Asian Coleslaw

When I think about summer picnics and family gatherings, one dish always comes to mind: Asian Coleslaw. Growing up, my mom would whip up this vibrant, crunchy salad that was a showstopper at every potluck. The combination of textures from the crispy cabbage and tender chicken, along with the nutty flavor from the slivered almonds, made it a favorite among friends and family. It’s not just about the taste; it’s about the memories created around the table, sharing laughter and stories with loved ones. As a child, I loved helping her in the kitchen, breaking the Ramen noodles into bits and mixing the dressing. Now, I make it for my own gatherings, and it never fails to impress! It’s a versatile dish that can be served as a side or a light main course, and it’s always a hit.

Key Ingredients for Asian Coleslaw

The ingredients in this Asian Coleslaw work together to create a refreshing and satisfying dish. Each component plays a crucial role, from the crunchy vegetables to the flavorful dressing. The key players include fresh cabbage, tender chicken, and the nutty essence of slivered almonds and sunflower seeds, all harmonizing to deliver a delightful crunch.

• 2 packages Ramen Noodles (without seasoning packets): These noodles add a delightful crunch and are the star of this coleslaw. Breaking them into smaller pieces allows them to integrate perfectly with the other ingredients.
• 1/2 cup butter: This ingredient helps in toasting the Ramen noodles, enhancing their flavor and adding richness to the dish.
• 1 cup slivered almonds: These add a wonderful crunch and nutty flavor that complements the dressing beautifully.
• 1/2 cup sunflower seeds: Another layer of crunch that brings texture to the salad.
• 1 1/2 cups chicken (cooked and cubed): The protein in this dish makes it more satisfying as a meal rather than just a side.
• 1/3 cup rice vinegar: This gives the dressing its tangy base, balancing the sweetness from the sugar.
• 2/3 cup sugar: Adds sweetness that contrasts with the acidity of the vinegar.
• 1/3 cup olive oil: Lends a smooth texture to the dressing and helps bring all the flavors together.
• 2 tbsp soy sauce: This ingredient adds depth and a savory note to the dressing.
• 1 tbsp mustard (optional): A hint of mustard can enhance the flavor profile of the dressing.
• 1 package coleslaw: The main vegetable base, providing crunch and freshness.

Making This Asian Coleslaw

Creating this Asian Coleslaw is a straightforward process that involves combining crunchy noodles, fresh vegetables, and a tangy dressing. Let’s dive into the steps to ensure you achieve the perfect balance of flavors and textures.

1. Begin by breaking up the Ramen Noodles into small pieces. I find that using my hands is the best method—just gently crush them into bite-sized bits. Place the broken noodles into a pan over low-medium heat. This will be the base of your salad.
2. Add 1/2 cup butter to the pan with the noodles. Allow it to melt and coat the noodles evenly. Stir frequently to prevent burning. You want the noodles to turn a golden brown color, which can take about 8 to 10 minutes.
3. Once the noodles are toasty, it’s time to add the slivered almonds and sunflower seeds. Stir them into the pan and continue cooking for another 2 to 3 minutes. You’ll hear a satisfying crunch as they toast, adding a delightful nutty flavor to your mixture.
4. In a large bowl, combine the coleslaw mix with the toasted noodle mixture and chicken. The warm noodles will slightly wilt the cabbage, offering a pleasing texture contrast. Toss everything together gently to ensure the ingredients are evenly distributed.
5. Now, let’s make the dressing. In a small bowl, whisk together rice vinegar, sugar, olive oil, soy sauce, and the optional mustard. Taste the dressing to see if it needs more sweetness or acidity according to your preference.
6. Drizzle the dressing over the salad mixture. Gently toss everything together until the cabbage and noodles are well-coated. The dressing should cling to each ingredient, giving it flavor without being overwhelming.
7. For the best results, cover the dish and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together and the cabbage to soften just enough while still retaining its crunch.
8. Before serving, give the salad another good toss. Taste and adjust any seasoning if necessary. You can always add a splash more of soy sauce or a pinch of salt if needed.
9. Serve the Asian Coleslaw chilled. It makes for a great side dish or light meal on its own. Enjoy the satisfying crunch and the burst of flavors!

