If you’re looking for a fresh, tangy, and slightly sweet way to elevate your coleslaw, this Asian slaw dressing recipe is the answer. It’s a simple blend of everyday ingredients that transforms a basic slaw into something vibrant and flavorful.
Perfect for weeknight dinners or a backyard barbecue, this dressing is quick to whip up and packed with zesty Asian-inspired notes.
This recipe is all about balance—salty soy sauce, sweet honey, and a kick of ginger come together in harmony. You won’t need fancy equipment or rare ingredients, just a bowl and a whisk. Let’s dive into why this dressing has become a go-to for so many home cooks.
Why People Love This Asian Slaw Dressing
This dressing wins hearts with its bold yet approachable flavors. The combination of sesame oil and rice vinegar gives it that signature Asian flair, while the honey keeps it from being too sharp. It’s versatile enough to pair with cabbage, carrots, or even shredded broccoli.
It’s also a breeze to make, taking less than 10 minutes from start to finish. People appreciate how it turns a plain veggie mix into a dish that feels special. Plus, it’s customizable—adjust the sweetness or heat to suit your taste.
Health-conscious folks love that it’s lighter than creamy dressings. With no mayo or heavy oils, it’s a guilt-free way to add flavor. And the ingredients are pantry staples, so you can whip it up anytime.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this Asian slaw dressing, gather these simple items. Most are likely already in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar (for a mild, tangy base)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (low-sodium works too)
- 2 tablespoons honey (or maple syrup for a vegan twist)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil (toasted adds extra depth)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (or any neutral oil)
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger (or 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger)
- 1 garlic clove, minced (for a subtle kick)
- 1 teaspoon sriracha (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
These amounts make about 3/4 cup of dressing, enough for a medium-sized slaw serving 4-6 people. Double it if you’re feeding a crowd or want leftovers.
Tools for the Job
You don’t need much to pull this off. A medium mixing bowl and a whisk will do the trick. If you’re grating fresh ginger, a microplane or small grater is handy.
A measuring cup and spoons are helpful for accuracy. If you want to store extra dressing, grab a jar with a tight lid. That’s it—simple and straightforward.
How to Make Asian Slaw Dressing
This recipe comes together fast, so have your ingredients ready. Follow these steps for a dressing that’s bursting with flavor. Each one is easy and builds on the last.
Step 1: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a medium bowl, pour in the rice vinegar, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Add the olive oil next. Whisk them together until they start to blend.
Step 2: Sweeten It Up
Add the honey to the bowl. Whisk again until the honey dissolves into the mixture. It might take a minute, but it’ll smooth out.
Step 3: Add Flavor Boosters
Stir in the grated ginger and minced garlic. If you’re using sriracha, add it now. Whisk everything until it’s well combined.
Step 4: Taste and Adjust
Give the dressing a quick taste. Add a pinch of salt or pepper if needed. Adjust the honey or sriracha to your liking.
Step 5: Let It Rest (Optional)
Let the dressing sit for 5-10 minutes if you have time. This helps the flavors meld together. Give it a final whisk before using.
Putting It All Together
Once your dressing is ready, toss it with your slaw mix. A classic combo is shredded cabbage, carrots, and green onions. Use about 6 cups of veggies for this amount of dressing.
Pour the dressing over the slaw and mix well. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes to soak up the flavors. Serve it fresh for the best crunch and taste.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a breakdown of the dressing’s nutrition per 2-tablespoon serving. It’s light but flavorful, making it a smart choice.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 70 |
| Total Fat | 4g |
| Saturated Fat | 0.5g |
| Sodium | 300mg |
| Carbohydrates | 8g |
| Sugars | 7g |
| Protein | 0.5g |
Note: Values are approximate and depend on exact ingredient brands. Adjust portion size as needed.
Tips for the Best Asian Slaw Dressing
Want to make this recipe even better? Here are some handy pointers to keep in mind:
- Use fresh ginger if possible—it adds a brighter, zippier taste than powdered.
