CRUNCHY PONZU CABBAGE SLAW
This vibrant Japanese-inspired Crunchy Ponzu Cabbage Slaw delivers an energising crunch in every bite. With shredded cabbage and carrots lightly tossed in umami-rich ponzu sauce and nutty sesame oil, this simple dish offers a burst of flavour without overpowering your palate. Designed as a single-serving side, it’s perfect for those seeking a quick, low-calorie addition to their lunch or dinner. The bright acidity of the ponzu balances beautifully with the sesame oil’s richness, making it an excellent pairing for grilled proteins or sushi. This uncooked recipe is ideal for busy days, minimalist meal prepping or when you’re in need of a light yet flavourful refreshment. Whether served on its own, with rice or tucked into wraps, this slaw is a crisp, satisfying option that celebrates fresh ingredients with minimal effort.
RECIPE CATEGORY
Side
SERVING SIZE
1
CUISINE
Japanese
PREPARATION/TECHNIQUES
5 Ingredients or Less, No-Cook, Prepared in Advance
OCCASION/HOLIDAY
Casual Dinner, Picnic, Spring, Summer, Back to School
SPECIAL CONSIDERATION/DIETARY CONCERNS
Vegetarian, Low Fat, Low Sodium, Low/No Sugar, Healthy, Quick & Easy, Vegan, Dairy-Free, Nut-Free
DISH TYPE
Salad
INGREDIENTS
Here is a list of ingredients for Crunchy Ponzu Cabbage Slaw:
- ¼ cup shredded cabbage
- 1 tablespoon shredded carrot
- ½ teaspoon ponzu sauce
- ¼ teaspoon sesame oil
FULL NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION
- Calories: 22 kcal
- Protein:5 g
- Carbohydrates:9 g
- Dietary Fibre:9 g
- Sugars:3 g
- Fat:2 g
- Saturated Fat:2 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Sodium: 65 mg
- Potassium: 65 mg
- Vitamin A: 76% DV
- Vitamin C: 16% DV
- Calcium: 1% DV
- Iron: 1% DV
PREPARATION
- Prepare The Vegetables: Finely shred ¼ cup of fresh cabbage and 1 tablespoon of carrot. Please place them in a small bowl.
- Mix The Dressing: In a separate bowl, combine ½ teaspoon of ponzu sauce and ¼ teaspoon of sesame oil. Whisk gently.
- Toss The Salad: Pour the dressing over the shredded vegetables. Toss well using a fork or tongs until evenly coated.
- Let It Rest: Let the mixture rest for 5–10 minutes to allow flavours to meld.
- Serve Immediately: Enjoy as a crisp, flavourful side or refrigerate it briefly before serving.
PREP TIME
5 minutes
COOKING TIME
0 minutes
TIPS
Here are some helpful tips for Crunchy Ponzu Cabbage Slaw:
- Choose Crisp Vegetables: Use freshly shredded cabbage for the best texture. Pre-shredded bags may save time but often lack crunch.
- Use A Mandoline: Use a mandolin slicer for ultra-thin and even shreds.
- Let It Marinate: Resting the slaw helps to soften the cabbage and enhances the flavour.
- Double Or Triple Easily: Multiply the ingredients for more servings without needing any extra preparation time.
- Add Garnish: Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds or chopped scallions for extra flavour and visual appeal.
VARIATIONS
- Add Protein: Top with shredded chicken, tofu or edamame for a complete light meal.
- Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of chilli flakes or a drop of sriracha to the dressing.
- Switch The Sauce: Replace ponzu with a light soy sauce and lime juice for a similar flavour profile.
- Include More Vegetables: Add thinly sliced red cabbage, daikon radish, or bell pepper to bulk it up.
- Allergy-Friendly Version: Swap sesame oil with olive oil if sesame allergies are a concern
PREPPING AND STORAGE
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. The cabbage will continue to soften slightly but still retain good texture.
- Do Not Freeze: This salad is not freezer-friendly, as the vegetables will lose their crispness upon thawing.
- Meal Prep Tip: Mix the dressing separately and store it in a small container. Combine with veggies just before eating to maintain crunch.