Sesame Orange Napa Cabbage Salad

by
    

Refreshing and crunchy, this Sesame Orange Napa Cabbage Salad is a delightful blend of fresh vegetables and a tangy, citrusy dressing. Perfect as a light lunch, a side dish, or a healthy addition to any meal, this salad is easy to prepare and bursting with flavor. The combination of Napa cabbage, carrots, green onions, and almonds (if you choose to include them) adds texture and taste, while the sesame orange dressing brings everything together beautifully. Let’s dive into this vibrant recipe.

Ingredients

For the Salad:

  • 3 cups of finely shredded Napa cabbage
  • 1 carrot, grated (about 1/3 cup)
  • 2 green onions, diced
  • 2/3 cup almonds, optional (but recommended)

For the Dressing:

  • 1/3 cup fresh orange juice
  • 2 tablespoons of grapeseed or olive oil
  • 4 teaspoons rice vinegar
  • 1/4 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
  • 2 teaspoons of sesame seeds, either black or white

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Salad Ingredients
    • Thinly slice and chop the Napa cabbage and place it in a large salad bowl.
    • Grate the carrot and add it to the bowl.
    • Dice the green onions and add them to the bowl as well.
    • If using almonds, chop them coarsely and add them to the salad for a nice crunch.
  2. Make the Dressing
    • In a small bowl or a jar with a lid, combine the fresh orange juice, salad oil, rice vinegar, sesame oil, sea salt, and sesame seeds.
    • Whisk the ingredients together until well combined. If using a jar, simply put the lid on and shake well.
  3. Toss the Salad
    • Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients in the large bowl.
    • Toss everything together until the cabbage, carrots, green onions, and almonds are evenly coated with the dressing.
  4. Serve
    • Let the salad sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
    • Serve immediately as a fresh and crunchy side dish or light main course.

Conclusion

This Sesame Orange Napa Cabbage Salad is a perfect balance of crunchy vegetables and a flavorful, tangy dressing. The addition of almonds provides a delightful texture, making each bite satisfying and delicious. Simple to prepare and full of nutritious ingredients, this salad is a fantastic option for a healthy meal. Enjoy the fresh and vibrant flavors of this delightful dish!