Asian Slaw with Peanut Dressing

Asian Slaw with Peanut Dressing is a vibrant, crunchy, and refreshing salad that bursts with flavor and texture. Crisp shredded cabbage, colorful bell peppers, carrots, and fresh herbs are tossed with a rich, creamy peanut dressing that’s tangy, slightly sweet, and packed with umami. This slaw is perfect as a side dish, light lunch, or a topping for rice bowls, tacos, or grilled proteins.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its balance of textures and flavors. The crunchy vegetables pair beautifully with the creamy peanut dressing, while lime juice and soy sauce add tang and depth. Fresh herbs like cilantro and mint brighten the salad, making it light, refreshing, and utterly addictive.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s healthy, colorful, and bursting with flavor. It’s one of those dishes that’s simple to make yet impressive in presentation.

The combination of creamy peanut dressing and crisp vegetables creates a satisfying mouthfeel, and the mix of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors keeps you coming back for more. It’s perfect for meal prep, entertaining, or adding a refreshing touch to any meal.

Why This is a Must-Try Dish

• Flavor-packed: Creamy, nutty, tangy, and slightly sweet all in one.
• Crunchy & fresh: Crisp vegetables provide a satisfying texture.
• Versatile: Works as a side, salad, or topping for rice and protein bowls.
• Healthy: Loaded with fresh vegetables and protein-rich peanut dressing.
• Easy & quick: Ready in under 20 minutes.

Preparation & Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 0 minutes (no cooking required)
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories: ~280 kcal per serving

Cuisine & Course

• Cuisine: Asian-inspired / Fusion
• Course: Salad / Side Dish / Appetizer

Ingredients

For the Slaw:

• 3 cups shredded green cabbage
• 1 cup shredded purple cabbage
• 1 large carrot, julienned or shredded
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 2 green onions, chopped
• ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• ¼ cup fresh mint, chopped
• ¼ cup roasted peanuts, roughly chopped

For the Peanut Dressing:

• 3 tbsp creamy peanut butter
• 2 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tbsp lime juice
• 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 2–3 tbsp warm water (to thin as needed)
• ½ tsp grated fresh ginger (optional)
• 1 garlic clove, minced

Simple Cooking Directions

1. Combine shredded cabbage, carrot, bell pepper, green onions, and herbs in a large bowl.
2. Whisk together peanut dressing ingredients until smooth, adding water gradually to reach desired consistency.
3. Pour dressing over vegetables and toss to coat evenly.
4. Sprinkle with chopped peanuts and serve immediately.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1 – Prep Vegetables

• Shred or thinly slice cabbage, carrot, and bell pepper.
• Chop green onions, cilantro, and mint.

Step 2 – Make Peanut Dressing

• In a small bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, lime juice, honey, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger.
• Gradually add warm water to reach a pourable consistency.

Step 3 – Combine Slaw and Dressing

• Place all vegetables and herbs in a large mixing bowl.
• Pour dressing over the slaw and toss gently to coat evenly.

Step 4 – Garnish

• Sprinkle with chopped roasted peanuts for added crunch.

Step 5 – Serve

• Serve immediately as a refreshing side or topping.

How to Serve

• Serve as a side salad with grilled chicken, shrimp, tofu, or fish.
• Use as a filling for wraps, tacos, or rice bowls.
• Pair with spring rolls, satay, or noodle dishes for a full Asian-inspired meal.

Recipe Tips

• Prep vegetables in advance and keep them dry for maximum crunch.
• Adjust dressing to taste—more lime for tang, more honey for sweetness, or more soy for saltiness.
• Use a peanut butter with no added sugar for a healthier option.
• Toast peanuts lightly for extra flavor.
• Toss the salad just before serving to keep it fresh and crisp.

Variations

• Protein Boost: Add cooked shredded chicken, shrimp, or tofu to make it a main dish.
• Noodle Slaw: Toss in cooked rice noodles for a more filling version.
• Spicy Kick: Add sriracha, chili flakes, or fresh chopped chilies to the dressing.
• Nut-Free Version: Substitute peanut butter with sunflower seed butter and omit peanuts.
• Additional Veggies: Add thinly sliced cucumber, radishes, or snap peas for more crunch.

Freezing & Storage

• Refrigeration: Store the slaw and dressing separately in airtight containers for up to 2 days.
• Freezing: Not recommended for fresh vegetables, as they lose crunch when thawed.
• Reheating: Serve chilled or at room temperature; do not microwave.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large mixing bowl
• Small whisk or fork for dressing
• Knife and cutting board
• Vegetable peeler or mandoline (optional, for shredding)

FAQ

Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, prep vegetables ahead and store the dressing separately. Toss just before serving.

Q: Can I use creamy almond butter instead of peanut butter?
Yes, almond butter works well as a nutty alternative.

Q: Can I make it vegan?
Yes, use maple syrup instead of honey and tamari instead of soy sauce if needed.

Q: Can I add other herbs?
Yes, basil or Thai basil adds an aromatic twist.

Q: Can this slaw be served warm?
It’s best served cold or at room temperature to maintain crunch and freshness.

Conclusion

Asian Slaw with Peanut Dressing is a crunchy, flavorful, and versatile salad that’s perfect for any occasion. Sweet, tangy, and nutty dressing coats crisp vegetables and fresh herbs, creating a refreshing, satisfying dish. Ideal as a side, main, or topping for rice bowls and tacos, this salad proves that healthy food can be quick, delicious, and crowd-pleasing.