Name: Sesame Orange Napa Cabbage: 5 Reasons to Love This Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 1 head Napa cabbage (finely shredded); 1 medium Carrot (julienned or grated); 2 stalks Green onions (thinly sliced); 1 large Orange (sliced for garnish); 1 large Fresh orange juice (from about 1 orange); 1 teaspoon Orange zest; 2 tablespoons Rice vinegar; 2 tablespoons Low-sodium soy sauce; 1 tablespoon Honey (or maple syrup); 2 tablespoons Toasted sesame oil; 2 tablespoons Neutral oil (grapeseed, canola, or light olive oil); to taste Salt; to taste Pepper; 1 tablespoon Black sesame seeds (for garnish); 1 tablespoon White sesame seeds (for garnish)

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Sesame Orange Napa Cabbage is a refreshing and colorful dish that can elevate any meal. This delightful salad combines the crispness of Napa cabbage with the sweet and tangy notes of fresh orange, making it an irresistible choice for health-conscious eaters. Perfect for a light lunch or a vibrant side dish, it’s packed with nutrients and flavor. Let’s dive into why you’ll love this salad!

Why You’ll Love This Sesame Orange Napa Cabbage

This dish offers numerous benefits that make it a must-try. First, the vibrant colors of this Sesame Orange Salad make it visually appealing, perfect for impressing guests. Second, it’s a Napa Cabbage Recipe that’s quick to prepare, taking only about 20 minutes from start to finish. Third, the combination of flavors creates a delightful Orange-Sesame Slaw that tantalizes your taste buds. Fourth, it is a Healthy Napa Cabbage Side Dish that is low in calories yet high in vitamins. Fifth, this salad is vegan-friendly, making it suitable for various diets. Lastly, it can easily be customized with your favorite ingredients, making it a versatile addition to your meal rotation. With its Napa Cabbage with Sesame Dressing, this salad is a tasty fusion of flavors.

Ingredients for Sesame Orange Napa Cabbage

Gather these items:

1 head Napa cabbage (finely shredded)
1 medium Carrot (julienned or grated)
2 stalks Green onions (thinly sliced)
1 large Orange (sliced for garnish)
1 large Fresh orange juice (from about 1 orange)
1 teaspoon Orange zest
2 tablespoons Rice vinegar
2 tablespoons Low-sodium soy sauce
1 tablespoon Honey (or maple syrup)
2 tablespoons Toasted sesame oil
2 tablespoons Neutral oil (grapeseed, canola, or light olive oil)
to taste Salt
to taste Pepper
1 tablespoon Black sesame seeds (for garnish)
1 tablespoon White sesame seeds (for garnish)

How to Make Sesame Orange Napa Cabbage Step-by-Step

Step 1: Start by washing the Napa cabbage, removing any outer leaves that are wilted. Cut it in half, remove the core, and shred into fine pieces.
Step 2: Peel and julienne or grate the carrot, then slice the green onions thinly. Combine all the vegetables in a large salad bowl.
Step 3: In a small mixing bowl, whisk together fresh orange juice, orange zest, rice vinegar, soy sauce, honey, toasted sesame oil, and neutral oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste and whisk until everything is perfectly blended.
Step 4: Pour the dressing over the cabbage and vegetable mixture. Gently toss to ensure everything is well coated. Let the salad sit for at least 10 minutes to allow the flavors to blend beautifully.
Step 5: To finish, sprinkle sesame seeds over the top for added texture, and garnish with orange slices. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours to enhance its flavor.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Sesame Orange Napa Cabbage

Keep these in mind:

Use fresh, crunchy Napa cabbage for the best texture.
Adjust the sweetness of the dressing by modifying the amount of honey or maple syrup.
For added flavor, let the salad sit longer than 10 minutes before serving.
Mix in protein sources like chickpeas for a more filling meal.
This recipe can be prepared in advance for meal prep, saving you time during busy weekdays.

Best Ways to Serve Sesame Orange Napa Cabbage

Here are some ideas to enhance your meal:

Serve alongside grilled chicken or fish for a balanced dinner.
Pair with rice or quinoa for a wholesome vegan meal.
Enjoy as a refreshing lunch option during warm months.

How to Store and Reheat Sesame Orange Napa Cabbage

To store this Sesame Orange Vegetable Dish, keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last for up to 24 hours. For meal prep purposes, you can make it a day in advance and let the flavors meld together before serving. It’s best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, so no reheating is necessary.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sesame Orange Napa Cabbage

What’s the secret to perfect Sesame Orange Napa Cabbage?

The secret lies in the freshness of the ingredients and allowing the salad to sit for a while to blend the flavors. The Sesame Dressing for Napa Cabbage should be balanced in sweetness and acidity to enhance the overall taste.

Can I make Sesame Orange Napa Cabbage ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare this salad up to a day in advance. The flavors will deepen, making it even more delicious. Just be sure to store it in the fridge.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Sesame Orange Napa Cabbage?

To avoid sogginess, don’t dress the salad too early. Keep the dressing separate until just before serving, especially if you plan to make it in advance.

Variations of Sesame Orange Napa Cabbage You Can Try

Explore these variations:

Mix in sliced bell peppers for added crunch and color.
Add sliced almonds or walnuts for a nutty flavor.
Incorporate grilled shrimp or tofu for a protein boost.
Experiment with different citrus fruits like grapefruit or lime for a unique twist.

For more healthy recipes, check out Healthy Greek Chicken Bowls or Chickpea Avocado Salad. You can also explore vegan options for a delightful twist!

Sesame Orange Napa Cabbage: 5 Reasons to Love This Salad

Author: basmer
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegan

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Description

Sesame Orange Napa Cabbage Salad is a refreshing and colorful dish, perfect for any occasion.

Instructions

Start by washing the Napa cabbage, removing any outer leaves that are wilted. Cut it in half, remove the core, and shred into fine pieces.
Peel and julienne or grate the carrot, then slice the green onions thinly. Combine all the vegetables in a large salad bowl.
In a small mixing bowl, whisk together fresh orange juice, orange zest, rice vinegar, soy sauce, honey, toasted sesame oil, and neutral oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste and whisk until everything is perfectly blended.
Pour the dressing over the cabbage and vegetable mixture. Gently toss to ensure everything is well coated. Let the salad sit for at least 10 minutes to allow the flavors to blend beautifully.
To finish, sprinkle sesame seeds over the top for added texture, and garnish with orange slices. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours to enhance its flavor.