Sesame Ginger Slaw

Welcome to a recipe that’s more than just a dish; it’s a cherished family tradition passed down through generations. This incredibly flavorful **Asian Slaw recipe** has graced our dinner table for decades, a testament to its irresistible taste and satisfying crunch. With its perfect balance of savory seasoning and a hint of sweetness, this slaw is remarkably easy to prepare, featuring delightfully **roasted ramen noodles**, crunchy slivered almonds, and fragrant sesame seeds. Juicy mandarin oranges add a bright, zesty touch that elevates every bite. My mom has been preparing this beloved salad since my childhood, and now, it’s my joy to share this time-honored recipe with you, inviting you to create your own delicious memories.

Why You’ll Love This Asian Slaw

There are countless reasons why this particular **Asian Slaw recipe** has remained a steadfast favorite in our family for so long, and why I believe it will quickly become a staple in your kitchen too. It’s not just a side dish; it’s a vibrant symphony of tastes and textures that brightens any meal.

• A Legacy of Flavor: This version of **Asian coleslaw** isn’t just a recipe; it’s a family heirloom. My mom introduced it to me when I was a child, and the joy it brought to our table was undeniable. Now, I proudly continue this tradition, serving it to my own children, and watching their faces light up with every spoonful. It’s a huge hit in my house, creating cherished memories with every gathering.
• Vibrant & Irresistible Taste: My no-mayo **ramen noodle slaw recipe** bursts with bright, vibrant, and utterly delicious flavors. The fresh crunch of the cabbage mix is perfectly complemented by the unexpected sweetness and tang of **mandarin oranges**, adding a juicy texture and a burst of citrus that awakens the palate. The star of the show, however, might be the wonderfully toasted ramen noodles and crisp slivered almonds, which together create an addictive crunch that makes this **crunchy Asian salad** truly special.
• Versatile Pairing Perfection: This **easy Asian slaw** makes an exceptional **side dish for a number of Asian-inspired entrées**. Imagine it alongside a rich Instant Pot Chicken Teriyaki, a spicy Hunan Beef, crispy Shrimp Tempura, or a savory Mandarin Chicken. It offers a refreshing and textural contrast that rice or hibachi veggies simply can’t match, providing a light yet satisfying accompaniment that perfectly cuts through richer flavors.
• Effortlessly Delicious: Despite its gourmet taste, this **homemade Asian slaw** is surprisingly simple to put together, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or last-minute potlucks. Most of the ingredients are pantry staples, and the steps are straightforward, ensuring a delicious outcome every time.

How to Make This Recipe: A Step-by-Step Guide

For a full list of measurements, ingredients, and detailed instructions, please refer to the recipe card below.

Toast the Crunchy Mix-Ins

The secret to this **crunchy Asian slaw** lies in its wonderfully toasted elements. Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Take a packet of dry ramen noodles (discarding the seasoning for now, we’ll use it in the dressing!) and break them into smaller, bite-sized pieces. Spread these noodle pieces evenly across a large baking sheet. Add your slivered almonds and a generous sprinkle of sesame seeds to the same sheet, ensuring they are also in a single layer for even toasting. Pop the baking sheet into the preheated oven for about 8-10 minutes. Keep a close eye on them, as nuts and seeds can go from perfectly golden to burnt very quickly. You’re looking for a beautiful, light golden-brown color and a fragrant, nutty aroma. This toasting process is crucial as it unlocks a deeper flavor and provides that essential textural contrast that makes this **ramen noodle salad** so addictive. Once toasted, remove from the oven and set aside to cool completely. Cooling is vital to maintain their crispness when mixed with the salad.

Craft the Irresistible Dressing

The heart of any great slaw is its dressing, and this one is no exception. In a medium mixing bowl, combine your wet and dry dressing ingredients: avocado oil (or any neutral-flavored oil you prefer), granulated sugar, red wine vinegar, and that reserved seasoning packet from the ramen noodles. The ramen seasoning packet adds a unique savory umami depth that is characteristic of this **Asian slaw dressing**. Whisk everything together thoroughly until the sugar is dissolved and all ingredients are fully combined into a smooth, emulsified dressing. This vigorous whisking helps meld the flavors beautifully. Once prepared, cover the bowl and refrigerate the dressing. Chilling the dressing is a critical step, especially if you have the time to let it sit for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the ingredients to truly meld and deepen in flavor, resulting in a richer, more harmonious dressing that perfectly coats the crisp vegetables.

Assemble and Serve for Maximum Flavor

Now comes the moment to bring all the delicious components together. In your largest serving bowl, combine the pre-packaged coleslaw mix, freshly chopped green onions, and the segmented mandarin oranges. Once your toasted ramen noodles, slivered almonds, and sesame seeds have completely cooled (this is important to prevent the slaw from becoming soggy), add them to the serving bowl as well. Gently toss all these ingredients together until they are well blended and evenly distributed. The goal is to combine everything without bruising the delicate cabbage. Finally, pour the chilled dressing generously over the entire slaw mixture. With a pair of salad servers, toss everything once more, ensuring that every strand of cabbage and every piece of mix-in is thoroughly coated with the delicious, vibrant dressing. Serve the **mandarin orange slaw** immediately after dressing for maximum crunch and freshness. The crisp textures and bright flavors are at their peak right after mixing, making it an unforgettable side dish for any occasion!