- Shake extra dressing in a jar for easy storage; it keeps in the fridge for up to a week.
- Taste as you go to balance sweet, salty, and spicy to your preference.
- Double the garlic or sriracha if you love bold flavors.
- Swap honey for agave or sugar if that’s what you have on hand.
These tweaks let you tailor the dressing to your style. It’s forgiving and flexible.
Serving Suggestions
This Asian slaw dressing shines in lots of dishes. Here are a few ideas to try:
- Toss with shredded cabbage and top with sesame seeds for a classic slaw.
- Drizzle over grilled chicken or tofu for a flavorful twist.
- Use as a marinade for shrimp or pork before grilling.
- Mix with soba noodles and veggies for a cold noodle salad.
- Pair with crunchy wonton strips for extra texture.
It’s a versatile player in the kitchen. Experiment and see what you love best.
Storing Your Dressing
Got leftovers? Store the dressing in an airtight container like a mason jar. Pop it in the fridge, and it’ll stay good for 7-10 days.
Give it a quick shake or stir before using again. The oil might separate, but that’s normal. If it thickens, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes.
Don’t freeze it—the fresh flavors won’t hold up well. Make a fresh batch instead when you run out.
Why This Recipe Works
The magic of this Asian slaw dressing lies in its simplicity. It leans on a handful of ingredients that pack a punch without overwhelming your palate. The sesame oil and ginger bring that distinct Asian vibe, while the honey keeps it smooth and approachable.
It’s also a lighter alternative to heavy, creamy dressings. You get all the flavor without the extra calories. That’s why it’s a hit for casual meals or gatherings.
Plus, it’s quick—less time mixing means more time enjoying. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned cook, this recipe delivers every time.
Summary
This Asian slaw dressing recipe is your ticket to a fresh, flavorful slaw that’s ready in minutes. With rice vinegar, soy sauce, honey, and a hint of ginger, it’s a perfect balance of tangy, sweet, and savory. Toss it with your favorite veggies, and you’ve got a side dish that steals the show.
It’s easy to make, stores well, and adapts to your taste. Whether you’re spicing up a weeknight dinner or impressing at a potluck, this dressing has you covered. Give it a try—you’ll see why it’s a keeper.
FAQ
What can I use instead of rice vinegar?
Apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar works as a substitute. They’re slightly stronger, so start with a bit less and adjust.
Can I make this dressing ahead of time?
Yes, it keeps in the fridge for up to 10 days. Just shake or stir before using.
Is this dressing gluten-free?
It can be—use tamari or gluten-free soy sauce instead of regular soy sauce.
How do I make it less sweet?
Cut back on the honey by a teaspoon or two. Taste and tweak as you go.
Can I use this on something besides slaw?
Absolutely, it’s great on noodle salads, grilled meats, or as a veggie dip.
Asian Slaw Dressing Recipe
Equipment
- Medium mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Microplane or small grater (for fresh ginger, optional)
- Jar with lid (for storage, optional)
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar for a mild, tangy base
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce low-sodium works too
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup for a vegan twist
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil toasted adds extra depth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or any neutral oil
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger or 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 garlic clove minced (for a subtle kick)
- 1 teaspoon sriracha optional, for heat
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Mix the Wet Ingredients
- In a medium bowl, pour in the rice vinegar, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Add the olive oil next. Whisk them together until they start to blend.
Step 2: Sweeten It Up
- Add the honey to the bowl. Whisk again until the honey dissolves into the mixture. It might take a minute, but it’ll smooth out.
Step 3: Add Flavor Boosters
- Stir in the grated ginger and minced garlic. If you’re using sriracha, add it now. Whisk everything until it’s well combined.
Step 4: Taste and Adjust
- Give the dressing a quick taste. Add a pinch of salt or pepper if needed. Adjust the honey or sriracha to your liking.
Step 5: Let It Rest (Optional)
- Let the dressing sit for 5-10 minutes if you have time. This helps the flavors meld together. Give it a final whisk before using.
