Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad

Fresh and delicious, the Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad is a vibrant dish filled with crunchy vegetables and juicy chicken. This salad is perfect for any occasion, whether you need a quick lunch or a satisfying dinner. Its standout quality lies in the flavorful sesame ginger dressing that ties all the ingredients together, making it a delightful meal for everyone.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This recipe takes only an hour to make from start to finish, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of fresh veggies and a zesty sesame ginger dressing creates an explosion of flavor in every bite.
• Customizable Ingredients: Adjust the salad with your favorite vegetables or proteins to suit your taste preferences.
• Nutrient-Rich: Packed with lean protein and vibrant veggies, this salad is both healthy and satisfying.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make it ahead of time for lunches throughout the week, as it holds up well in the fridge.

Tools and Preparation

To make the Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad, you’ll need some essential tools that will help streamline the preparation process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Chef’s knife
• Cutting board
• Large mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Baking sheet or grill

Importance of Each Tool

• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife ensures clean cuts, making it easier to chop vegetables evenly for better presentation and texture.
• Large mixing bowl: Provides ample space to toss all ingredients together without spilling, ensuring even distribution of flavors.
• Whisk: Perfect for blending dressings smoothly; a whisk helps combine ingredients like oil, vinegar, and seasonings seamlessly.

Ingredients

Fresh and delicious sesame chicken salad packed with bright, crunchy vegetables, juicy chicken, and a flavorful sesame ginger dressing. This flavorful sesame chicken salad is easy to customize with your fav veggies and proteins for the perfect healthy lunch or dinner during the week!

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

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

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing

Make your sesame ginger dressing according to your chosen recipe. Set it aside so that flavors can meld together while you assemble your salad.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

In a large mixing bowl, combine:
* Green cabbage
* Red cabbage
* Green onion
* Cilantro
* Carrots
* Bell pepper
* Jalapeno

Pour the prepared dressing over the salad mixture and toss everything together until well coated. Cover this mixture while you cook your marinated chicken.

Step 4: Serve Your Salad

Transfer your mixed salad into a large platter. Garnish with:
* Toasted sliced almonds
* Roasted cashews
* Extra cilantro
* A sprinkle of sesame seeds
* Jalapeno slices
Add additional chopped green onion if desired. For an extra crunch, consider topping with crispy wonton strips. Enjoy! This recipe serves 4 as a hearty main dish or 6 as a delightful side dish.

How to Serve Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad

This vibrant salad is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways. Whether you want it as a main course or a side, there are numerous serving options to enhance its flavor and presentation.

As a Main Dish

• Serve it in a large bowl for family-style dining or plate individual servings for guests.
• Garnish with extra sesame seeds and chopped green onions for an appealing finish.

With Crispy Wonton Strips

• Add crispy wonton strips on top just before serving for an added crunch.
• This option provides a nice textural contrast to the fresh vegetables.

As a Side Dish

• Pair this salad with grilled chicken or beef for a satisfying meal.
• It complements rich dishes by adding lightness and freshness.

For Meal Prep

• Divide the salad into jars for easy lunch options throughout the week.
• Keep the dressing separate until ready to eat to maintain crispness.

How to Perfect Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad

Achieving the perfect Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad involves careful preparation and attention to detail. Here are some tips to elevate your dish:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables enhance flavor and texture, making your salad more enjoyable.
• Marinate Properly: Allow the chicken to marinate longer for deeper flavor absorption.
• Customize Vegetables: Feel free to add or substitute your favorite veggies like bell peppers, cucumbers, or snap peas.
• Chill Before Serving: Letting the salad sit in the fridge for about 30 minutes allows flavors to meld together beautifully.
• Adjust Dressing: Taste and adjust the sesame ginger dressing according to your preference, adding more sweetness or acidity as needed.
• Add Protein Variations: For variety, use grilled turkey or beef instead of chicken when desired.

Best Side Dishes for Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad

Pairing side dishes with this flavorful salad can make your meal even more delightful. Here are some excellent options:

1. Grilled Vegetable Skewers: Colorful veggies brushed with olive oil and grilled until tender complement the freshness of the salad.
2. Brown Rice: A simple side of brown rice adds heartiness and pairs well with Asian-inspired flavors.
3. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with lemon dressing provides additional protein and fiber, enhancing nutritional value.
4. Steamed Edamame: Lightly salted edamame makes for a protein-packed snack that goes well alongside any salad.
5. Baked Sweet Potato Fries: The sweetness of baked sweet potatoes contrasts nicely with the savory elements of the salad.
6. Crispy Roasted Chickpeas: These crunchy snacks offer a great source of protein and fiber while adding texture to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Make sure to avoid these common mistakes while preparing your Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad for the best results.

• Skipping the marinade: Not marinating the chicken can lead to bland flavors. Always take time to let the chicken soak in the marinade for enhanced taste.
• Using dull knives: A dull knife can make chopping vegetables more difficult and dangerous. Ensure your knives are sharp for clean cuts and quicker prep.
• Neglecting to wash vegetables: Failing to wash your vegetables can introduce dirt and pesticides into your salad. Rinse all produce thoroughly before use.
• Overdressing the salad: Adding too much dressing can overwhelm the fresh flavors. Start with a small amount and add more as needed.
• Ignoring texture: A salad should have a variety of textures. Incorporate crunchy elements like nuts or crispy wonton strips for a delightful contrast.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover salad in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
• Keep dressing separate until ready to serve for optimal freshness.

Freezing Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad

• Freezing is not recommended due to the texture of fresh vegetables.
• If you must freeze, consider freezing just the chicken separately.

Reheating Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover salad with foil and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Warm over low heat in a skillet, stirring frequently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

What is Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad?

Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad is a fresh salad featuring grilled chicken, colorful veggies, and a sesame ginger dressing that brings everything together.

Can I customize my Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad?

Absolutely! You can add your favorite vegetables or substitute proteins like turkey or beef based on your preference.

How long does Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad last?

When stored properly in the refrigerator, this salad will stay fresh for up to 3 days.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad is perfect for meal prep. Just keep the dressing separate until serving.

Final Thoughts

The Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad is not only delicious but also versatile. Its bright colors and crunch make it appealing for any meal. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients and enjoy this refreshing dish any time!

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Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad

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• Author: Lara
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Enjoy a colorful and nutritious Sesame Chicken Cabbage Crunch Salad that bursts with flavor in every bite. This vibrant dish features tender grilled chicken paired with a medley of crunchy vegetables, all enveloped in a zesty sesame ginger dressing. Perfect for lunch or dinner, this salad is not only satisfying but also incredibly easy to prepare. Customize it with your favorite veggies or proteins for a meal that’s tailored to your taste! With its fresh ingredients and delightful textures, this salad is sure to become a staple in your healthy recipe rotation.

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Ingredients

• Grilled chicken
• Shredded green cabbage
• Shredded red cabbage
• Diced green onion
• Fresh cilantro
• Shredded carrots
• Red bell pepper
• Jalapeno
• Sesame ginger dressing
• Toasted sliced almonds
• Roasted cashew halves
• Sesame seeds
• Extra cilantro
• Extra green onion
• A few jalapeno slices
• Optional: Crispy wonton strips

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Instructions

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

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Grilling/Mixing
• Cuisine: Asian-Inspired

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 plate (300g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 7g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 8g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 70mg