Asian Peanut Slaw Recipe
Introduction
This Asian Peanut Slaw is a vibrant and crunchy salad packed with fresh vegetables and a creamy, tangy peanut dressing. It’s perfect as a refreshing side dish or a light meal on its own, offering a delightful balance of flavors and textures.

Ingredients
- 2.5 cups red cabbage, shredded
- 2.5 cups green cabbage, shredded
- 1-2 carrots, shredded
- 3 scallions, chopped
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves (optional)
- 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1.5 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp coconut milk (or any plant milk)
- 2 limes, juiced
- 1.5 tbsp maple syrup
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger root, grated
- 1.5 tbsp sesame seeds
- 1 pinch red pepper flakes (to taste)
- Hot sauce to taste (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, lime juice, coconut milk, soy sauce, maple syrup, grated ginger, red pepper flakes, and sesame seeds until smooth and creamy.
- Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the shredded red cabbage, green cabbage, shredded carrots, and chopped scallions.
- Step 3: Pour the peanut dressing over the vegetables. Toss everything together until the slaw is evenly coated with the dressing.
- Step 4: Adjust the seasoning to taste, adding hot sauce if desired. Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
- Step 5: Optionally, garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, black sesame seeds, or chopped salted peanuts for extra texture and flavor.
Tips & Variations
- Use crunchy peanuts or cashews for added texture instead of just sesame seeds.
- Swap coconut milk for almond or soy milk if preferred.
- Add thinly sliced bell peppers or a handful of chopped mint for a fresh twist.
- For a gluten-free version, use tamari instead of regular soy sauce.
Storage
Store the slaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Because the dressing can make the veggies soften over time, it’s best enjoyed within the first day. Stir well and serve chilled or at room temperature. If stored separately, keep the dressing and vegetables apart to maintain crispness.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make this slaw ahead of time?
You can prepare the dressing and vegetables separately in advance. Combine them just before serving to keep the slaw crisp and fresh.
Is this recipe vegan?
Yes, this slaw is naturally vegan, as it uses plant-based ingredients including coconut milk and maple syrup.
Print
Asian Peanut Slaw Recipe
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
This Asian Peanut Slaw is a vibrant, crunchy salad featuring shredded red and green cabbage, carrots, and scallions tossed in a creamy, tangy peanut dressing. Enhanced with fresh ginger, lime juice, and a touch of sweetness from maple syrup, it offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Ideal as a refreshing side dish or a light meal, this salad is quick to prepare and suitable for vegan and gluten-free diets.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 2.5 cups red cabbage, shredded
- 2.5 cups green cabbage, shredded
- 1–2 carrots, shredded
- 3 scallions, chopped
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves (optional)
Dressing
- 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1.5 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp coconut milk (or any plant milk)
- 2 limes, juiced
- 1.5 tbsp maple syrup
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger root, grated
- 1.5 tbsp sesame seeds
- 1 pinch red pepper flakes (to taste)
- Hot sauce to taste (optional)
Instructions
- Make the Peanut Dressing: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, lime juice, coconut milk, soy sauce, maple syrup, grated ginger, red pepper flakes, and sesame seeds until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Prepare the Vegetables: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded red cabbage, green cabbage, shredded carrots, and chopped scallions. Toss the vegetables to mix evenly.
- Toss the Salad: Pour the prepared peanut dressing over the shredded vegetables. Toss thoroughly to coat all the ingredients with the dressing evenly. Adjust seasoning as needed to suit your taste.
- Serve or Store: Serve the slaw immediately for the freshest texture, or store it in the refrigerator until ready to serve. The flavors will meld nicely if allowed to sit for a short time.
- Optional Garnish: Before serving, optionally garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, black sesame seeds, or salted chopped peanuts to add extra crunch and flavor.
Notes
- For a creamier dressing, add more coconut milk or peanut butter as desired.
- If you prefer some heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add hot sauce to taste.
- This slaw can be prepared a few hours ahead, but it’s best enjoyed fresh to retain crunchiness.
- Alternate nuts like cashews or almonds can be used as garnish instead of peanuts.
- Use gluten-free tamari instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free version.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Asian
Keywords: Asian peanut slaw, peanut dressing, shredded cabbage salad, vegan salad, gluten-free slaw, easy side dish

