Can I make this slaw without mayonnaise?

Absolutely! For a mayo-free version, substitute with Greek yogurt for a tangy twist, or use a combination of tahini and olive oil for a completely different but equally delicious dressing base. Each alternative will create a unique flavor profile while still complementing the Asian-inspired ingredients.

How can I make this slaw more substantial as a main dish?

Transform this slaw into a satisfying main by adding protein like shredded rotisserie chicken, grilled shrimp, or thinly sliced beef. You can also incorporate heartier elements like cooked and cooled rice noodles, quinoa, or edamame. The versatile dressing pairs beautifully with these additions, creating a complete meal in one bowl.

Is there a shortcut to make this recipe even faster?

The fastest approach is using pre-made Asian dressing from the store, though the homemade version is significantly more flavorful. Another time-saver is purchasing pre-toasted nuts and pre-minced garlic and ginger. If you're truly in a rush, mix the dressing ingredients the night before and store in the refrigerator until needed.

How long will this slaw stay crunchy?

The slaw maintains its best texture for about 4-6 hours after being dressed. After that, it begins to soften but remains delicious for up to 3 days. For maximum crunch when serving later, add the chow mein noodles, toasted almonds, and fresh garnishes just before serving, even if the rest was dressed earlier.

Easy Crunchy Asian Slaw Recipe

Name: Easy Crunchy Asian Slaw Recipe
Prep time: 1 h 10 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 2 tablespoons rice wine vinegar; 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce; 1 tablespoon honey; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 2 teaspoons minced garlic; 2 teaspoons sriracha; 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger; 1 teaspoon sesame oil; 16 ounces slaw mix; 4 scallions, thinly sliced (plus more for garnish); 1/2 cup toasted sliced almonds; Crunchy canned chow mein noodles (for garnish); Sesame seeds (for garnish)

This delightful Easy Crunchy Asian Slaw is a game-changer for your meal rotation! With its perfect balance of crisp vegetables, crunchy toppings, and a tangy-sweet dressing that ties everything together, this slaw is ready in just 10 minutes (plus chilling time). It’s the ultimate make-ahead side dish that actually gets better as it sits, making it perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or as a refreshing accompaniment to grilled meats.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: From chopping board to refrigerator in just 10 minutes! This is the ultimate time-saving side dish when you need something impressive without the fuss.
Make-Ahead Friendly: This slaw actually improves with a bit of time in the refrigerator, making it perfect for meal prep or preparing before guests arrive.
Customizable: Easily adjust the heat level, add protein to make it a main dish, or swap ingredients based on what you have available.
Texture Paradise: The combination of crisp vegetables, toasted almonds, and crunchy chow mein noodles creates an irresistible texture experience that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Dressing:

Mayonnaise: Creates the creamy base of the dressing that coats each strand of slaw perfectly.
Rice wine vinegar: Adds that essential tangy brightness that cuts through the richness.
Sweet chili sauce: Brings a perfect balance of sweetness and mild heat that makes this dressing special.
Honey: Adds natural sweetness that balances the acidic and spicy elements.
Soy sauce: Provides that umami depth that gives the dressing its Asian-inspired foundation.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic adds a pungent kick that wakes up all the flavors.
Sriracha: Adds customizable heat – use more or less depending on your spice preference.
Ginger: Fresh grated ginger brings a warm, spicy note that’s essential to Asian flavors.
Sesame oil: Just a touch adds that distinctive nutty flavor that ties everything together.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

For the Slaw:

Slaw mix: A convenient time-saver that provides the perfect vegetable base.
Scallions: Adds a mild onion flavor and beautiful green color throughout the slaw.
Toasted sliced almonds: Provides wonderful crunch and nutty flavor that elevates the entire dish.
Chow mein noodles: These crunchy little additions create that satisfying textural contrast.
Sesame seeds: Adds visual appeal and a subtle nutty flavor to finish the dish.

Variations

Want to customize this slaw to make it your own? Here are some fantastic variations to try:

Protein Boost: Add shredded rotisserie chicken, grilled shrimp, or thinly sliced grilled steak to transform this side into a complete meal.
Veggie Additions: Mix in shredded red bell pepper, snow peas, edamame, or matchstick carrots for extra color, nutrients and crunch.
Fruit Twist: Add mandarin orange segments, diced mango, or thinly sliced apple for a sweet-savory balance.
Herb Infusion: Toss in fresh cilantro, mint, or Thai basil for bright, aromatic notes.
Nut Swap: Try cashews, peanuts, or sunflower seeds instead of almonds for a different nutty crunch.

