Asian Slaw with Peanut Dressing

Craving a vibrant, flavorful, and incredibly refreshing salad? Look no further than this delightful Asian Slaw with Peanut Dressing! This recipe is a perfect blend of crunchy vegetables, fresh herbs, and a creamy, subtly sweet peanut sauce that will tantalize your taste buds. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch, a healthy side dish, or a show-stopping addition to your next barbecue, this Asian slaw is guaranteed to impress. Its versatility shines through; it pairs beautifully with grilled meats, tofu, or even as a standalone meal. The vibrant colors and textures make it a feast for the eyes, while the satisfying flavors will leave you wanting more. Get ready to embark on a culinary journey to the Far East, all from the comfort of your own kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Asian Slaw with Peanut Dressing Recipe

This Asian slaw with peanut dressing recipe is a game-changer for several reasons. First and foremost, it’s incredibly easy to make. The preparation time is minimal, requiring only simple chopping and mixing. Even culinary novices can master this recipe with ease. Secondly, it’s incredibly versatile. You can easily adjust the ingredients to your liking, adding or subtracting vegetables based on your preferences and what’s in season. Want to add some shredded carrots or bell peppers? Go for it! Feel like incorporating some edamame or chopped water chestnuts? Absolutely! This recipe is your blank canvas for culinary creativity.

Another key reason to love this recipe is its delicious flavor profile. The creamy peanut dressing is the star of the show, offering a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and nutty flavors. The vibrant vegetables provide a delightful crunch and freshness that complements the rich dressing beautifully. It’s a symphony of textures and tastes that will leave you feeling satisfied and refreshed. Finally, this slaw is incredibly healthy. It’s packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber, making it a guilt-free indulgence that nourishes your body. It’s a perfect example of a dish that’s both delicious and nutritious, a winning combination for any health-conscious foodie.

Beyond its ease of preparation, versatility, delightful flavors, and health benefits, this Asian slaw also offers amazing make-ahead convenience. You can prepare the slaw and the dressing separately ahead of time and combine them just before serving. This is perfect for busy weeknights or for meal prepping for the week. The slaw will keep well in the refrigerator for a couple of days, allowing you to enjoy this deliciousness throughout the week with minimal effort. You can even pack it for lunch, making it an ideal option for a healthy and flavorful workday meal. All these factors combined make this Asian slaw with peanut dressing a recipe you’ll come back to again and again.

Why You Should Try This Asian Slaw with Peanut Dressing Recipe

Beyond simply being delicious, this Asian slaw recipe offers numerous compelling reasons to give it a try. If you’re looking to expand your culinary horizons and explore the exciting world of Asian-inspired cuisine, this recipe is a fantastic starting point. It’s a gateway to experiencing the vibrant flavors and textures that characterize this style of cooking, without the need for complex techniques or exotic ingredients. This recipe is a fantastic introduction to the wonderful world of slaws, showing how versatile and flavorful a simple slaw can truly be.

Furthermore, this recipe is perfect for those who are looking for a healthy and satisfying meal option. It’s naturally low in calories and fat, yet high in essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber. The abundance of vegetables makes it a great way to increase your daily intake of fruits and vegetables. It is a perfect choice for weight management and for those looking to incorporate more healthy eating habits into their lifestyle. With its customizable nature, you can cater this recipe to suit any dietary needs or preferences.

Beyond the health aspect, this Asian slaw with peanut dressing is also a great option for entertaining. Its vibrant colors and refreshing flavors make it a visually appealing and delicious addition to any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a potluck, a barbecue, or a casual dinner party, this slaw is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Its ease of preparation allows you to spend more time enjoying your guests rather than slaving away in the kitchen. It’s also easily transportable, making it a perfect dish to bring to a picnic or an outdoor gathering.

Ingredients and Utensils for Your Asian Slaw with Peanut Dressing

• Vegetables:
• 1 small red cabbage, thinly sliced (about 4 cups)
• 1 cup shredded green cabbage
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• 1/2 cup thinly sliced red bell pepper
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions
• 1/2 cup bean sprouts (optional)
• Peanut Dressing:
• 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter (smooth or crunchy)
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (for vegan option)
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon water (or more, for desired consistency)
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Optional additions:
• Toasted sesame seeds
• Chopped peanuts
• Lime wedges

Utensils:

• Large bowl for combining the slaw
• Medium bowl for whisking the dressing
• Mandoline slicer (optional, for even cabbage slices)
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Serving bowl

Detailed Recipe Steps for your Asian Slaw with Peanut Dressing

Step 1: Prepare the vegetables. Wash and thoroughly dry all vegetables. Using a mandoline slicer or sharp knife, thinly slice the red cabbage. Shred the green cabbage and carrots. Thinly slice the red bell pepper. Finely chop the cilantro and green onions. If using, prepare the bean sprouts.

Step 2: Make the peanut dressing. In a medium bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, rice vinegar, soy sauce (or tamari), honey (or maple syrup), sesame oil, water, grated ginger, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes (if using) until smooth and creamy. Add more water if needed to reach your desired consistency.

Step 3: Combine the slaw and dressing. In a large bowl, combine the prepared vegetables. Pour the peanut dressing over the vegetables and toss gently to coat evenly. Avoid overmixing, as this can bruise the vegetables and make the slaw soggy.

Step 4: Chill and serve. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This step is crucial for optimal taste. Before serving, give the slaw another gentle toss. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds, chopped peanuts, and lime wedges, if desired. Serve chilled and enjoy!

