Get ready to transform your taste buds with the most addictive salad you've never known you needed! This Chinese Napa Cabbage Salad is not just a side dish – it's a crunchy, vibrant culinary adventure that will make you forget everything you thought you knew about salads. Packed with fresh, crisp vegetables and a mind-blowing dressing that dances between savory and tangy, this recipe is about to become your new obsession.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: Chinese
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 head Napa cabbage, shredded
- 1 carrot, grated
- 1/2 cup green onions, sliced
- 1/4 cup sesame seeds
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
Instructions
- Begin by preparing all your ingredients. Rinse the Napa cabbage under cold water to remove any dirt or grit. Once clean, remove the outer leaves if they are wilted, then shred the cabbage into thin strips. Place the shredded cabbage in a large mixing bowl.
- Next, peel and grate the carrot using a box grater or a food processor. Add the grated carrot to the bowl with the Napa cabbage.
- Slice the green onions thinly, including both the white and green parts. Add the sliced green onions to the mixing bowl with the cabbage and carrot.
- In a small dry skillet over medium heat, toast the sesame seeds. Stir them frequently for about 2-3 minutes, or until they are golden and fragrant. Be careful not to burn them. Once toasted, remove from heat and let them cool slightly before adding to the salad.
- In a separate small bowl, prepare the dressing by combining the soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Whisk these ingredients together until well blended.
- Pour the dressing over the shredded Napa cabbage, grated carrot, and sliced green onions in the large mixing bowl. Toss everything together gently to ensure all the vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing.
- Finally, sprinkle the toasted sesame seeds over the top of the salad. Toss again lightly to distribute the sesame seeds throughout the salad.
- Serve the Chinese Napa Cabbage Salad immediately for the best texture and flavor. Enjoy it as a refreshing side dish or a light main course!
Tips
- Cabbage Prep: Always choose a fresh, firm Napa cabbage with crisp leaves. Wash thoroughly and dry completely to ensure maximum crunch.
- Toasting Sesame Seeds: Watch them like a hawk! Sesame seeds can burn quickly, so keep them moving in the pan and remove from heat the moment they turn golden brown.
- Dressing Hack: Make the dressing ahead of time and let it sit for 15-30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together even more intensely.
- Serving Suggestion: For extra texture, consider adding some toasted almonds or crispy wonton strips just before serving.
- Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare the vegetables and dressing separately, and combine just before serving to keep everything crisp and fresh.Pro tip: This salad is best enjoyed immediately after mixing to maintain the perfect crunch and vibrant flavors!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 85kcal
Carbohydrates: 10g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
