📖 Description
This vibrant Asian cabbage salad is a refreshing, nutrient-dense dish packed with shredded cabbage, crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, carrots, and fresh herbs, all tossed in a bold sesame-ginger dressing. It’s light yet satisfying, making it perfect as a healthy lunch recipe, weight-loss meal prep option, or a flavorful side dish for grilled chicken, salmon, or tofu.
The sweet-savory dressing combines soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger for a restaurant-quality flavor. This salad is naturally vegetarian, can easily be made vegan, and fits into many popular diet plans like low-calorie diets, clean eating, plant-based diets, and heart-healthy meal plans.
🛒 Ingredients
For the Salad:
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4 cups green cabbage, finely shredded
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1 cup red cabbage (optional, for color)
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2 medium cucumbers, thinly sliced
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1 cup cherry tomatoes, diced
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1 cup shredded carrots
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3 green onions, sliced
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¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
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1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
For the Sesame Ginger Dressing:
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3 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce (or tamari)
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2 tablespoons rice vinegar
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1 tablespoon sesame oil
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1 tablespoon honey (or maple syrup for vegan option)
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1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 tablespoon olive oil or avocado oil
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1 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
Wash and finely shred the cabbage. Thinly slice cucumbers and dice tomatoes. Shred carrots and chop cilantro.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey, ginger, garlic, olive oil, and chili flakes. Shake or whisk until well combined.
Step 3: Combine
In a large mixing bowl, add cabbage, cucumbers, tomatoes, carrots, and green onions.
Step 4: Pour & Toss
Pour the dressing evenly over the salad. Toss thoroughly until everything is coated.
Step 5: Garnish & Serve
Sprinkle sesame seeds and fresh cilantro on top. Let the salad sit for 10–15 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
🥑 Nutritional Benefits
This salad is:
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Low in calories
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High in fiber
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Rich in antioxidants
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Good for gut health
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Packed with Vitamin C
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Naturally gluten-free (with tamari)
It’s ideal for healthy meal prep, blood pressure management, and cholesterol-friendly diets.
🔄 Variations
Add Protein for a Complete Meal:
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Grilled chicken breast
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Teriyaki salmon
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Baked tofu
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Shrimp
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Sliced steak
Add Crunch:
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Crushed peanuts
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Slivered almonds
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Crispy wonton strips
Make It Keto:
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Replace honey with monk fruit sweetener
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Use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce
🧊 Storage Tips
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Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
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For meal prep, keep dressing separate until ready to eat.
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Not freezer-friendly due to fresh vegetables.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (High Search Volume Topics)
1. Is cabbage salad good for weight loss?
Yes. Cabbage is low in calories but high in fiber, which helps you feel full longer. This makes it a great addition to a calorie-controlled diet.
2. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely. It actually tastes better after sitting for a few hours because the dressing softens the cabbage and enhances the flavor.
3. What is the best dressing for cabbage salad?
A sesame ginger vinaigrette is one of the most popular and healthy options. It balances sweet, savory, and tangy flavors perfectly.
4. Is this salad keto-friendly?
It can be modified to be keto by replacing honey with a low-carb sweetener and limiting carrots.
5. How do I keep cabbage salad from getting soggy?
Salt the cabbage lightly and let it sit for 10 minutes before mixing. Drain excess water before adding dressing.
6. Can I use red cabbage instead of green?
Yes! Red cabbage adds color, antioxidants, and a slightly peppery flavor.
7. Is sesame oil healthy?
Sesame oil contains heart-healthy fats and antioxidants. It’s beneficial in moderation.
8. What protein pairs best with this salad?
Grilled salmon, teriyaki chicken, or marinated tofu are excellent high-protein options.
9. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Use tamari or certified gluten-free soy sauce to make it gluten-free.
10. How many calories are in this salad?
Approximately 150–200 calories per serving without added protein.
💡 Pro Tips for Best Results
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Slice vegetables thin for better texture.
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Use freshly grated ginger for stronger flavor.
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Toast sesame seeds before garnishing.
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Add dressing gradually to avoid overdressing.
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Chill for 30 minutes before serving for enhanced flavor.
🍽 Serving Ideas
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Serve alongside grilled meats
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Use as a taco topping
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Add to rice bowls
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Serve at BBQ parties
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Pack for healthy office lunches
