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A vibrant mix of crunchy vegetables and tender grilled sesame chicken come together in this Asian-inspired salad that's both refreshing and satisfying. Each forkful delivers crisp cabbage, sweet carrots, and juicy chicken, all embraced by a homemade sesame ginger dressing that perfectly balances sweet, savory, and tangy flavors.
When I first created this recipe during a warm summer day, I was aiming for something light yet satisfying. After watching my team devour their portions and immediately ask for seconds, I knew this combination was something special.
Essential Ingredients
- Fresh cabbage: Choose both red and green varieties for color and slightly different flavors
- Bell peppers: Look for firm, bright red peppers with glossy skin
- Carrots: Select fresh, crisp carrots for the best crunch and natural sweetness
- Sesame ginger dressing: Made with toasted sesame oil for authentic Asian flavor
- Grilled sesame chicken: Marinated before cooking to infuse maximum flavor
Step By Step Instructions
- 1. Prepare the Chicken
- Begin by marinating your chicken in a blend of sesame oil, soy sauce, and aromatics. Let it absorb these flavors while you prep other ingredients. Grill until just cooked through to maintain juiciness.
- 2. Toast the Nuts
- Carefully toast sliced almonds until golden brown and fragrant, stirring frequently to prevent burning. This simple step adds incredible depth to the final dish. Let cool completely before adding to the salad.
- 3. Make the Dressing
- Whisk together sesame oil, ginger, honey, and rice vinegar until well combined. Taste and adjust seasonings - the dressing should be bold as it will distribute throughout the salad.
- 4. Prepare the Vegetables
- Shred both cabbages finely for the best texture. Julienne carrots and bell peppers into thin strips. Slice jalapeños thinly if using, removing seeds for less heat.
- 5. Final Assembly
- Combine prepared vegetables in a large bowl. Toss with enough dressing to coat everything lightly. Top with sliced chicken, toasted nuts, and fresh herbs just before serving.
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My journey with Asian-inspired salads began in a tiny restaurant where I first tasted the magical combination of sesame dressing and fresh vegetables. This recipe captures that same excitement while being completely customizable to your preferences.
Storage Success
Keep prepped vegetables in separate containers with paper towels to absorb excess moisture. Store dressing separately in an airtight container. When ready to serve, combine everything fresh for the best texture and crunch.
Making It Plant-Based
Transform this into a vegan delight by swapping the chicken for grilled tofu or edamame. The sesame marinade works beautifully with both alternatives, maintaining the protein content while keeping all the flavors you love.
Perfect Pairings
Consider adding cooked ramen noodles or rice to make this a more substantial meal. For extra crunch, top with crispy wonton strips or additional toasted sesame seeds.
Vegetable Variations
Feel free to incorporate shredded brussels sprouts, finely chopped broccoli, or even massaged kale. The key is cutting everything into similar sizes for the best eating experience.
After countless iterations of this salad, I've found that it's more than just a meal - it's a celebration of textures and flavors that somehow manages to be both light and satisfying. Whether you're meal prepping for the week or serving guests, this versatile salad proves that healthy eating can be incredibly delicious.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → How can I meal prep this salad?
- Store the dressing separately and add just before serving. The undressed salad will stay crisp for 3-4 days in the fridge.
- → Can I make this vegetarian?
- Yes! Simply omit the chicken and substitute with tofu or chickpeas for protein.
- → How long does the dressing keep?
- The sesame ginger dressing will keep well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.
- → Can I use pre-shredded cabbage?
- Yes! Coleslaw mix or pre-shredded cabbage works great as a time-saver.
- → What can I substitute for nuts if there's an allergy?
- Sunflower seeds or pepitas make great nut-free alternatives for crunch.