This Napa cabbage salad with sesame dressing is a refreshing, crunchy bite that balances nutty, tangy, and savory flavors in every forkful. With crisp cabbage, toasty sesame seeds, and a zingy homemade dressing, it’s an easy and elegant dish to serve on the side or as a light lunch. Love veggie-packed plates? You’ll enjoy our Fennel Orange Salad or Asian-inspired Watermelon Carpaccio. Want to know more about the health benefits of sesame seeds? Healthline has the scoop on why they’re more than just garnish.
🥗 Napa Cabbage Salad with Sesame Dressing
Ingredients (Serves 4-6)
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
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! 🥗💛
