Imagine a bright, sunny afternoon, where you find yourself seeking a quick and vibrant meal that celebrates the crunch of fresh vegetables. That’s when this Sesame Almond Slaw swoops in like a culinary superhero! With its delightful mix of crisp ramen noodles and a zesty dressing, this slaw is more than just a salad; it’s a culinary adventure waiting to happen.
Just picturing the first bite—sweet, savory, and topped with the rich flavors of toasted almonds and sesame oil—makes my taste buds dance. This dish is perfect for those hectic weeknights when fast food tempts you, yet your heart craves something nourishing. Plus, it pairs beautifully with grilled shrimp or salmon, making it an ideal companion for your summer barbecues or a light lunch.
Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply treat yourself, this Sesame Almond Slaw delivers on every level. Let’s dive into this simple yet satisfying recipe and embrace the fresh, delicious flavors it has to offer!
Why is Sesame Almond Slaw a Must-Try?
Quick, vibrant taste: This Sesame Almond Slaw offers a burst of freshness that revitalizes any meal.
Crunch Factor: The combination of crispy ramen noodles and fresh veggies provides a delightful crunch in every bite.
Easy Preparation: With minimal chopping and no cooking, you can whip this up in just minutes.
Versatile Dish: Perfect as a side for barbecues or as a light, standalone lunch, it checks all the boxes for versatility.
Flavor-Rich: The nutty sesame oil and sweetness from the dressing create a flavor profile that’s hard to resist.
Elevate your dinner game and check out how this slaw pairs perfectly with grilled proteins or as a picnic staple!
Sesame Almond Slaw Ingredients
For the Salad
• Ramen Noodles – Provide crunch and structure; any instant ramen brand works, just leave out the seasoning packet.
• Shredded Cabbage – Adds crunch and nutrition; you can substitute with green or Napa cabbage for a similar texture.
• Shredded Romaine – Provides a refreshing crispy texture which is essential for the salad’s structure.
• Green Onion – Adds mild onion flavor and freshness; chopped shallots are a great substitute for a different taste.
• Sliced Almonds – Offer nuttiness and crunch; sunflower seeds are a wonderful nut-free alternative.
• Sesame Seeds – Enhance flavor and presentation; feel free to use poppy seeds or omit them if needed.
For the Dressing
• Rice Vinegar – Provides tanginess for the dressing; apple cider vinegar is a suitable substitute.
• Sugar – Balances the tartness of the vinegar; honey or agave can be used for a natural sweetener.
• Canola Oil – Acts as a rich base for the dressing; avocado oil can be swapped in for a different flavor.
• Water – Thins the dressing for easier mixing; vegetable broth can enhance the flavor instead.
• Sesame Oil – Adds a depth of flavor with its nutty taste; olive oil can replace it but will change the overall flavor.
• Reduced-Sodium Soy Sauce – Contributes umami flavor; tamari is a great gluten-free option.
• Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust to taste to customize flavor to your liking.
This delightful Sesame Almond Slaw is a perfect addition to your meal, bursting with flavors and crunch that will make your taste buds rejoice!
How to Make Sesame Almond Slaw
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Noodle Prep: Begin by splitting ramen noodles in half, reserving one half for future use. Break apart the remaining noodles and lovingly place them in a mixing bowl for a flavorful crunch.
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Mix Vegetables: Add the vibrant shredded cabbage, refreshing romaine, sliced green onions, toasted almonds, and sesame seeds to the bowl with noodles. The colorful combination is sure to brighten your day!
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Make Dressing: In a jar with a tight-fitting lid, add rice vinegar, sugar, canola oil, water, sesame oil, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Secure the lid tightly and shake well until the dressing is well emulsified and ready to bring everything together.
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Combine Everything: Pour the homemade dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently to ensure every ingredient is evenly coated. Watch as the colors meld into a scrumptious ensemble!
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Serve Immediately: Enjoy your Sesame Almond Slaw right away for the best texture, or chill briefly before serving to let those flavors meld.
Optional: Top with extra almonds and sesame seeds for an added crunch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Sesame Almond Slaw?
Imagine enjoying a refreshing, colorful slaw alongside vibrant dishes that elevate your dining experience and leave your taste buds singing.
- Grilled Shrimp: The smoky, charred flavor complements the slaw’s crunch beautifully, making every bite a delightful blend of seafood and fresh veggies.
- Teriyaki Chicken: Sweet and savory, the bold flavors of teriyaki sauce harmonizes perfectly with the nutty undertones of the sesame almond slaw.
- Asian-Inspired Grilled Salmon: With rich flavors and tender texture, grilled salmon pairs wonderfully with the crunchy salad to create a well-rounded meal.
- Quinoa Bowl: Serve alongside a hearty quinoa bowl full of roasted veggies for a nutritious touch that balances freshness and warmth.
- Crispy Tofu: Add some protein with crispy tofu for a delightful vegetarian option that soaks up the slaw’s vibrant dressing, enriching each bite.
- Sushi Rolls: A refreshing twist, crispy slaw as a side elevates sushi, providing a crunchy contrast to the delicate flavors of the rolls.
- Chilled Sake: This smooth Japanese rice wine complements the slaw’s flavors while enhancing the whole meal with a touch of elegance.
- Mango Sorbet: End your meal on a sweet note; the fruity notes of mango sorbet refresh the palate and soften the crunch.
- Fresh Lemonade: A zesty drink that’s perfectly refreshing, lemonade acts as a thirst-quencher that brightens the flavors in your meal.
