Bright, fresh, and endlessly riffable, Everyday Sesame Slaw is that hero side dish you’ll find yourself craving at picnics, weekday lunches, and dinner parties alike. Packed with crisp cabbage, crunchy carrots, and a lush, nutty sesame dressing, it manages to be both nourishing and totally irresistible. Whether you serve it alongside your favorite grilled mains or top it with protein for a meal-worthy bowl, Everyday Sesame Slaw is destined to become your new go-to for bold crunch and vibrant flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the ingredients for Everyday Sesame Slaw couldn’t be simpler — and each one plays a delicious role. The veggies add stunning color and snap, while the toasted sesame seeds and almonds offer up a toasty depth. A quick shake-up whisked dressing infuses every bite with bright, savory, and slightly sweet notes.
- Green cabbage (4 cups, shredded): The mild, crisp base that brings structure and freshness to the slaw.
- Purple cabbage (2 cups, shredded): Adds a vibrant hue and a slightly peppery edge for visual and flavor excitement.
- Carrots (1 cup, shredded): A hint of sweetness and extra crunch keep things playful and balanced.
- Green onions (4, sliced): For gentle onion zing that lays down a subtle savory backbone.
- Fresh cilantro (¼ cup, chopped): A pop of herby brightness that wakes up every bite.
- Toasted sesame seeds (¼ cup): Nutty aroma and major crunch — don’t skip toasting, it’s a flavor game-changer.
- Sliced almonds (¼ cup, optional): For an extra layer of texture and richness, though the slaw shines without them too.
- Rice vinegar (¼ cup): Brings vivid tang and ties all the flavors together.
- Soy sauce or tamari (2 tbsp): Delivers that savory-salty depth and a little umami magic — tamari if you need a gluten-free swap.
- Sesame oil (2 tbsp): Essential for that toasty, nutty undertone that makes the slaw unforgettable.
- Honey or maple syrup (1 tbsp): Just enough sweetness to round it all out — choose maple for a vegan option.
- Olive oil (1 tbsp): Adds body and a mellow olive flavor that complements the other oils beautifully.
- Fresh ginger (1 tsp, grated): For zingy warmth and complexity in the dressing.
- Garlic (1 clove, minced): A small but mighty flavor booster in the dressing.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): Don’t forget to adjust seasoning to bring all the flavors into perfect harmony.
How to Make Everyday Sesame Slaw
Step 1: Assemble the Veggie Base
In a large salad bowl, toss together the shredded green cabbage, purple cabbage, carrots, green onions, cilantro, toasted sesame seeds, and almonds if you’re using them. Take a moment to admire the colorful medley — it’s already a feast for the eyes! This generous mix is the crunchy, vibrant backdrop that gives Everyday Sesame Slaw its signature bite and beauty.
Step 2: Whisk Together the Dressing
In a small bowl or a lidded jar, combine rice vinegar, soy sauce (or tamari), sesame oil, honey (or maple syrup), olive oil, grated ginger, minced garlic, plus a good pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk or shake vigorously until well combined and the texture is glossy and cohesive. The magic here is in the balance: punchy, savory, slightly tangy, and subtly sweet.
Step 3: Toss the Slaw
Pour the luscious dressing right over your veggie mix. Using salad tongs or impeccably clean hands, toss it all together until every bit is coated in that irresistible sesame-ginger dressing. Make sure the dressing reaches all the nooks and crannies for maximum flavor per forkful.
Step 4: Let It Marinate
Let your Everyday Sesame Slaw sit for at least 10 minutes before serving. This is where the magic happens: the veggies soften just slightly, soaking in the dressing while staying crisp. If you have extra time, chilling it in the fridge makes it even better.
Step 5: Taste and Tweak
Give the slaw a final taste and adjust seasoning with extra salt and pepper if needed. Love a little more zing? A splash of extra rice vinegar or even a squeeze of lime can brighten things up. Serve chilled or at cool room temp, depending on your mood and occasion.
