Asian Cucumber and Chickpea Slaw with Sesame Dressing is a vibrant, refreshing dish bursting with flavor. The crispy cucumbers, crunchy chickpeas, and colorful vegetables not only create a visually stunning plate but also offer a tantalizing balance of textures. Perfect for summer picnics, casual weeknight dinners, or even as a light lunch, this slaw is sure to impress your family and friends.
Savoring this slaw is a delightful experience for your taste buds, as both the sesame dressing and fresh herbs elevate the dish to another level. In this article, you’ll discover simple steps to prepare this enticing slaw, from ingredient preparation to serving recommendations. Let’s dive in and create a dish that’s not only delicious but will have everyone asking for the recipe!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Fresh Ingredients: Enjoy the bright flavors of fresh vegetables and herbs.
- Ease of Preparation: No cooking is required, making it quick and straightforward to whip up.
- Nutrition: Packed with vitamins and protein, this slaw is a wholesome choice.
- Versatility: Serve it as a side or a light main dish—great for various occasions!
- Presentation: Its colorful appearance makes for a stunning centerpiece on your table.
Feel confident that this recipe will be a hit with everyone!
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Total time: 15 minutes
- Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 0 minutes (no cooking required)
Ingredients You’ll Need
Select the right ingredients to create this delicious dish. You’ll need:
- 1 cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup red cabbage, shredded
- 1 carrot, shredded
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup sesame dressing
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cucumber
Cucumbers add a refreshing crunch. Choose firm, bright green ones for the best flavor. Slice them thinly for easy incorporation into the slaw. If you’re looking for an alternative, zucchini can also work. Be cautious of peeling; keep the skin on for added nutrients and the lovely green color.
Chickpeas
Chickpeas provide protein and help make the dish hearty. Use canned chickpeas for convenience—just drain and rinse them well. If you’re seeking a substitute, white beans can be a great choice. Always check that the canned variety you choose is low-sodium for a healthier option.
Red Cabbage
Red cabbage brings beautiful color and a slightly sweet flavor. Simply shred it into thin pieces and add it to your bowl. If you can’t find red cabbage, green cabbage or kale can be good substitutions. Just remember to chop finely so it’s easy to eat.
Carrot
Shredded carrots add a natural sweetness and more crunch. Use a grater to get fine shreds. If you prefer, you can substitute with julienned bell peppers for a different taste and texture. Keep an eye on the size of your shreds for a consistent bite!
Green Onions
Green onions contribute a mild onion flavor that brightens the slaw. Slice them thinly, using both the white and green parts. If you prefer something milder, go for chives. Don’t forget to chop them finely for a well-distributed taste throughout the dish.
Fresh Cilantro
Cilantro adds a burst of freshness. Chop it finely and mix it in at the end to distribute its flavor. If you’re not a fan, parsley is a good alternative. Fresh herbs make a big difference, so avoid using dried herbs here for the best result.
Sesame Dressing
Sesame dressing ties all the ingredients together. You can buy it pre-made or make your own for a personal touch! If you’re looking for an alternative flavor, try a soy vinaigrette. Use a nice quality dressing to enhance the overall taste of the slaw.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Creating this slaw is a simple one-pan process that anyone can master. Follow these easy steps to whip up your dish:
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
Collect all your fresh vegetables and chickpeas. Make sure to have everything within reach to streamline your preparation.
Step 2: Slice the Cucumber
Thinly slice the cucumber using a sharp knife or mandoline for even cuts. Aim for uniform slices for better texture in every bite.
Step 3: Prepare the Chickpeas
Drain and rinse the canned chickpeas under cold water in a strainer. This step removes excess sodium and improves the flavor.
Step 4: Shred the Vegetables
Using a grater, shred the red cabbage and carrot. Add the shreds to a large bowl. Make sure to keep the shreds fine so they mix easily.
Step 5: Chop the Green Onions and Cilantro
Slice the green onions and chop the cilantro. Add these to the bowl with the other ingredients, mixing them as you go for even distribution.
Step 6: Combine with Dressing
Pour the sesame dressing over the veggies and chickpeas. Mix gently to coat everything evenly. The dressing will brighten and flavor the slaw beautifully.
Step 7: Season to Taste
Sprinkle some salt and pepper. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Remember, a little can go a long way!
How to Serve
- Presentation: Serve the slaw in a colorful bowl to showcase its beauty.
- Accompaniments: Pair it with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal.
- Portions: This dish serves 4 as a side, or 2 as a main course.
- Beverage pairing: A cold iced tea or a sparkling water with lime complements the slaw perfectly.
This delightful dish is ready to be enjoyed!
Additional Tips
- Flavor Enhancement: Consider adding a sprinkle of sesame seeds for extra crunch and flavor.
- Customization: Feel free to toss in additional veggies like bell peppers or radishes for variety.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve chilled for the best flavors, especially on warmer days.
Recipe Variations
- Spicy Slaw: Add some sliced jalapeños or a pinch of chili flakes for heat.
- Crunchy Add-Ins: Mix in some roasted peanuts or cashews for added texture.
- Asian Flare: Include some edamame and drizzle with a bit of soy sauce for a different twist.
Freezing and Storage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to freeze the slaw, it’s best done without the dressing and can last up to a month. Just make sure to thaw it in the fridge before serving.
Special Equipment
- Sharp knife
- Mandoline or grater
- Large mixing bowl
- Strainer for chickpeas
- Airtight storage container
FAQ’s
Can I use frozen ingredients?
Yes, you can use frozen chickpeas, but fresh vegetables offer the best taste and texture.
Is this dish vegan?
Absolutely! This slaw is naturally vegan, making it a great choice for everyone.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the slaw a day in advance, just add dressing right before serving to keep it fresh.
How can I customize the flavors?
You can adjust the dressing or add spices to suit your taste—experiment with different herbs as well!
Are there alternative cooking methods?
This slaw is made without cooking, but you could sauté the vegetables for a warm version if you prefer.
Conclusion
Asian Cucumber and Chickpea Slaw is a celebration of fresh flavors and vibrant textures. It’s healthy, easy to prepare, and visually appealing, making it a perfect choice for any gathering. Whether served as a side dish or a light meal, this slaw is sure to delight your guests and family. Don’t hesitate to whip it up and let the crispness shine through!
Asian Cucumber and Chickpea Slaw
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 piece cucumber, thinly sliced Choose firm, bright green cucumbers.
- 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed Use low-sodium canned chickpeas.
- 1 cup red cabbage, shredded Shred it finely for better texture.
- 1 piece carrot, shredded You can substitute with julienned bell peppers.
- 2 pieces green onions, sliced Use both white and green parts.
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped Fresh herbs work best.
- 1/4 cup sesame dressing Use pre-made or homemade dressing.
- to taste none salt and pepper Adjust seasoning as needed.
Instructions
Preparation
- Gather all your fresh vegetables and chickpeas.
- Thinly slice the cucumber using a sharp knife or mandoline.
- Drain and rinse the canned chickpeas under cold water.
- Shred the red cabbage and carrot using a grater, and add them to a large bowl.
- Slice the green onions and chop the cilantro, then add to the bowl.
- Pour the sesame dressing over the veggies and chickpeas, then mix gently.
- Sprinkle with salt and pepper, taste, and adjust seasoning if needed.
