Napa Cabbage Slaw: Love this Crisp, Refreshing Salad
Coleslaw is one of those foods I can’t decide if I love or hate. Somehow, the same name can describe both the best and the worst dishes on your plate.
When it comes to cole slaw, the possibilities are varied: a gloppy mess spilling over from a plastic cup next to your fried fish, a delicate red cabbage-and-apple version alongside a pork sandwich at a fine restaurant, or a classic side dish at a summer BBQ. The common thread? Cabbage. My taste leans toward crisp, refreshing versions—the kind that make you want more with every bite.
Why Napa Cabbage Makes the Best Slaw
The heat of summer is here, and I’m on my annual mission: fill the fridge with large batches of cold salads that make easy, no-cook meals. Napa cabbage slaw is my go-to because the tender, crunchy leaves hold up beautifully to dressing without getting soggy, making it perfect for everything from BBQs to light dinners. Last week, I paired this slaw with Vietnamese spring rolls, and it was a match made in chilled salad heaven.
Easy Tips for Dressing Your Napa Cabbage Slaw
A little tip for those who haven’t used jars to mix dressings: I have found the easiest and best way to mix up dressings for salads and slaws is to measure ingredients straight into a jar, put the lid on and shake it until well combined. You will also have any leftover dressing in an easy-to-store container for your refrigerator.
Don’t hesitate to shake your hips a little while shaking your jar. Mini Whipped has enjoyed many crazy dance shows from me during dinner preparation. It is one of those things that she loves now at age two, but I can already hear her embarrassed, brooding pre-teen voice as boogie our dressing to emulsification, “Moooooommm… puleeeease!”
Make It Your Own
The beauty of napa cabbage slaw is how adaptable it is. Add shredded carrots, thinly sliced bell peppers, or a handful of herbs to customize flavor and color. Make it more tangy with added vinegar or add a little mayo for creaminess. Cole slaw is very versatile!
Napa Cabbage Slaw: A Crisp, Refreshing Salad
Description
Crisp, refreshing napa cabbage slaw perfect for summer meals, BBQs, or light dinners. Easy jar dressing method included!
Ingredients
- 1 small head of napa cabbage shredded or chopped
- 2 large carrots peeled and shredded
- 4 green onions, chopped
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro chopped
- 1/2 cup rice vinegar
- 2 Tablespoons sugar
- 1 Tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 Tablespoon soy sauce or tamari
- Optional add-ins: Thai chili sauce or sriracha for some heat, toasted seasame seeds
Instructions
- Toss cabbage, carrots, onions and cilantro in a bowl.
- Put remaining ingredients in a jar and shake well until incorporated.
- Toss dressing with cabbage mixture.
- Refrigerate 30 minutes before serving if you have time so flavors incorporate.
I love crispy coleslaws too, which is why I never really eat them at restaurants. But LOVE the homemade version. This one looks especially fabulous :)
I am on the love side of slaw, that’s for sure! I used to be pretty picky about it, and I LOVED the slaw from Kentucky fried chicken. Still do, but I’ve branched out from mayo-laden mixes!!
I like your salad. It is very healthy and colorful!
In Greece we have a similar version of this salad, minus the Asian ingredients and with the addition of olive oil and lemon.
Magda
You can also use red pepper seasoned rice vinegar.
I, too, love slaw, but so often am disappointed. And wouldn’t you know, I just wrote about the very topic yesterday: my recipe included apple, lemon, and buttery pecans. I think I would love this here recipe of yours, for sure.