Expert Tips about Asian Coleslaw

Making the perfect Asian Coleslaw involves some key tips to ensure it turns out delightful every time. Here are some expert insights to elevate your dish.

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will continue to develop, but the noodles may lose some crunch.
• Freezing: This salad is not recommended for freezing due to the freshness of the cabbage and the texture of the noodles. It’s best enjoyed fresh.
• Pairing: Asian Coleslaw pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or fish. It’s also a great side dish for Asian-inspired meals.
• Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or shredded carrots to enhance the salad. You can also throw in some chopped cilantro for added freshness.
• Serving suggestion: This dish can be served as a side, a light lunch, or even as a filling in lettuce wraps for a fun twist.

Serving This Asian Coleslaw

Serving Asian Coleslaw is all about showcasing its vibrant colors and crunchy textures. Here are some ideas on how to serve this delightful dish:

• As a Side Dish: This coleslaw is a fantastic accompaniment to grilled meats or Asian-inspired dishes. It adds a refreshing contrast to rich and savory flavors.
• In Lettuce Wraps: For a lighter meal, serve the coleslaw in lettuce wraps. Spoon some of the salad into large lettuce leaves, and you have a fun, hand-held meal.
• For Picnics and Potlucks: This dish is perfect for summer gatherings. It travels well and can be made ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy your time with friends and family.
• Lunch Option: Pack this coleslaw in a lunchbox with some grilled chicken or tofu for a quick and nutritious meal.
• Seasonal Pairings: This salad is ideal for spring and summer meals but can also add a fresh touch to holiday dinners, making it versatile year-round.
• Storage Tips: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It’s best consumed within two to three days for maximum freshness.

FAQ

Conclusion

This Asian Coleslaw is a delightful blend of crunchy textures and vibrant flavors, making it a standout dish for any occasion. I encourage you to give it a try; it’s a fun and easy recipe that everyone will love. Bring it to your next gathering, and watch it disappear faster than you can say ‘delicious’!

Asian Coleslaw

Craving something crunchy and refreshing? This Asian Coleslaw is a delightful mix of textures and flavors, featuring crispy Ramen noodles, tender chicken, and a tangy dressing. Perfect for picnics or as a light meal, you'll want to make this easy weeknight dish tonight!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 8 minutes mins

Total Time 13 minutes mins

Course Side Dishes

Cuisine Asian

Servings 4 servings

Calories 320 kcal

Equipment

• Frying Pan
• Mixing Bowl

Ingredients

  

• 2 packages Ramen Noodles without seasoning packets
• 1/2 cup butter
• 1 cup slivered almonds
• 1/2 cup sunflower seeds
• 1 1/2 cups chicken cooked and cubed
• 1/3 cup rice vinegar
• 2/3 cup sugar
• 1/3 cup olive oil
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp mustard optional
• 1 package coleslaw

Instructions

 

• Break up Ramen Noodles into small pieces and place in a pan.
• Add 1/2 cup butter, slivered almonds, and sunflower seeds and cook for 8 to 10 minutes on low-medium heat.
• In a large bowl, add coleslaw, ramen noodle mixture, and chicken.
• Make dressing by combining rice vinegar, sugar, olive oil, soy sauce, and mustard in a small bowl.
• Add dressing and mix well. Serve coleslaw chilled.

Notes

Extra tips or suggestions here.

Keyword Asian coleslaw recipe, crunchy salad, easy coleslaw, potluck dish

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Meet Hanna Hart

I am obsessed with the “how” and “why” of cooking. It doesn’t matter if we are roasting a chicken or baking brownies; I am the one double-checking our measurements and cooking times. I love working on every type of cuisine and finding the absolute best method to get the results we want. I treat every recipe with the same level of care and dedication.