Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad

Fresh and delicious Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad is the perfect blend of vibrant, crunchy vegetables and juicy grilled chicken. This salad is not only packed with flavor but also easy to customize, making it ideal for any occasion—whether a quick weeknight dinner or a colorful dish for gatherings. The standout feature is the homemade sesame ginger dressing that ties all the ingredients together beautifully.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time, you can whip up this salad in just about an hour.
  • Customizable: Feel free to swap in your favorite veggies or proteins to make it your own.
  • Flavor-Packed: The combination of sesame and ginger creates a deliciously unique dressing that elevates the dish.
  • Healthy and Nutritious: Loaded with fresh vegetables and lean protein, this salad is a wholesome option for any meal.
  • Perfect for Meal Prep: Make it ahead of time for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.
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Tools and Preparation

To prepare your Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad smoothly, having the right tools on hand will make all the difference.

Essential Tools and Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Cutting board
  • Sharp knife
  • Grater (for carrots)
  • Whisk (for dressing)
  • Grill or oven for cooking chicken

Importance of Each Tool

  • Large mixing bowl: Ensures you have enough space to mix all your ingredients without making a mess.
  • Sharp knife: A sharp knife makes cutting your veggies easier and safer, allowing for more precise slices.
  • Grater: Perfect for shredding carrots quickly, adding texture and crunch to your salad.
  • Whisk: Ideal for mixing together your sesame ginger dressing evenly.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

  • Grilled Sesame Chicken

For the Salad

  • 4 cups shredded green cabbage
  • 2 cups shredded red cabbage
  • 1/2 cup diced green onion
  • 3/4 cup freshly diced cilantro
  • 1 cup shredded carrots (bagged or cut into matchsticks for excellent crunch!)
  • 1 red bell pepper, thinly julienned
  • 1 jalapeno, seeded and diced

For the Dressing

  • 1 batch Sesame Ginger Dressing

For Serving

  • 1/3 cup toasted sliced almonds
  • 1/3 cup roasted cashew halves
  • Sesame seeds
  • Extra cilantro
  • Extra green onion
  • A few jalapeno slices
  • Optional: Crispy wonton strips

How to Make Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

  1. Begin by marinating the chicken using your favorite grilled sesame chicken recipe. Allow it to soak up those flavors while you prepare the rest of your salad.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing

  1. Make your sesame ginger dressing according to your recipe. Set it aside so the flavors can meld together.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine:
  2. Green cabbage,
  3. Red cabbage,
  4. Green onion,
  5. Cilantro,
  6. Carrots,
  7. Bell pepper,
  8. Jalapeno.
  9. Pour the prepared dressing over the salad mixture.
  10. Toss everything together until well coated. Cover and let it sit while you finish cooking your chicken.

Step 4: Serve the Salad

  1. Transfer the salad onto a large platter.
  2. Garnish with:
  3. Toasted sliced almonds,
  4. Roasted cashews,
  5. Extra cilantro,
  6. A sprinkle of sesame seeds,
  7. A few jalapeno slices,
  8. Additional chopped green onion if desired.
  9. Optional: Add crispy wonton strips for an extra crunch!
  10. Enjoy! This salad serves 4 as a hearty main dish or 6 as a side dish.

How to Serve Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad

This Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad is a colorful and nutritious dish that can be served in various delightful ways. Whether you are enjoying it as a main course or a side, these serving suggestions will enhance your dining experience.

As a Main Dish

  • Serve on a large platter for family-style dining, allowing everyone to help themselves.
  • Pair with grilled shrimp or tofu for an additional protein boost.

As a Side Dish

  • Accompany with grilled meats such as teriyaki chicken or steak for a complete meal.
  • Offer alongside Asian-inspired dishes like sushi or spring rolls for a themed dinner.

With Extra Toppings

  • Top with crispy wonton strips for added texture and flavor.
  • Add more fresh herbs like mint or basil to brighten the salad.

How to Perfect Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad

Making the perfect Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad is all about balance and flavor. Here are some tips to elevate your dish.

  • Choose Fresh Ingredients: Use the freshest vegetables possible for the best crunch and flavor.
  • Customize Your Greens: Mix different types of cabbage or add leafy greens like spinach for variety.
  • Marinate the Chicken Well: Letting the chicken marinate longer enhances its flavor and tenderness.
  • Adjust Dressing to Taste: Feel free to add more sesame oil or ginger to tailor the dressing to your preference.
  • Add Texture Variations: Incorporate nuts or seeds like sunflower seeds for extra crunch.
  • Serve Chilled: Refrigerate the salad before serving for a refreshing taste.

