
This tangy carrot, cabbage & onion salad is ready in just 20 minutes and features a zesty sesame dressing for a healthy, crunchy side dish. It combines shredded fresh vegetables with toasted sesame seeds and a bright rice vinegar dressing. It is the perfect make-ahead option for summer barbecues, quick weeknight dinners, or meal prep lunches.
This salad was inspired by the crisp, refreshing slaws served alongside grilled mains at family gatherings. The combination of sweet carrots, peppery cabbage, and sharp onions mellows beautifully after a quick marination in the tangy dressing. It has become a reliable staple in my kitchen whenever I need a fast, colorful side dish that pairs effortlessly with almost any main course.
Prepare the vegetables by shredding the green cabbage, grating the carrots on a box grater, and thinly slicing the red onion. Combine all three vegetables in a large mixing bowl.
Place the sesame seeds in a small, dry skillet over medium-low heat. Toast them for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring constantly, until they are golden and fragrant, then transfer to a small plate to cool.
In a medium glass bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, extra virgin olive oil, toasted sesame oil, honey, sea salt, and black pepper until the dressing is completely emulsified.
Pour the whisked sesame dressing over the shredded cabbage, grated carrots, and sliced onions, then toss thoroughly to ensure the vegetables are evenly coated.
Add the toasted sesame seeds to the bowl and toss gently one last time to distribute them throughout the salad.
Cover the bowl with wrap and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes before serving to allow the tangy flavors to meld and slightly soften the crunchy vegetables.





