Easy Crunchy Thai Cabbage Salad Recipe with Fresh Ingredients

When you think of salads, what often comes to mind? Perhaps a boring pile of sad lettuce? Well, let me introduce you to the delightful Crunchy Thai cabbage salad—a colorful, zesty explosion of flavor that will dance on your taste buds. Imagine refreshing, crisp cabbage mingling with the sweetness of freshly squeezed orange juice and a charmingly spicy kick from chili. This salad doesn’t just sit on the plate; it shouts, “Eat me!” with an irresistible aroma that beckons you closer.

With memories of sunny picnics and outdoor barbecues framing my paltry attempts at cooking during college, I can still recall the day a friend introduced me to this divine dish. It quickly became a staple at our gatherings, turning otherwise mundane meals into vibrant feasts. Whether it’s a summer cookout, a lazy Sunday lunch, or just a spontaneous snack, this Crunchy Thai cabbage salad promises a rush of fresh flavors and textures that will keep you joyfully nibbling.

Ingredients for Crunchy Thai cabbage salad

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Crunchy Thai cabbage salad:

3 cups (220 g) cabbage – Thinly sliced for maximum crunch. Choose fresh and vibrant heads for the best flavor.

1 (150 g) large carrot – Grated for a pop of sweetness and color that complements the cabbage perfectly.

4 (40 g) spring onions – Thinly sliced to add a mild onion flavor and delightful crunch to the mix.

½ cup coriander leaves – Chopped to infuse a fragrant, herby freshness into every bite.

1 red cayenne chili – Deseeded and sliced for just the right amount of heat without overwhelming the salad.

1 tablespoon sunflower seeds – Toasted for a nutty flavor and additional crunch that elevates this salad.

1 tablespoon sesame seeds – A sprinkle of these little gems adds a delightful flavor and texture contrast.

1 tablespoon pepitas/pumpkin seeds – Packed with nutrients, they bring a lovely earthiness to the salad.

1 tablespoon sesame oil – Provides a rich, nutty taste that ties all the flavors together beautifully.

3 tablespoons lemon juice – Freshly squeezed to brighten up the salad and balance the flavors.

2 teaspoons light soy sauce – Adds a savory depth that enhances the overall taste without being too salty.

1 tablespoon tahini – Creamy goodness that creates a delectable dressing with a hint of nuttiness.

¼ cup orange juice – Freshly squeezed for a touch of sweetness and acidity that pairs beautifully with the other ingredients.

2 teaspoons coconut sugar – A natural sweetener with a caramel-like flavor that enriches the dressing.

1 teaspoon grated ginger – Adds warmth and spice for that authentic Thai flavor profile.

Pinch of salt – To taste, enhancing the overall flavor and brightening up the dish.

How to Make Crunchy Thai cabbage salad

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Crunchy Thai cabbage salad:

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
Start by slicing your cabbage, grating the carrot, and thinly slicing the spring onions and coriander. Toss them all together in a large mixing bowl. The vibrant colors should bring a smile to your face already!

Step 2: Toast the Seeds
In a heavy-bottomed frying pan, toast the sunflower seeds, sesame seeds, and pumpkin seeds over medium-low heat. Stir frequently to avoid burning. Once the sesame seeds turn golden and the mixture becomes aromatic, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly.

Step 3: Make the Dressing
In a medium bowl, combine the sesame oil, lemon juice, light soy sauce, tahini, orange juice, coconut sugar, grated ginger, and a pinch of salt. Mix it well with a metal spoon until it’s creamy and smooth, ensuring there are no lumps. This dressing is where all the magic happens!

Step 4: Combine Everything
Pour the toasted seeds into the large bowl with the vegetables. Then, drizzle the creamy dressing over the top. Toss everything together gently to ensure that every bite is coated in that incredible flavor.

Step 5: Let It Chill (Optional)
For the best flavor, let the salad sit in the fridge for about 15-30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. But let’s be honest—it’s so good, you might not want to wait!

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Transfer the salad to serving plates or a large bowl for everyone to enjoy. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats or as a stand-alone dish. Whatever you choose, this Crunchy Thai cabbage salad is sure to be a hit!

This salad is not only incredibly refreshing, but it’s also highly versatile. You can adjust the ingredients based on what’s in your fridge or your personal preferences. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight side dish or a stunning starter for your next gathering, this Crunchy Thai cabbage salad delivers on all fronts. Dig in and let the flavors transport you to a bustling Bangkok market—without leaving your kitchen!

This showstopping Crunchy Thai cabbage salad delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home. The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds. Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest. Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.

Perfecting Crunchy Thai cabbage salad Cooking Process

Start by preparing all your ingredients first. Thinly slice your cabbage, grate the carrot, and chop your herbs. Toast the seeds for a crunchy topping while mixing up the flavorful dressing. Combine everything in a large bowl for perfectly balanced flavors.

