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Cashew Crunch Salad with Sesame Dressing

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  • Author: clara
  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Salad, Side
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: Asian-Inspired

Description

This Cashew Crunch Salad is a colorful, veggie-packed dish with chopped greens, crunchy cashews, and a creamy sesame ginger dressing. It’s light, refreshing, and perfect for lunch, potlucks, or as a side to grilled protein.


Ingredients

For the Salad:

  • 2 cups shredded green cabbage

  • 2 cups shredded red cabbage

  • 1 cup shredded carrots

  • 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced

  • 3 scallions, sliced

  • 1 cup roasted cashews

  • 1/2 cup cilantro leaves, chopped

  • Optional: edamame, avocado, or crispy wonton strips

For the Sesame Dressing:

  • 1/4 cup olive oil or avocado oil

  • 3 tablespoons rice vinegar

  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari

  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil

  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey

  • 1 tablespoon fresh grated ginger

  • 1 garlic clove, minced

  • 1 tablespoon tahini or peanut butter (for creaminess)

  • Salt and pepper, to taste


Instructions

  1. Make the Dressing:
    In a jar or small bowl, whisk together all dressing ingredients until smooth and emulsified. Adjust seasoning to taste.

  2. Prep the Salad:
    In a large mixing bowl, combine cabbage, carrots, bell pepper, scallions, cashews, and cilantro. Toss to mix.

  3. Dress and Serve:
    Drizzle sesame dressing over the salad and toss well to coat. Serve immediately for max crunch or let sit 10–15 minutes for flavors to meld.


Notes

  • Make it a meal by adding grilled chicken, shrimp, tofu, or tempeh.

  • Store salad and dressing separately for meal prep—lasts up to 3 days.

  • Add a little lime juice for extra brightness.