- Coconut Rice Pudding: For a delightful dessert, the creamy texture and subtle sweetness pair seamlessly with the slaw’s crunch.
Storage Tips for Sesame Almond Slaw
Fridge: Store any leftover Sesame Almond Slaw in an airtight container, where it will stay fresh for up to 1 day. Enjoy it cold for a quick snack or light meal!
Room Temperature: Avoid leaving the slaw at room temperature for more than 2 hours, as it contains perishable ingredients that can spoil.
Freezer: For best results, do not freeze the sesame almond slaw, as the vegetables will become mushy upon thawing, compromising its delightful crunch.
Reheating: If you’ve added grilled proteins, warm them gently in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving, but avoid reheating the slaw itself to maintain its freshness.
Make Ahead Options
These Sesame Almond Slaw preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can chop the vegetables—shredded cabbage, romaine, and green onions—up to 3 days in advance, storing them in airtight containers in the refrigerator to retain their crispness. Additionally, you can pre-make the dressing by combining all the dressing ingredients in a jar and refrigerating it for up to 1 week. When you’re ready to serve, simply toss the prepped veggies and noodles with the dressing, and add the toasted almonds and sesame seeds right before serving to keep the crunch intact. This way, you can whip up your Sesame Almond Slaw effortlessly while enjoying fresh, delicious flavors!
Sesame Almond Slaw Variations
Explore these delightful twists on your Sesame Almond Slaw, inviting a world of flavors and textures to your table!
- Nut-Free: Swap sliced almonds for sunflower seeds to keep the slaw crunchy without nuts.
- Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of sriracha or chili garlic sauce to the dressing for an exciting heat.
- Creamy Option: Mix in a dollop of Greek yogurt or mayonnaise in the dressing for a creamy texture.
- Color Boost: Toss in shredded carrots or sliced bell peppers for every vibrant addition that zings with freshness!
- Herb Infusion: Include fresh cilantro or mint to brighten the flavor profile and add a fragrant twist.
- Protein-Packed: Top the slaw with shredded rotisserie chicken or grilled tofu for a satisfying and wholesome meal.
- Tropical Twist: Incorporate diced mango or pineapple to add a sweet, fruity flavor that complements the slaw beautifully.
- Citrus Zest: Brighten up your dressing with a splash of fresh lime or lemon juice for a zesty finish!
Each alteration opens new culinary doors, turning your slaw into an extraordinary dish tailored to your taste!
Expert Tips for Sesame Almond Slaw
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Dressing Tip: Shake the dressing vigorously before adding it to the salad for an even, delicious coating that enhances the flavors perfectly.
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Freshness Matters: Serve the slaw immediately to enjoy its delightful crunch. If left to sit, the ramen noodles may soften and lose their texture.
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Customization: Feel free to enhance your sesame almond slaw by adding grilled shrimp or chicken, transforming it into a heartier meal packed with protein.
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Texture Variety: For an exciting crunch, consider substituting sliced almonds with chopped peanuts or cashews; they add a unique flavor twist.
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Color Boost: Don’t hesitate to add julienned carrots or bell peppers for a colorful and nutritious upgrade to your slaw.
Sesame Almond Slaw Recipe FAQs
How do I select the right cabbage for my Sesame Almond Slaw?
Absolutely! When selecting cabbage, look for heads that are firm and heavy for their size. Avoid any that have dark spots all over or feel soft. Green cabbage and Napa cabbage are both great substitutes if you can’t find the exact variety, providing a similar crunch and nutritional content.
How should I store leftover Sesame Almond Slaw?
Very! Store any leftover slaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 1 day, but keep in mind that the ramen noodles will lose their crunch over time. For the best experience, enjoy it cold straight from the fridge or at room temperature. Avoid leaving it out for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety.
Can I freeze Sesame Almond Slaw for later use?
No, it’s best not to freeze this slaw. Freezing can cause the vegetables to become mushy when thawed, which would compromise that delightful crunch we all love. If you have extra ingredients, consider preparing the salad fresh each time to get the best texture and flavor!
What if my dressing is too thick, how can I fix it?
Here’s a handy solution! If your dressing ends up too thick, add a tablespoon of water or vegetable broth at a time, shaking well after each addition, until you reach your desired consistency. Remember, the dressing should be pourable to properly coat your salad without being too heavy.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of with this recipe?
Totally! This Sesame Almond Slaw contains soy sauce, which may not be suitable for those with a soy allergy. To make it gluten-free, use tamari instead of regular soy sauce. Additionally, for a nut-free option, you can replace sliced almonds with sunflower seeds. Always double-check ingredient labels to ensure they meet your dietary needs!
How long can I keep the dressing in the fridge?
You can keep any unused dressing in a sealed jar in the refrigerator for about 1 week. Just be sure to give it a good shake before using, as the ingredients may separate over time. Enjoy the convenience of having a deliciously zesty dressing on hand for salads or marinades!
Crispy Sesame Almond Slaw to Elevate Your Dinner Game
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by splitting ramen noodles in half, reserving one half for future use. Break apart the remaining noodles and place them in a mixing bowl.
- Add the shredded cabbage, romaine, sliced green onions, toasted almonds, and sesame seeds to the bowl with noodles. Toss everything together.
- In a jar, add rice vinegar, sugar, canola oil, water, sesame oil, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Secure the lid tightly and shake well until emulsified.
- Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
- Serve immediately for the best texture, or chill briefly before serving.