This Napa Cabbage Salad with Sesame Dressing is crunchy, refreshing, and packed with flavor! The nutty, slightly sweet sesame dressing pairs perfectly with the tender Napa cabbage, making it an easy and delicious side dish. 🥬✨
🥗 Napa Cabbage Salad with Sesame Dressing
Ingredients (Serves 4-6)
For the salad:
- 4 cups Napa cabbage (thinly sliced)
- 1 small carrot (julienned or shredded)
- 2 green onions (thinly sliced)
- 1/4 cup cilantro (chopped, optional)
- 1/4 cup toasted almonds or cashews (chopped)
- 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds
For the sesame dressing:
- 2 tbsp toasted sesame oil
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tbsp maple syrup or honey
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 clove garlic (minced)
- 1/2 tsp grated ginger
Instructions
1️⃣ Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the sesame oil, rice vinegar, soy sauce, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, garlic, and ginger. Set aside.
2️⃣ Prepare the salad: In a large bowl, combine the Napa cabbage, carrot, green onions, and cilantro.
3️⃣ Toss everything together: Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss well to coat.
4️⃣ Add crunch: Sprinkle with toasted almonds (or cashews) and sesame seeds.
5️⃣ Serve immediately for the best crunch or let it sit for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
✨ Tips & Variations:
✔️ Want protein? Add tofu, edamame, or shredded chicken (for non-vegan).
✔️ Make it spicy! Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha.
✔️ Meal prep-friendly: Keeps well in the fridge for up to 24 hours (just add nuts/seeds before serving for crunch).
This salad is light, flavorful, and totally addictive! 🥗💛