Best Side Dishes for Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad

Pairing side dishes with your Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.

  1. Steamed Jasmine Rice: A light and fragrant rice that complements the salad perfectly.
  2. Miso Soup: A warm, savory soup that balances the freshness of the salad.
  3. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal veggies drizzled with olive oil add depth and flavor.
  4. Spring Rolls: Light and crunchy, these rolls pair wonderfully with the salad’s textures.
  5. Edamame Beans: A protein-packed snack that’s easy to prepare and adds color.
  6. Coconut Quinoa: Nutty quinoa cooked in coconut milk offers a tropical twist.
  7. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits provides sweetness that contrasts nicely with savory flavors.
  8. Cucumber Salad: Crisp cucumbers tossed in rice vinegar make an excellent palate cleanser.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing your Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your salad turns out perfectly every time.

  • Boldly skip the marinating: Not marinating the chicken can lead to bland flavors. Take the time to let it soak in the sesame marinade for at least 30 minutes.
  • Overloading on dressing: Adding too much dressing can drown your salad. Start with a small amount and toss, adding more if needed.
  • Ignoring texture: If you don’t use a variety of vegetables, your salad may lack crunch. Include both cabbage types and fresh carrots for the best texture.
  • Cutting veggies unevenly: If your veggies are not cut uniformly, they won’t mix well. Aim for similar sizes to ensure even distribution in each bite.
  • Forgetting garnishes: Skipping garnishes can make your dish look less appealing. Don’t forget the toasted almonds, cashews, and sesame seeds for that perfect finish.
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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

  • Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Keep the dressing separate until ready to serve for optimal freshness.

Freezing Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad

  • Freezing is not recommended as the textures of fresh veggies will change once thawed.

Reheating Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad

  • Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.
  • Microwave: Heat chicken in short bursts of 30 seconds until hot, being careful not to overcook.
  • Stovetop: Sauté chicken in a pan over medium heat until warmed through, stirring frequently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad.

Can I use different proteins in my Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad?

Yes, feel free to swap grilled chicken with shrimp, tofu, or any protein you prefer!

How do I make the dressing for the Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad?

To make the dressing, combine sesame oil, ginger, garlic, soy sauce, and vinegar. Whisk until well blended.

Is Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad gluten-free?

Yes! Just ensure that your soy sauce is gluten-free if you’re sensitive or allergic.

How can I customize my Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad?

You can add other vegetables like cucumbers or bell peppers or include fruits like mandarin oranges for sweetness.

Final Thoughts

The Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can easily adjust the ingredients based on what you have available or what you enjoy most. Give this healthy recipe a try and feel free to customize it to suit your taste!

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Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad

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Indulge in the refreshing and vibrant Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad, a delightful dish that combines crunchy vegetables with succulent grilled chicken. This salad is not only bursting with flavor but also offers incredible versatility, allowing you to customize it with your favorite ingredients. The homemade sesame ginger dressing unifies the elements beautifully, making it perfect for quick weeknight dinners or festive gatherings. With an array of textures and colors, this salad is both a visual treat and a nutritious option. Enjoy it as a main course or as a colorful side dish that complements any meal.

  • Author: Caroline
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: Mixing
  • Cuisine: Asian

Ingredients

Scale
  • Grilled sesame chicken
  • 4 cups shredded green cabbage
  • 2 cups shredded red cabbage
  • 1/2 cup diced green onion
  • 3/4 cup freshly diced cilantro
  • 1 cup shredded carrots
  • 1 red bell pepper, thinly julienned
  • 1 jalapeno, seeded and diced
  • 1 batch Sesame Ginger Dressing
  • 1/3 cup toasted sliced almonds
  • 1/3 cup roasted cashew halves
  • Sesame seeds
  • Extra cilantro
  • Extra green onion
  • A few jalapeno slices
  • Optional: Crispy wonton strips

Instructions

  1. Marinate the chicken using your preferred grilled sesame chicken recipe.
  2. Prepare the sesame ginger dressing and set aside.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the green cabbage, red cabbage, green onion, cilantro, carrots, bell pepper, and jalapeno.
  4. Drizzle the dressing over the salad mixture and toss well until evenly coated.
  5. Serve on a platter, garnished with toasted almonds, roasted cashews, sesame seeds, extra cilantro, jalapeno slices, and optional crispy wonton strips.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 salad portion (250g)
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 480mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 15g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 23g
  • Fiber: 7g
  • Protein: 20g
  • Cholesterol: 45mg

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