Essential Tips for the Best Asian Slaw

While this **easy Asian slaw** recipe is straightforward, a few key tips can elevate your creation from good to extraordinary:

• Freshness is Key: Always start with the freshest coleslaw mix and green onions. Vibrant, crisp vegetables make a significant difference in the final texture and taste of your salad. If using a pre-bagged mix, check the date to ensure maximum freshness.
• Even Toasting: When toasting the ramen noodles, almonds, and sesame seeds, spread them in a single layer on the baking sheet. Overcrowding can lead to uneven toasting, some parts browning too quickly while others remain pale. Stirring them halfway through the baking time also helps ensure consistent crunch and color.
• Cool Completely: Do not rush the cooling process for your toasted mix-ins. Adding warm or even slightly warm noodles and almonds to the cold slaw and dressing can cause the ingredients to become soggy. Patience here ensures that delightful crispness.
• Chill the Dressing: As mentioned, chilling the dressing allows the flavors to deepen and meld. A cold dressing also helps keep the entire salad refreshing, especially important for a no-mayo slaw that relies on brightness.
• Serve Immediately: For the ultimate crunch, dress the slaw just before serving. While the dressing is delicious, it will gradually soften the toasted elements. If you’re preparing it for a party, keep the dressing, slaw mix, and toasted ingredients separate and combine them right before guests arrive.
• Taste and Adjust: Before pouring the dressing over the entire slaw, taste a small amount of the dressing on its own. Adjust the sweetness or tanginess to your preference. You might want a little more sugar for a sweeter profile or a splash more vinegar for an extra kick.

Recipe Variations to Customize Your Slaw

One of the beauties of this **Asian Slaw recipe** is its versatility. Feel free to experiment with these delicious variations to make it uniquely yours:

• Homemade Slaw Mix: Have a head of cabbage in the back of your fridge that’s dangerously near the end of its shelf life? Skip the pre-bagged slaw mix and use it instead! Shredding your own cabbage is super easy and often results in a fresher, crisper texture. Use a mix of green and purple cabbage for a more colorful and visually appealing coleslaw. You can also add other finely shredded vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or even broccoli slaw for extra nutrients and crunch.
• Nutty Additions: While slivered almonds are classic, feel free to substitute or add other nuts like chopped peanuts, cashews, or even toasted pecans for a different flavor profile. Just ensure they are toasted for maximum crunch and aroma.
• Protein Power-Up: Transform this side dish into a light main course by adding cooked protein. Shredded rotisserie chicken, grilled shrimp, pan-fried tofu, or even edamame can be tossed in just before serving for a complete meal.
• Spice It Up: If you enjoy a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing, or finely mince a jalapeño or serrano pepper and toss it with the slaw mix. A drizzle of sriracha or a dash of chili oil can also be added to the dressing.
• Fruitful Flavors: Beyond mandarin oranges, consider adding other fruits for different sweet and tangy notes. Diced mango, pineapple chunks, or even thinly sliced apples can provide a lovely contrast.
• Herbal Infusions: Fresh cilantro or mint, finely chopped, can add an incredible layer of freshness and aromatic complexity to the slaw. Add them right before tossing and serving.
• Alternative Oils & Vinegars: While avocado oil is recommended, toasted sesame oil can be added in a small quantity (a teaspoon or two) to the dressing for a more pronounced nutty Asian flavor. Rice wine vinegar can also be swapped for red wine vinegar for a slightly milder tang.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some common questions about making this delightful Asian Slaw:

• Can I make this Asian Slaw ahead of time? You can prepare the components ahead of time, but for the best results and maximum crunch, it’s highly recommended to assemble and dress the slaw just before serving. You can toast the noodles and almonds, make the dressing, and chop the green onions a day or two in advance. Store each component separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator (dressing) and at room temperature (toasted mix-ins).
• What if I don’t have mandarin oranges? Canned mandarin oranges work perfectly well for this recipe; just be sure to drain them thoroughly. If you prefer fresh, small oranges like satsumas or clementines can be peeled and segmented as a substitute. You could also try diced pineapple for a similar sweet-tart note.
• Can I use a different type of cabbage? Absolutely! While pre-bagged coleslaw mix (which usually contains green cabbage and carrots) is convenient, you can certainly use freshly shredded green cabbage, red cabbage, napa cabbage, or a blend of any of these for a customized texture and color.
• Is this recipe gluten-free? The ramen noodles are typically not gluten-free. To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute the ramen noodles with gluten-free crispy chow mein noodles or even toasted rice vermicelli. Ensure your ramen seasoning packet (or its substitute) and other ingredients are also certified gluten-free.
• How long does the Asian Slaw last? Once dressed, the slaw is best eaten immediately for optimal crispness. If there are leftovers, they will keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 days, but the noodles and cabbage will soften considerably.
• What kind of ramen noodles should I use? Use standard instant ramen noodles. Just discard the seasoning packet for the noodles themselves, as we only use the dry noodles for toasting and the seasoning packet for the dressing. Chicken-flavored ramen seasoning is specified, but any savory flavor will work well in the dressing.

