a balanced meal.
Pair with pan-seared salmon for a light and healthy dinner option.

In Tacos

Use the slaw as a filling for soft tacos, adding protein like shrimp or tofu for extra flavor.
Top with avocado slices for creaminess and added nutrition.

On Rice Bowls

Add the slaw on top of rice bowls, along with your choice of protein for a complete meal.
Drizzle extra dressing on top for enhanced flavor.

As a Salad Base

Serve the slaw as a base salad topped with roasted vegetables or chickpeas.
Add sliced almonds for an extra crunch.

How to Perfect Asian Slaw with Peanut Sesame Ginger Dressing

To ensure your Asian Slaw with Peanut Sesame Ginger Dressing turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables will give your slaw the best texture and flavor.
Adjust the dressing: Feel free to tweak the dressing ingredients to suit your taste; add more honey for sweetness or more vinegar for tanginess.
Let it chill: Refrigerate the slaw for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
Add proteins: Incorporate grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu to make the dish more filling and nutritious.
Garnish creatively: Use chopped herbs or additional nuts to enhance presentation and flavor.
Experiment with textures: Mix in crispy wontons or chow mein noodles just before serving for added crunch.

Best Side Dishes for Asian Slaw with Peanut Sesame Ginger Dressing

Asian Slaw pairs wonderfully with many dishes. Here are some fantastic side options that complement its flavors beautifully.

Grilled Teriyaki Chicken: Tender chicken marinated in sweet teriyaki sauce goes perfectly with the crunch of the slaw.
Sesame Noodles: Cold sesame noodles offer a delightful contrast in temperature and texture while maintaining an Asian theme.
Edamame Hummus: This creamy dip provides protein and pairs well with fresh veggies or pita chips alongside your slaw.
Coconut Rice: The subtle sweetness of coconut rice balances the tangy flavors of the slaw beautifully.
Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup offers comforting flavors that complement the freshness of the slaw.
Grilled Shrimp Skewers: Seasoned shrimp adds protein and enhances the overall dish’s flavor profile while keeping it light.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Asian Slaw with Peanut Sesame Ginger Dressing can be simple, but some common mistakes can affect the dish’s flavor and texture.

Using stale ingredients: Freshness matters. Always use fresh ginger, garlic, and vegetables for the best taste and crunch.
Skipping the dressing: The Peanut Sesame Ginger Dressing brings the slaw to life. Don’t skip it—mix it thoroughly for a well-balanced flavor.
Not adjusting seasoning: Taste your dressing before adding it to the slaw. Adjust soy sauce or honey according to your preference for sweetness or saltiness.
Overdressing the slaw: Add the dressing gradually. Too much can make the slaw soggy. Start with half and adjust as needed.
Forgetting to garnish: Garnishes like peanuts and sesame seeds enhance presentation and flavor. Don’t forget them to elevate your dish!

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container.
Keeps for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Keep dressing separate if possible until serving for maximum freshness.

Freezing Asian Slaw with Peanut Sesame Ginger Dressing

Freezing is not recommended, as it can lead to wilted vegetables upon thawing.
If you must freeze, keep the dressing separate from the slaw ingredients.

Reheating Asian Slaw with Peanut Sesame Ginger Dressing

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Spread slaw on a baking sheet for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl and heat on medium power in 30-second intervals until warm.
Stovetop: Heat in a non-stick skillet over medium heat, stirring gently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Asian Slaw with Peanut Sesame Ginger Dressing?

Asian Slaw with Peanut Sesame Ginger Dressing is a vibrant salad made with cabbage, carrots, edamame, and topped with a rich peanut sesame ginger dressing. It’s both crunchy and flavorful!

Can I customize my Asian Slaw?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other veggies like cucumbers or snap peas. You can also swap out peanuts for almonds or cashews based on your preference.

How can I make this recipe vegan?

To make Asian Slaw with Peanut Sesame Ginger Dressing vegan, simply replace honey with maple syrup or agave nectar for sweetness without animal products.

Is this an easy dish for meal prep?

Yes! This slaw is perfect for meal prep as it stays fresh and tasty when stored properly. Just remember to keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat.

Final Thoughts

Asian Slaw with Peanut Sesame Ginger Dressing is not just a salad; it’s a flavorful experience that combines textures and tastes beautifully. Its versatility allows you to customize it according to what you have on hand or your dietary preferences. We encourage you to try this recipe—whether as a side dish at dinner or as a main meal filled with nutrition!