How to Serve Everyday Sesame Slaw
Garnishes
Top Everyday Sesame Slaw with a sprinkle of extra toasted sesame seeds, a handful of sliced green onions, or more fresh cilantro for an added burst of color and aroma. For an even bolder presentation, toss in a dusting of crushed chili flakes or a squeeze of fresh lime just before serving. Little touches like these make each serving feel special.
Side Dishes
This slaw is perfectly at home alongside teriyaki chicken, grilled tofu, seared salmon, or spicy noodles. The crisp and tangy flavors pair beautifully with savory mains or can even balance out something with a little heat. For a lunch spread, tuck it into wraps or pile it atop a grain bowl — Everyday Sesame Slaw is impressively versatile.
Creative Ways to Present
Think outside the (salad) bowl! Try spooning Everyday Sesame Slaw onto sliders, serving it as a colorful topping for rice or noodle bowls, or piling it between layers of a summer sandwich. Mini jars or clear cups make for fun and portable single-servings at picnics or potlucks, so everyone gets a perfect crunchy bite.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Everyday Sesame Slaw keeps wonderfully well in the fridge for up to three days, making it an ideal make-ahead side. Simply transfer any leftovers to an airtight container. The flavors will meld and intensify, although the veggies might soften slightly — still crisp but delightfully tangy!
Freezing
This is one dish that’s best enjoyed fresh. Freezing isn’t recommended for Everyday Sesame Slaw, as the vegetables will lose their crunch and texture upon thawing. If you want to prep ahead, stick to making and storing it in the fridge, or keep the dressing and veggies separate until ready to serve.
Reheating
No reheating needed! Everyday Sesame Slaw is meant to be served chilled or cool from the fridge. Just give it a quick toss to redistribute the dressing before plating. If you’ve added any proteins like chicken or edamame, those can be warmed separately if desired.
FAQs
Can I make Everyday Sesame Slaw vegan?
Absolutely! Simply swap the honey in the dressing for maple syrup or agave, and enjoy a completely vegan-friendly bowl of Everyday Sesame Slaw with all the bold flavor and none of the compromise.
Can I prepare Everyday Sesame Slaw in advance?
Yes — in fact, letting it sit for a while (even overnight!) deepens the flavor. Just be aware that the cabbage will soften slightly over time, so if you prefer maximum crunch, dress it closer to serving.
What proteins go well with Everyday Sesame Slaw?
It’s a fantastic canvas for shredded chicken, grilled shrimp, crispy tofu, or even a scoop of edamame. These add a satisfying boost of protein and turn the slaw into a heartier meal.
Is there a nut-free option?
Definitely. Simply omit the sliced almonds and double down on sesame seeds, or try sunflower seeds for a nut-free crunch. The Everyday Sesame Slaw will still taste fantastic and be safe for those with nut allergies.
How can I make Everyday Sesame Slaw spicier?
If you love a little heat, stir in some sriracha, add a pinch of red pepper flakes, or thinly slice a fresh chili and toss it in with the veggies. The spicy extra layer plays beautifully with the cool, crunchy slaw.
Final Thoughts
There you have it: Everyday Sesame Slaw, a fresh and flavor-packed side you’ll want in your weekly rotation. It’s easy to toss together, keeps well, and brings a joyful pop of color and taste to every table. Give it a try — friends and family will love it just as much as you do!
Print
Everyday Sesame Slaw Recipe
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A refreshing and easy-to-make Everyday Sesame Slaw that combines crunchy cabbage, carrots, and a flavorful sesame dressing. This Asian-inspired slaw is perfect as a side dish or light meal.
Ingredients
For the Slaw:
- 4 cups shredded green cabbage
- 2 cups shredded purple cabbage
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 4 green onions, sliced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/4 cup toasted sesame seeds
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds (optional)
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Slaw: In a large bowl, combine the green cabbage, purple cabbage, carrots, green onions, cilantro, sesame seeds, and almonds (if using).
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, honey, olive oil, ginger, garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Combine: Pour the dressing over the slaw and toss well to coat. Let it sit for at least 10 minutes before serving.
- Serve: Enjoy chilled or at room temperature.
Notes
- This slaw keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Add cooked shredded chicken or edamame for extra protein.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