How to Make Easy Crunchy Asian Slaw

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, rice wine vinegar, sweet chili sauce, honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, sriracha, freshly grated ginger, and sesame oil until smooth and well combined. The dressing should have a pourable consistency with a beautiful light orange hue.

Step 2: Combine the Slaw Ingredients

In a large bowl, toss together the slaw mix, thinly sliced scallions, and toasted sliced almonds. Make sure you have plenty of room for tossing to ensure even distribution of all ingredients.

Step 3: Dress the Slaw

Pour the prepared dressing over the slaw mixture. Using tongs or two large spoons, gently toss everything together until all components are evenly coated with the dressing. Be thorough but gentle to maintain the crispness of the vegetables.

Step 4: Chill to Blend Flavors

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least one hour. This resting time allows the flavors to meld together and the vegetables to slightly soften while still maintaining their crunch.

Step 5: Add Final Garnishes and Serve

Just before serving, sprinkle the slaw with additional sliced scallions, a generous handful of crunchy chow mein noodles, and a scattering of sesame seeds for that perfect finishing touch.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Toast Your Nuts: Always take the extra few minutes to toast your almonds in a dry skillet until golden brown – it dramatically enhances their flavor and crunch factor.
Dressing Timing: For maximum crispness, consider keeping the dressing separate until 30 minutes before serving if you’re making the slaw far in advance.
Ginger Trick: Freeze your ginger root for easier grating, and you won’t even need to peel it first!
Heat Control: If serving to a crowd with varying spice preferences, make the dressing less spicy and provide extra sriracha on the side for heat lovers.
Mixing Method: Use your hands (with gloves if you prefer) for the gentlest, most thorough mixing that won’t bruise or break the delicate vegetables.

How to Serve

This versatile Asian slaw works beautifully in so many meal contexts:

As a Side Dish:

Pair this slaw with grilled teriyaki chicken, Korean BBQ beef, or honey garlic salmon for an Asian-inspired feast.

In Sandwiches:

Pile it onto pulled pork sandwiches or use it to top fish tacos for an amazing crunch and flavor boost.

As a Base:

Use this slaw as the foundation for a Buddha bowl with your choice of protein, avocado, and a drizzle of extra sauce.

For Gatherings:

This slaw is a potluck superstar – it travels well and holds up beautifully at room temperature for a couple of hours.

Make Ahead and Storage

Preparing In Advance

You can make this slaw up to 24 hours in advance. For maximum crispness, keep the dressing separate and combine everything 30-60 minutes before serving.

Storing Leftovers

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The slaw will continue to soften but will maintain its flavor.

Refreshing Leftovers

To refresh day-old slaw, toss in a handful of fresh slaw mix and additional crunchy toppings to restore some of the lost texture.

FAQs

Can I make this slaw without mayonnaise?

Absolutely! For a mayo-free version, substitute with Greek yogurt for a tangy twist, or use a combination of tahini and olive oil for a completely different but equally delicious dressing base. Each alternative will create a unique flavor profile while still complementing the Asian-inspired ingredients.
How can I make this slaw more substantial as a main dish?

Transform this slaw into a satisfying main by adding protein like shredded rotisserie chicken, grilled shrimp, or thinly sliced beef. You can also incorporate heartier elements like cooked and cooled rice noodles, quinoa, or edamame. The versatile dressing pairs beautifully with these additions, creating a complete meal in one bowl.
Is there a shortcut to make this recipe even faster?

The fastest approach is using pre-made Asian dressing from the store, though the homemade version is significantly more flavorful. Another time-saver is purchasing pre-toasted nuts and pre-minced garlic and ginger. If you’re truly in a rush, mix the dressing ingredients the night before and store in the refrigerator until needed.
How long will this slaw stay crunchy?

The slaw maintains its best texture for about 4-6 hours after being dressed. After that, it begins to soften but remains delicious for up to 3 days. For maximum crunch when serving later, add the chow mein noodles, toasted almonds, and fresh garnishes just before serving, even if the rest was dressed earlier.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Crunchy Asian Slaw is that rare combination of impressive and effortless cooking. The vibrant flavors, satisfying textures, and make-ahead convenience make it a recipe worth adding to your regular rotation. Whether you’re serving it alongside grilled meats or enjoying it as a refreshing lunch, this slaw delivers big on flavor with minimal effort. Give it a try – your taste buds will thank you!