Recipe By:
Cheryl Malik

Crunchy Asian Slaw with Mandarin Oranges

Prep
15 minutes

Cook
10 minutes

Total
25 minutes

This family-favorite Asian Slaw features perfectly roasted ramen noodles, crisp slivered almonds, and a juicy burst of mandarin oranges, all coated in a savory-sweet, no-mayo dressing. It’s a quick, easy, and incredibly flavorful side dish perfect for any occasion!

Cheryl Malik

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6 servings

Equipment

• Oven
• Large baking sheet
• Medium mixing bowl (with lid or plastic wrap to cover)
• Whisk
• Large serving bowl
• Salad servers

Ingredients

For the Slaw

• Dry ramen noodles (from 1 packet chicken-flavor ramen noodle soup)
• 3 ounces slivered almonds
• Sesame seeds (for toasting, about 1 tablespoon)
• 1 (16-ounce) bag coleslaw mix
• 1 cup chopped green onions (approximately 1 bunch)
• 2 small mandarin oranges (approximately 3 ounces each; peeled, segmented)

For the Dressing

• ½ cup avocado oil (or other neutral-flavored oil)
• ¼ cup granulated sugar (or Granular Swerve for sugar-free)
• 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• Seasoning packet (from 1 packet chicken-flavor ramen noodle soup)

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350° Fahrenheit (175°C). Break dry ramen noodles into small pieces, then arrange broken noodles, 3 ounces slivered almonds, and sesame seeds on a large baking sheet.
2. Place baking sheet in the preheated oven. Bake ingredients for 8-10 minutes or until just golden brown and fragrant. Watch carefully to prevent burning. Once browned, carefully remove the baking sheet from the oven and set aside to cool completely.
3. While the mix-ins are toasting and cooling, prepare the dressing. Add ½ cup avocado oil, ¼ cup granulated sugar, 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar, and the seasoning packet to a medium mixing bowl. Whisk ingredients together vigorously until fully incorporated and the sugar is dissolved.
4. Cover the bowl and refrigerate the dressing mixture until ready to serve. For best flavor, chill for at least 30 minutes.
5. Once the toasted almonds and noodles have cooled completely, add them along with the 16-ounce bag coleslaw mix, 1 cup chopped green onions, and 2 small mandarin oranges to a large serving bowl. Toss the salad gently until all ingredients are well blended.
6. Pour the chilled dressing over the slaw mixture. Toss until the slaw mixture is fully coated in the dressing. Serve immediately for maximum crunch and freshest flavor.

Notes:

• Storage: To maintain the crisp texture of the ingredients, it is best to refrigerate the dressing separately from the slaw mixture. Store the toasted ramen noodles, almonds, and sesame seeds in an airtight container at room temperature. Combine all ingredients immediately before serving. Leftovers of dressed slaw will soften and are best consumed within 1-2 days.

Approximate Nutrition Information for One Serving

Nutrition Facts (per serving)
Serving Size:	1 serving
Calories:	300 cal
Protein:	4 g
Fat:	25 g
Saturated Fat:	3 g
Trans Fat:	0.002 g
Sodium:	17 mg
Potassium:	282 mg
Total Carbs:	17 g
Fiber:	4 g
Sugar:	12 g
Net Carbs:	13 g
Vitamin A:	240 IU
Vitamin C:	31 mg
Calcium:	81 mg
Iron:	1 mg

Nutrition Disclaimers

Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.

Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.

To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.

More Asian-Inspired Dishes to Explore

If you loved this **Asian Slaw**, you’re in for a treat! Here are more of my favorite Asian-inspired recipes that deliver on flavor and are perfect for any occasion:

• Black Pepper Chicken: A quick and savory stir-fry bursting with peppery goodness.
• Egg Roll in a Bowl with Creamy Chili Sauce: All the flavors of an egg roll without the wrapper, paleo-friendly!
• Keto Egg Drop Soup: A comforting, low-carb classic that’s surprisingly easy to make.
• Shrimp Fried Rice: A takeout favorite made healthier and tastier at home.
• Salt and Pepper Tofu: Crispy, flavorful tofu that’s a perfect vegetarian main or side.
• 15 Minute Spicy Ramen: When you need a quick, satisfying, and spicy noodle fix.
• Chicken Egg Roll in a Bowl: Another fantastic take on the egg roll, loaded with chicken and veggies.
• Hunan Beef: A spicy and robust beef stir-fry that brings the heat and flavor.
• Instant Pot Black Rice (aka Forbidden Rice): A unique and nutritious grain, cooked to perfection.
• Tom Kha Goong (Thai Coconut Shrimp Soup): A creamy, aromatic, and comforting Thai soup.
• Teriyaki Pork Chops: Sweet and savory pork chops, great for a quick dinner.