Pro Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, lightly toast the sesame seeds in a dry pan before adding them as a garnish. This enhances their nutty aroma and flavor.

Pro Tip: To prevent the slaw from becoming watery, make sure your vegetables are thoroughly dried before adding the dressing. Also, avoid overmixing the slaw, as this can release excess moisture.

Tips and Variations for Your Asian Slaw with Peanut Dressing

Ingredient Alternatives: Feel free to experiment with different vegetables. Shredded Napa cabbage, bok choy, or even broccoli florets can be delicious additions. If you’re not a fan of cilantro, substitute it with fresh mint or parsley. For a spicier kick, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of sriracha to the dressing.

Dietary Adaptations: To make this slaw vegan, simply use maple syrup instead of honey. For a gluten-free version, use tamari instead of soy sauce. To make it nut-free, replace the peanut butter with sunflower seed butter or tahini. Remember to always check all ingredient labels to confirm they meet your dietary needs.

Avoiding Common Mistakes: Avoid overdressing the slaw, which can lead to a soggy texture. Adding the dressing just before serving or chilling allows the vegetables to retain their crunch. Ensure your vegetables are properly dried before adding the dressing; excess moisture will dilute the flavors and create a watery slaw.

Nutritional Values and Benefits of Asian Slaw with Peanut Dressing

This Asian slaw is a nutritional powerhouse! The precise nutritional values will vary slightly depending on the exact ingredients and quantities used, but generally, this recipe offers a good source of vitamins, minerals, and fiber. The cabbage provides vitamins C and K, while the carrots are rich in beta-carotene, which the body converts to vitamin A. The peanut butter contributes healthy fats and protein, while the ginger and garlic boast anti-inflammatory properties. This slaw is also naturally low in calories and fat, making it a perfect choice for a healthy and satisfying meal or side dish.

Approximate Nutritional Information (per serving, based on a 4-serving recipe): (Note: This is an estimate and can vary. For precise values, use a nutritional calculator with your specific ingredients and quantities.)

• Calories: Approximately 250-300
• Protein: Approximately 8-10g
• Fat: Approximately 15-20g
• Carbohydrates: Approximately 25-30g
• Fiber: Approximately 5-7g

FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions about Asian Slaw with Peanut Dressing

Q: Can I make this slaw ahead of time? A: Absolutely! Prepare the slaw and dressing separately ahead of time. Combine them just before serving to prevent the slaw from becoming soggy. Store the slaw and dressing separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Q: Can I freeze this slaw? A: Freezing this slaw is not recommended. Freezing can alter the texture of the vegetables, making them mushy upon thawing.

Q: What can I serve this slaw with? A: This versatile slaw pairs well with a wide range of dishes. It’s delicious as a side dish with grilled meats, fish, tofu, or chicken. It also makes a great addition to tacos, rice bowls, or as a topping for noodles.

Q: My peanut dressing is too thick. What should I do? A: If your peanut dressing is too thick, simply add more water, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. Whisk well after each addition.

Q: My peanut dressing is too thin. What should I do? A: If your peanut dressing is too thin, you can add a bit more peanut butter or even a teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with a little cold water to thicken it. Stir well and allow it to sit for a few minutes to thicken.

Conclusion: Your Delicious Journey with Asian Slaw with Peanut Dressing

This Asian Slaw with Peanut Dressing recipe is a culinary adventure waiting to happen! It’s a simple yet incredibly flavorful and satisfying dish that is perfect for any occasion. Its versatility, ease of preparation, and health benefits make it a must-try recipe for both seasoned cooks and culinary beginners. We hope you enjoyed this comprehensive guide and that you’ll give this delicious recipe a try. Remember to share your culinary creations with us by leaving a comment below and letting us know how it turned out!

Don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family, and if you’re looking for more delicious and healthy recipes, check out our collection of amazing salads on OviaRecipes. Happy cooking!

For more information on the ingredients used in this recipe, you might find the Wikipedia entry on Cabbage informative.

Asian Slaw with Peanut Dressing

A vibrant and flavorful slaw with a creamy peanut dressing, perfect as a side dish or light meal. Quick and easy to make!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 25 minutes mins

Course Side Dish

Cuisine Asian, Thai

Servings 4 servings

Calories 250 kcal

Equipment

• Large bowl
• Whisk
• Small Bowl

Ingredients

  

Slaw Ingredients

• 8 cups Shredded Cabbage
• 1 cup Shredded Carrots
• 1 Red Bell Pepper thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup Green Onions thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup Chopped Peanuts for garnish

Peanut Dressing Ingredients

• 1/2 cup Peanut Butter
• 2 tablespoons Soy Sauce
• 2 tablespoons Rice Vinegar
• 1 tablespoon Honey or Maple Syrup
• 1 teaspoon Sesame Oil
• 2-3 tablespoons Water to thin dressing

Instructions

 

Instructions

• In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, carrots, red bell pepper, and green onions.
• In a small bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), sesame oil, and water until smooth and creamy. Add more water if needed to reach desired consistency.
• Pour the peanut dressing over the slaw and toss to coat evenly.
• Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. You may want to add more soy sauce, honey, or rice vinegar to your preference.
• Gently toss in the chopped peanuts.
• Serve immediately or chill for later. The flavors will meld beautifully if chilled for at least 30 minutes.

Notes

For a spicier slaw, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing. You can also substitute other vegetables like shredded purple cabbage or broccoli slaw.

Keyword delicious, easy, peanut, quick, slaw, vegan