Add Your Touch to Crunchy Thai cabbage salad

Feel free to customize this salad! Swap cabbage for kale or shredded Brussels sprouts for a twist. You can also add proteins like grilled chicken or chickpeas for a heartier meal. Experimenting with different dressings can create exciting variations!

Storing & Reheating Crunchy Thai cabbage salad

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For the best texture, avoid reheating as the fresh crunch will soften. Enjoy it cold for a refreshing snack or side!

There’s nothing quite like the joy of seeing friends and family devour this salad at a summer barbecue. Their smiles and compliments made my effort so worthwhile, turning a simple dish into a cherished memory.

FAQs About Crunchy Thai cabbage salad

What is Crunchy Thai cabbage salad?

Crunchy Thai cabbage salad is a vibrant, delicious dish featuring a mix of fresh vegetables, toasted seeds, and a zesty dressing that brings all the flavors together. Made primarily with cabbage, carrots, and spring onions, it is enhanced with a coconut sugar dressing and garnished with herbs like coriander. This salad is not only refreshing but also packed with nutrients, making it a fantastic addition to your meals whether as a side or main dish.

How do I make Crunchy Thai cabbage salad dressings?

The dressing for your Crunchy Thai cabbage salad is a blend of sesame oil, lemon juice, light soy sauce, tahini, freshly squeezed orange juice, and a sprinkle of coconut sugar. To ensure a creamy consistency, mix these ingredients thoroughly using a metal spoon, breaking up any lumps. The balance of sweet, tangy, and savory in the dressing perfectly complements the fresh crunch of the salad ingredients, resulting in a harmonious blend of flavors.

Can I customize my Crunchy Thai cabbage salad?

Absolutely! Crunchy Thai cabbage salad is incredibly versatile. You can swap the cabbage for kale or shredded Brussels sprouts if you’re looking for a new texture. Additionally, feel free to add proteins like grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas to make it heartier. Experimenting with different dressings, such as a spicy peanut sauce or a citrus vinaigrette, can also create exciting variations that keep this dish fresh and appealing every time you serve it.

How should I store Crunchy Thai cabbage salad?

To store Crunchy Thai cabbage salad, place it in an airtight container and refrigerate. This salad can remain fresh for up to three days. For the best experience, enjoy it cold, as reheating may cause the fresh crunchiness to soften. If you plan to prepare it in advance, consider storing the dressing separately and adding it just before serving to maintain optimal texture and flavor.

Conclusion for Crunchy Thai cabbage salad

In summary, Crunchy Thai cabbage salad is a delightful, nutritious dish that offers a perfect balance of colors, flavors, and textures. It’s easy to prepare, making it a great choice for weeknight dinners or special gatherings. Remember, the dressing can be customized to fit your taste preferences, and with proper storage, this salad will keep your meals vibrant for days. Give it a try, and enjoy sharing this refreshing dish with friends and family!

Easy Crunchy Thai Cabbage Salad Recipe with Fresh Ingredients

This Crunchy Thai Cabbage Salad is a vibrant, delicious dish that balances fresh vegetables and a zesty dressing for a delightful meal.

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 5 minutes mins

Total Time 15 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Salads

Cuisine: Thai

Calories: 141

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

  

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Vegetables

• 3 cups cabbage, thinly sliced
• 1 large carrot, grated
• 4 pieces spring onions, thinly sliced
• ½ cup coriander leaves, chopped
• 1 piece red cayenne chilli, deseeded and sliced

Seeds

• 1 tablespoon sunflower seeds
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
• 1 tablespoon pepitas/pumpkin seeds

Dressing

• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 3 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 teaspoons light soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon tahini, hulled and runny
• ¼ cup orange juice, freshly squeezed
• 2 teaspoons coconut sugar
• 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
• 1 pinch salt

Equipment

• heavy-bottomed frying pan
• large bowl
• medium bowl
• metal spoon

Method

 

Preparation

1. Place cabbage, carrot, spring onion, coriander, and chilli in a large bowl.
2. Toast sunflower, sesame, and pumpkin seeds on medium-low heat in a heavy-bottomed frying pan. Toss to ensure the seeds don’t burn. Remove from heat when sesame seeds are starting to turn golden and seeds are aromatic.
3. Add toasted seeds to the cabbage in the bowl.
4. Add sesame oil, lemon juice, soy sauce, tahini, orange juice, coconut sugar, ginger, and salt in a medium bowl. Mix well with a metal spoon to remove all lumps and create a creamy dressing.
5. Add dressing to the salad and mix well.
6. Salad keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 141kcalCarbohydrates: 13gProtein: 4gFat: 9gSodium: 218mgFiber: 3gSugar: 6g

Notes

Feel free to customize this salad by swapping cabbage for kale or adding proteins for a heartier meal.

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