Cabbage and Carrot Slaw with Sesame Dressing is a vibrant, crunchy, and flavor-packed salad that brings together the freshness of shredded cabbage and carrots with a nutty, tangy sesame dressing. This colorful dish is not just beautiful to look at — it’s full of texture, freshness, and depth of flavor.

The sesame dressing, made with soy sauce, rice vinegar, and a hint of honey, gives it an irresistible Asian-inspired twist that transforms a simple slaw into a gourmet delight. This slaw is perfect as a side for grilled meats, Asian-inspired meals, or even as a light, refreshing lunch.

Why I Love This Recipe

I absolutely love this Cabbage and Carrot Slaw because it’s the perfect blend of healthy, crunchy, and satisfying. Unlike heavy mayonnaise-based slaws, this version is light yet incredibly flavorful, thanks to its sesame dressing.

The nuttiness of toasted sesame oil pairs beautifully with the crisp vegetables, creating a slaw that feels refreshing and wholesome.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This slaw is a must-try because it combines simplicity with bold flavor. It’s an easy, no-cook recipe that delivers restaurant-quality results in minutes. The sesame dressing adds richness and umami, making it far more exciting than your average coleslaw.

It’s also incredibly nutritious — packed with fiber, vitamins A and C, and healthy fats from sesame oil. The result is a dish that’s both energizing and guilt-free.

Recipe Details

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Servings: 4–6 servings
• Calories: ~160 kcal per serving
• Course: Salad / Side Dish
• Cuisine: Asian-inspired / Fusion

Ingredients

For the Slaw

• 3 cups shredded green cabbage
• 2 cups shredded red cabbage (optional, for color)
• 2 large carrots, julienned or grated
• 2 green onions, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds
• ¼ cup chopped cilantro (optional)

For the Sesame Dressing

• 3 tablespoons toasted sesame oil
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
• 1 small garlic clove, minced
• 1 teaspoon lime or lemon juice
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Cooking Directions

1. Prepare the vegetables: Shred the cabbage and carrots, and slice the green onions.
2. Make the sesame dressing: Whisk together sesame oil, rice vinegar, soy sauce, honey, ginger, garlic, and lime juice until smooth.
3. Combine ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cabbage, carrots, green onions, and cilantro.
4. Dress the slaw: Pour the sesame dressing over the vegetables and toss well to coat.
5. Garnish: Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top before serving.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

• Shred green and red cabbage finely using a sharp knife, mandoline, or food processor.
• Julienne or grate the carrots, and slice the green onions thinly.
• Place all the vegetables in a large mixing bowl.

Step 2: Make the Sesame Dressing

• In a small bowl, whisk together sesame oil, rice vinegar, soy sauce, honey, ginger, garlic, lime juice, salt, and pepper until fully blended.
• Taste and adjust — you can add more honey for sweetness or more vinegar for tang.

Step 3: Combine Everything

• Pour the sesame dressing over the shredded vegetables.
• Toss gently but thoroughly until all the ingredients are evenly coated.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

• Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top.
• Let the slaw rest for 5–10 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.

How to Serve

This slaw is incredibly versatile! Serve it:

• As a side dish to grilled chicken, fish, tofu, or steak
• Alongside Asian-inspired dishes like dumplings, teriyaki chicken, or rice bowls
• As a topping for tacos, burgers, or sandwiches
• Mixed into cold noodle bowls for a complete meal

For presentation, serve it in a clear glass bowl to showcase its colorful layers, and top it with a few extra sesame seeds and fresh herbs.

Recipe Tips

• Use both green and red cabbage for a vibrant color contrast.
• Toast sesame seeds for a richer, nuttier flavor.
• Let it rest — the slaw tastes even better after sitting for 15–20 minutes.
• Don’t overdress — start with half the dressing, then add more as needed.
• Add crunch — toss in chopped peanuts, almonds, or cashews for texture.

Variations

• Spicy Slaw: Add a teaspoon of sriracha or chili flakes to the dressing.
• Creamy Version: Whisk a spoonful of mayonnaise or Greek yogurt into the dressing.
• Nutty Upgrade: Add chopped roasted peanuts or cashews for crunch.
• Fruit-Infused: Toss in thinly sliced apples, mangoes, or mandarin oranges.
• Protein Boost: Add shredded chicken, tofu, or edamame for a more filling salad.
• Korean Twist: Add a splash of gochujang (Korean chili paste) to the dressing.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Freezing: Not recommended, as cabbage and carrots lose their crisp texture when thawed.
• Meal Prep Tip: Keep the dressing separate and mix with the slaw just before serving to maintain crunch.

Special Equipment Needed

• Sharp chef’s knife or mandoline slicer
• Large mixing bowl
• Small whisk or fork for dressing
• Measuring spoons and cups

FAQ

Q: Can I make this slaw ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can prep the veggies and dressing up to a day ahead. Just combine before serving.

Q: Can I use pre-shredded coleslaw mix?
A: Absolutely! It’s a great shortcut — just make sure it’s fresh and crisp.

Q: What can I substitute for sesame oil?
A: You can use olive oil or avocado oil, but you’ll lose the signature nutty flavor.

Q: Is this recipe vegan?
A: Yes, simply replace honey with maple syrup or agave nectar.

Q: Can I add other vegetables?
A: Definitely! Bell peppers, snap peas, or radishes all work beautifully.

Conclusion

Cabbage and Carrot Slaw with Sesame Dressing is a fresh, colorful, and flavor-packed dish that turns simple ingredients into something truly special. The crisp texture of the vegetables paired with the nutty, tangy dressing makes it a standout side for any meal.

Light, refreshing, and bursting with Asian-inspired flavors, this slaw is proof that healthy eating can be delicious and exciting. Whether for weeknight dinners, picnics, or potlucks, this recipe will always impress — a crunchy, wholesome delight that never fails to satisfy.