Healthy Asian Coleslaw

Barbecues call for the quintessential side dish: coleslaw. This Healthy Asian Coleslaw, with its crisp texture and tangy flavor, perfectly complements the smoky, savory goodness of grilled meats and vegetables. Its refreshing crunch provides a delightful contrast to the richness of barbecued fare, making it a staple on outdoor dining tables everywhere. Whether it’s served as a topping for burgers and tacos or enjoyed on its own as a refreshing side, coleslaw adds a touch of summery vibrancy to any barbecue spread. With its versatility and crowd-pleasing appeal, coleslaw effortlessly elevates the outdoor dining experience, turning ordinary gatherings into memorable culinary celebrations of summer.

Serves: 4

Ingredients

 4 cups shredded green cabbage

 1 cup shredded red cabbage

 1 large carrot, grated

 1/2 red bell pepper, thinly sliced

 2 green onions, thinly sliced

 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro leaves

 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves

For the Dressing

 3 tablespoons rice vinegar

 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup

 2 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium if possible)

 1 tablespoon sesame oil

 1 clove garlic, minced

 1/2 teaspoon hot sauce sauce (optional, adjust to taste)

 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger

 Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Garnish

 Sesame seeds or chopped roasted peanuts or almonds

Instructions

Prepare the Vegetables:

Wash all the vegetables thoroughly.

Shred the green and red cabbage using a sharp knife, mandolin slicer, or food processor fitted with a shredding blade.

Peel and grate the carrot using a box grater or a food processor.

Thinly slice the red bell pepper and green onions.

Chop the cilantro and mint leaves finely.

Make the Dressing:

In a small mixing bowl, whisk together rice vinegar, soy sauce, honey or maple syrup, sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, and hot sauce (if using).

Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning according to your preference.

Combine Ingredients:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded green cabbage, red cabbage, grated carrot, sliced red bell pepper, sliced green onions, chopped cilantro, and chopped mint leaves.

Pour the dressing over the vegetable mixture in the bowl. 

Toss well to ensure all the vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing.

Chill and Serve:

 Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the coleslaw to an airtight container.

Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Before serving, give the coleslaw a final toss and if desired sprinkle sesame seeds and chopped roasted peanuts or almonds on top for added texture and flavor.

Serve the Healthy Asian Coleslaw as a refreshing side dish alongside grilled chicken, fish, or tofu. Enjoy!

Note: You can customize this coleslaw recipe by adding other vegetables like thinly sliced snow peas, shredded daikon radish, or julienned cucumbers. Additionally, feel free to adjust the sweetness or spiciness of the dressing according to your taste preferences.

Nutritional Information Per Serving

Calories: 110 kcal;  Total Fat: 4g; Saturated Fat: 0.5g; Trans Fat: 0g; Cholesterol: 0mg; Sodium: 450mg;  Total Carbohydrates: 17g; Dietary Fiber: 4g; Sugars: 9g; Protein: 3g