How about we beat the heat with a dish that’s as cool as a cucumber? This Chilled Asian Salad is your ticket to a refreshing, crunchy, and utterly delicious meal that’s perfect for those scorching summer days. Packed with vibrant veggies and a tangy dressing, it’s a breeze to whip up and even easier to love.
Why This Recipe Works
- The combination of crisp vegetables and a zesty dressing offers a perfect balance of textures and flavors.
- It’s incredibly versatile, allowing you to swap in whatever veggies you have on hand.
- Prepping the salad ahead of time means the flavors meld beautifully, making it even more delicious.
- It’s a healthy, low-calorie option that doesn’t skimp on taste.
- The salad is a great way to introduce more raw vegetables into your diet in a fun and flavorful way.
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded Napa cabbage
- 1 cup shredded red cabbage
- 1 large carrot, julienned
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 cucumber, seeded and sliced
- 3 green onions, sliced
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1/4 cup chopped mint
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/4 cup roasted peanuts, chopped
Equipment Needed
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
Instructions
Step 1: Prep Your Veggies
Start by washing all your vegetables thoroughly. Shred the Napa and red cabbage, julienne the carrot, thinly slice the red bell pepper and cucumber, and slice the green onions. Chop the cilantro and mint. Having all your veggies prepped and ready to go makes assembling the salad a breeze.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, honey, grated ginger, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes until well combined. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. This dressing is the secret to the salad’s addictive flavor, so don’t skimp on the taste test!
Step 3: Combine Vegetables and Dressing
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cabbages, julienned carrot, sliced bell pepper, cucumber, green onions, cilantro, and mint. Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss gently to coat everything evenly. The key here is to ensure every bite is as flavorful as the last.
Step 4: Chill Before Serving
Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld together and the vegetables to slightly soften, making the salad even more enjoyable.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Just before serving, give the salad a quick toss and sprinkle with chopped roasted peanuts for an added crunch. Serve chilled and enjoy the refreshing burst of flavors with every bite.
Tips and Tricks
For an extra crunch, add some wonton strips or crispy chow mein noodles right before serving. If you’re not a fan of peanuts, try substituting with almonds or cashews for a different nutty flavor. To make the salad more substantial, add some grilled chicken or shrimp. For a sweeter dressing, increase the honey to taste. And remember, the longer the salad chills, the more the flavors develop, so don’t be afraid to make it a few hours ahead.
Recipe Variations
- Swap the Napa cabbage for kale or spinach for a different green base.
- Add some sliced mango or pineapple for a sweet and tangy twist.
- Include some avocado slices for a creamy texture.
- Try using lime juice instead of rice vinegar for a different acidic note.
- For a protein-packed version, add some edamame or tofu.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, making it a few hours ahead allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Just hold off on adding the peanuts until right before serving to keep them crunchy.
Is there a substitute for soy sauce?
Yes, you can use tamari for a gluten-free option or coconut aminos for a soy-free version. Both will give you that umami flavor without the soy.
How long will the salad last in the fridge?
Stored in an airtight container, the salad will keep for up to 2 days. However, the vegetables will start to lose their crunch after the first day, so it’s best enjoyed fresh.
Summary
This Chilled Asian Salad is a refreshing, crunchy, and flavorful dish perfect for hot summer days. With its vibrant vegetables and tangy dressing, it’s a healthy, delicious option that’s easy to customize. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch or a side dish, this salad is sure to impress.