Napa Cabbage Slaw

This refreshing Napa Cabbage Slaw is a light, crunchy, and vibrant side dish that pairs beautifully with grilled meats, sandwiches, or fish tacos. The tender and mild Napa cabbage, combined with a colorful mix of carrots, red bell peppers, and green onions, creates a visually appealing and flavorful salad. Tossed in a tangy sesame-ginger dressing, this slaw adds a delightful balance of sweet, sour, and umami notes to your meal. It’s perfect for summer barbecues or as a crisp accompaniment to Asian-inspired dishes. The addition of toasted sesame seeds provides a nutty crunch, making every bite irresistible.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups Napa cabbage, thinly sliced
• 1 cup carrots, shredded
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 3 green onions, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
• 2 tablespoons sesame seeds, toasted

For the Dressing:

• 3 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Vegetables: In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced Napa cabbage, shredded carrots, bell pepper, green onions, and chopped cilantro. Toss them together until evenly mixed.
2. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, honey, grated ginger, and minced garlic until well combined. If you like a bit of spice, stir in the red pepper flakes.
3. Combine the Slaw and Dressing: Pour the dressing over the slaw mixture and toss until the vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing.
4. Add Crunch: Sprinkle the toasted sesame seeds on top just before serving to add a nutty crunch.
5. Chill and Serve: For the best flavor, let the slaw chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Tips:

• Variations: Add thinly sliced radishes or edamame for an extra pop of color and texture.
• Storage: This slaw keeps well in the refrigerator for up to two days, making it a great make-ahead dish.

Enjoy this light and flavorful Napa Cabbage Slaw as a refreshing side to your favorite meals!