Zesty Asian Crunch Slaw
Elevate your lunch or snack game with this Zesty Asian Crunch Slaw! This delightful salad combines the crispness of napa cabbage with the heat of fresh jalapenos and the aromatic flavors of cilantro and green onions. Topped with crunchy ramen noodles and a tangy sesame dressing, this slaw is not only visually appealing but also packed with flavor and texture. Perfect as a side dish or a light main course, it can easily be customized with your favorite vegetables or proteins. Share it at your next gathering to impress friends and family with this vibrant addition to your culinary repertoire!
6
Servings
120
Calories
12
Ingredients
Ingredients
Napa cabbage
1 whole (trimmed and shredded)
Green onions
3 (trimmed and thinly sliced (using both white and green parts))
Cilantro
1/2 cup (chopped)
Jalapenos
3 (seeded and minced)
Oriental-flavor instant ramen noodles
1 (3 ounce) package (noodles removed from soup mix and broken into small bite-sized pieces)
Vegetable oil
1/2 cup (none)
Sesame oil
2 teaspoons (none)
Rice vinegar
1/4 cup (none)
Sugar
1/2 teaspoon (none)
Sesame seeds
1 tablespoon (toasted)
Coarse salt
to taste (none)
Fresh ground black pepper
to taste (none)
Instructions
1
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded napa cabbage, sliced green onions, chopped cilantro, and minced jalapenos, ensuring even distribution.
2
Carefully remove the ramen noodles from the seasoning packet and break them into small, bite-sized pieces. Add the broken noodles to the cabbage mixture.
3
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, sesame oil, rice vinegar, sugar, and the seasoning packet from the ramen noodles until well-blended.
4
Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss well to combine, ensuring all ingredients are coated with the flavorful dressing.
5
Finally, sprinkle the toasted sesame seeds over the top and season with coarse salt and fresh ground black pepper to taste. Toss again gently to mix everything together.
6
Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to an hour to allow the flavors to meld before serving. Enjoy!
Nutrition Information
10g
Fat
8g
Carbs
2g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Zesty Asian Crunch Slaw?
It is a crisp salad featuring napa cabbage, spicy jalapenos, cilantro, and crunchy ramen noodles tossed in a tangy sesame dressing.
What type of cabbage is best for this recipe?
This recipe uses one whole napa cabbage, trimmed and shredded for a light and tender crunch.
Can I substitute napa cabbage with another variety?
Yes, you can use green or red cabbage, though the texture will be slightly firmer than napa cabbage.
Do I need to cook the ramen noodles?
No, the ramen noodles are meant to be broken into bite-sized pieces and added dry to provide the signature crunch.
What flavor of ramen noodles should I buy?
The recipe specifically calls for Oriental-flavor (often labeled as Soy Sauce flavor) instant ramen noodles.
Is Zesty Asian Crunch Slaw vegetarian?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian as it contains only vegetables, noodles, and plant-based oils.
Is this recipe vegan?
Most Oriental-flavor ramen seasoning packets are vegan, but you should check the label to ensure no animal products are present.
Is the slaw gluten-free?
No, because ramen noodles are made from wheat. To make it gluten-free, use a gluten-free noodle alternative.
How many people does this recipe serve?
This recipe yields approximately 6 servings.
What is the calorie count per serving?
Each serving contains approximately 120 calories.
How much fat is in a serving of this slaw?
There are 10 grams of fat per serving, primarily from the vegetable and sesame oils.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can prep the vegetables ahead, but it is best to add the noodles and dressing just before serving to maintain the crunch.
How long can I refrigerate the slaw before serving?
You can refrigerate it for up to an hour to let the flavors meld, but the noodles will eventually soften.
Can I omit the jalapenos if I don't like spice?
Absolutely. You can remove the jalapenos entirely or substitute them with green bell peppers for a milder flavor.
How do I prepare the jalapenos?
The jalapenos should be seeded and minced to distribute the heat evenly throughout the slaw.
What can I use if I don't have rice vinegar?
Apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar can be used as a substitute, though the flavor profile will change slightly.
Can I use olive oil instead of vegetable oil?
Yes, but use a light olive oil so the flavor doesn't overpower the delicate sesame and rice vinegar notes.
What proteins go well with this slaw?
Grilled chicken, shrimp, seared salmon, or crispy tofu are excellent additions to turn this into a full meal.
How do I toast the sesame seeds?
Place them in a dry pan over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly until they are golden brown and fragrant.
What is the purpose of the sugar in the dressing?
The sugar helps balance the acidity of the rice vinegar and the saltiness of the ramen seasoning.
Can I add other vegetables to this slaw?
Yes, shredded carrots, edamame, or sliced radishes would make great additions for extra color and nutrition.
How should I store leftover slaw?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, though it will lose its crispness.
What are the main aromatics in this dish?
The green onions and fresh chopped cilantro provide the primary aromatic base for the salad.
Is this recipe considered healthy?
Yes, it is a vegetable-heavy dish that is relatively low in calories and provides fiber and fresh nutrients.
Can I use a different ramen seasoning?
You can, but the Oriental/Soy Sauce flavor best complements the sesame and ginger-adjacent profiles of the other ingredients.
How do I shred the napa cabbage?
Cut the head in half lengthwise, remove the core, and then slice crosswise into thin ribbons.
Is this dish kid-friendly?
Kids usually love the crunchy noodles; just be sure to remove the spicy jalapenos for younger palates.
What makes the dressing 'tangy'?
The combination of rice vinegar and the savory spices within the ramen seasoning packet creates the tang.
Can I use toasted sesame oil?
Yes, toasted sesame oil is recommended as it provides a much deeper, nuttier aroma than regular sesame oil.
Is this a good side dish for a BBQ?
Yes, its light and refreshing nature makes it a perfect palate cleanser for grilled meats and heavy BBQ sides.