Name: Napa Cabbage Salad with Sesame Dressing
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 4 scallions; 1 small or ½ large napa cabbage (~24 oz / 700g before slicing); 8 ounces (225g) Persian or English cucumber; 2 medium carrots (or 5 oz / 140g pre-shredded carrots); 1 small red bell pepper (optional); Sea salt to taste; 1 cup (140g) roasted, salted peanuts (or cashews), roughly chopped; 2 tablespoons (16g) white sesame seeds; ½ teaspoon Sichuan chile flakes (or red pepper flakes); 2 teaspoons freshly grated ginger; 3 garlic cloves, grated or minced; 3 tablespoons neutral-flavored oil; 1 tablespoon Chinese light soy sauce; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; 1 tablespoon agave nectar or organic cane sugar; 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil (optional, for extra richness); 6 to 12 ounces (170 to 340g) shelled edamame (optional)

Why Make This Recipe

Napa Cabbage Salad with Sesame Dressing is a refreshing dish that combines crisp vegetables, nutty flavors, and a delightful dressing. This salad is easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. It can be served as a side or a light meal and is full of nutrients and textures. Plus, it’s a great way to enjoy the flavors of fresh produce!

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How to Make Napa Cabbage Salad with Sesame Dressing

Ingredients:

4 scallions
1 small or ½ large napa cabbage (~24 oz / 700g before slicing)
8 ounces (225g) Persian or English cucumber
2 medium carrots (or 5 oz / 140g pre-shredded carrots)
1 small red bell pepper (optional)
Sea salt to taste
1 cup (140g) roasted, salted peanuts (or cashews), roughly chopped
2 tablespoons (16g) white sesame seeds
½ teaspoon Sichuan chile flakes (or red pepper flakes)
2 teaspoons freshly grated ginger
3 garlic cloves, grated or minced
3 tablespoons neutral-flavored oil
1 tablespoon Chinese light soy sauce
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 tablespoon agave nectar or organic cane sugar
1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil (optional, for extra richness)
6 to 12 ounces (170 to 340g) shelled edamame (optional)

Directions:

Trim the roots and any bruised tops off the scallions. Slice the scallions thinly on a bias. Add to a bowl of ice water and soak for about 10 minutes, then drain and pat dry.
Remove any wilted outer leaves from the napa cabbage, slice it in half lengthwise, then thinly slice crosswise, discarding any tough bottom cores. Rinse and dry the sliced cabbage.
For the cucumbers, julienne or slice them into half moons. Grate the carrots or use a julienne peeler. Slice the bell pepper thinly if using. In a serving bowl, combine the cabbage, cucumber, carrots, red pepper (if using), and drained scallions. Toss to mix.
If using edamame, cook according to package instructions, drain and pat dry, then toss with salt.
For the Sesame-Garlic Dressing, layer sesame seeds, chile flakes, ginger, and garlic in a small bowl. Heat neutral oil in a saucepan until shimmering and pour it over the garlic-ginger mixture. Stir in soy sauce, vinegar, agave, and sesame oil (if using).
Sprinkle salt into the salad, toss, add edamame (if using), then pour the dressing over the salad and toss until well coated. Fold in the chopped peanuts and taste to adjust seasonings.

How to Serve Napa Cabbage Salad with Sesame Dressing

This salad can be served immediately after tossing with the dressing. It makes a great side dish for grilled meats or can be enjoyed as a light lunch by itself. You can also garnish it with extra sesame seeds or chopped nuts for added crunch.

How to Store Napa Cabbage Salad with Sesame Dressing

If you have leftovers, store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the dressing separate until ready to serve to maintain the freshness of the vegetables.

Tips to Make Napa Cabbage Salad with Sesame Dressing

Use fresh ingredients for the best taste.
Adjust the amount of sesame oil to your liking for richer flavor.
For added protein, consider including chicken or tofu.

Variation

You can add other vegetables like radishes, snap peas, or avocado for extra color and flavor. Adjust the dressing ingredients to suit your taste preferences.

FAQs

1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep the vegetables a few hours in advance but add the dressing just before serving to keep everything fresh and crunchy.

2. Is this salad vegan?
Yes, all ingredients can be vegan, especially if you use agave nectar instead of cane sugar.

3. What can I substitute for peanuts?
You can use cashews, almonds, or sunflower seeds if you prefer or have nut allergies.