Looking for the most versatile side dish to go with your Asian-themed menu? Try this Asian Coleslaw with bright, crunchy, colorful vegetables! Dressed in a nutty sesame oil dressing, this slaw is packed with flavors and makes a much healthier and lighter alternative to the mayo-laden types. It’s such a fantastic way to eat your colors. Not only does it look refreshing and appetizing, but it is also so easy to put together for a weeknight family meal or a big potluck party.
Ingredients for Asian Coleslaw
For the coleslaw:
Vegetables (carrot, red cabbage, and green cabbage) A mix of cilantro/coriander and green onions
For the dressing:
Apple cider vinegar Sugar — Sugar helps to mellow out the acidity of the vinegar, so don’t skimp on it. You can cut down slightly, but taste it first to see if it achieves the balance you desire. Alternatively, you can use maple syrup or honey. Toasted sesame oil Roasted sesame seeds Salt & pepper
Substitutions & Variations
The great thing about this coleslaw recipe is its flexibility. If you don’t like a certain ingredient or don’t have it on hand, feel free to switch it out. Cilantro leaves are polarizing; people either love or hate them. However, I feel the green herb plays a big role in the coleslaw. Its fresh, citrus-like flavor adds so much more zing to the dish. For those who don’t mind the taste, you won’t want to miss it. Here are a few other vegetables that could go well with the coleslaw. Anything fresh will make the slaw even better!
Green color: edamame, mint, shredded broccoli stem/stalk, shredded zucchini, snap peas Red color: red bell pepper, red onion, apples Yellow color: yellow bell pepper, sweet corn kernels, peanuts
How to Make Asian Coleslaw
Versatile Sesame Dressing
You’ll love the light yet zingy dressing with the coleslaw, but don’t stop there. Try it with other green salads or noodle salads! There’s no chopping garlic or grating ginger involved, so it’s super easy. You’ll want to make it over and over again.
The Perfect Side Dish & Potluck Menus
From sandwiches, burgers, and tacos to grilled meats, this is an excellent coleslaw to accompany any Asian-themed meal. Thanks to its crunchy texture and refreshing taste, you can also serve it alongside deep-fried foods to balance out the richness and grease. Need some inspiration? How about pairing it with some all-star BBQ or summertime dishes such as:
Instant Pot Asian Pulled Pork (so yummy with tacos!) Traeger Baby Back Ribs inspired by Franklin BBQ Crispy Chicken Sandwich Instant Pot Sticky Asian Ribs Crispy Salmon Lobster Roll Miso Salmon Teriyaki Burger
It is also one solid, dependable side dish you can bring to any potluck party! Be ready to give out the recipe when asked. Editor’s Note: The post was originally published on February 23, 2011. The images are updated with new step-by-step pictures in October 2017. The post has been updated in June 2020.
