Cucumber & Napa Cabbage Coleslaw
This Cucumber & Napa CabbageColeslaw is a light, crunchy, and refreshing twist on classic coleslaw. The combination of crisp Napa cabbage, cool cucumbers, and a tangy dressing makes it perfect as a side dish for grilled meats, seafood, or sandwiches. It’s a great choice for summer picnics, BBQs, or as a healthy meal prep option.
Prep Time & Cook Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Resting Time: 10 minutes (for flavors to meld)
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Ingredients
For the Slaw:
4 cups Napa cabbage, thinly sliced
1 large cucumber, julienned or thinly sliced
1 medium carrot, julienned (optional, for color and sweetness)
2 green onions, thinly sliced
¼ cup fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (optional)
1 tbsp sesame seeds (for garnish, optional)
For the Dressing:
3 tbsp rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil (or sesame oil for an Asian-inspired twist)
1 tbsp honey (or maple syrup for vegan option)
1 tsp Dijon mustard (for tang and depth)
1 tsp soy sauce or Tamari (optional, for umami)
1 clove garlic, minced
½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
¼ tsp black pepper
½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Vegetables
1. Thinly slice the Napa cabbage, cucumber, and carrot.
2. Place them in a large mixing bowl along with green onions and fresh herbs.
2. Make the Dressing
1. In a small bowl or jar, whisk together rice vinegar, olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, soy sauce (if using), garlic, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
2. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
3. Combine & Rest
1. Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss well to coat.
2. Let the coleslaw sit for 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Serve & Garnish
1. Sprinkle with sesame seeds before serving.
2. Enjoy chilled or at room temperature as a side dish or light salad.
Nutritional Information
Calories: ~90
Protein: ~2g
Carbohydrates: ~10g
Fiber: ~3g
Fat: ~5g
Sodium: ~200mg (varies with soy sauce and added salt)
Notes & Tips
Make it Creamy: Add ¼ cup Greek yogurt or mayonnaise for a richer texture.
Spice It Up: Mix in a dash of sriracha or chili oil for extra heat.
Nutty Twist: Add chopped almonds, peanuts, or cashews for crunch.
Storage: Keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, but is best eaten fresh.
This coleslaw is light, refreshing, and packed with nutrients.