When it comes to creating a salad that is both refreshing and packed with bold flavors, this Asian Cabbage Salad is a true star. With its crisp texture, vibrant colors, and an irresistible mix of tangy, spicy, and savory flavors, it’s the perfect side dish or light meal for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Asian Cabbage Salad
This salad is more than just a side dish – it’s an experience. The crunchy Chinese cabbage and cucumber provide the perfect base, while roasted peanuts add an earthy texture. The bold kick of chilies, paired with the savory richness of soy sauce and the aromatic sesame oil, creates a perfectly balanced dish. And the best part? It’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it a go-to recipe for busy days or quick gatherings.
Key Highlights:
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 20 minutes.
- Budget-Friendly: Simple ingredients, big flavor.
- Diet-Friendly: 100% vegan and gluten-free.
- Versatile: Serve as a side dish, light lunch, or even a potluck favorite.
How to Make Asian Cabbage Salad (Quick Overview)
- Prep the Cabbage: Soak shredded cabbage in vinegar, then drain and dry.
- Mix Ingredients: Combine cabbage, cucumber, chilies, garlic, and peanuts in a bowl.
- Add Seasoning: Toss with chili flakes, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, sugar, and salt.
- Infuse Flavor: Pour hot oil over the chili flakes to release their aroma.
- Toss and Serve: Mix everything well, garnish with cilantro, and serve immediately or chill briefly.
Tips for the Best Asian Cabbage Salad
- Choose Fresh Ingredients: The fresher the cabbage and cucumber, the crunchier your salad will be.
- Adjust Spice Levels: If you prefer a milder salad, reduce the amount of chili flakes and fresh chilies.
- Let it Rest: While it’s delicious fresh, allowing the salad to chill for 10–15 minutes helps the flavors meld beautifully.
- Customize: Add shredded carrots, bell peppers, or even tofu for extra texture and protein.
Pairing Suggestions
This salad pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes:
- Grilled Tofu Skewers: A smoky, savory protein addition.
- Steamed Jasmine Rice: For a heartier meal.
- Spring Rolls: The perfect appetizer companion.
Final Thoughts
This Asian Cabbage Salad isn’t just a recipe – it’s a celebration of fresh ingredients and bold flavors. Whether you’re preparing it for a casual lunch, a family dinner, or a festive gathering, it’s guaranteed to impress. Plus, it’s so simple and quick that it might just become your new favorite salad recipe.
So, gather your ingredients, toss them together, and savor every crunchy, tangy bite. Don’t forget to share your creation on social media and tag us – we’d love to see your masterpiece!
For the full recipe with exact measurements and step-by-step details, check out the recipe card below. Happy cooking! 🥗✨
Asian Cabbage Salad
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Small saucepan
- Knife and Cutting Board
- Tongs or clean hands for mixing
Ingredients
- 10.5 oz Chinese cabbage shredded
- 1 Medium Cucumber julienned
- ¼ cup Roasted peanuts
- 2-3 pieces Chilies sliced
- 3 cloves Garlic minced
- 1 tbsp Chili flakes
- 2 tsp Sugar
- 1 tsp Salt adjust to taste
- 1 tbsp Dark soy sauce
- 1 tbsp Rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp Sesame oil
- 2 tbsp Cooking oil boiled
- ¼ cup White vinegar
- Fresh cilantro chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Soak the Cabbage:
- Soak the shredded cabbage in white vinegar for 10 minutes.
- Drain and let it dry completely.
Combine Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the dried cabbage, cucumber, chilies, garlic, and peanuts.
Season:
- Add chili flakes, sugar, salt, dark soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Mix thoroughly.
Add Hot Oil:
- Heat 2 tablespoons of cooking oil until boiling.
- Carefully pour the hot oil over the chili flakes in the bowl to release the fragrance.
Mix and Garnish:
- Toss everything together until evenly coated.
- Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro.
Serve:
- Serve immediately or refrigerate for 10–15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.