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Sesame Orange Napa Cabbage Salad in a glass bowl with shredded vegetables, mandarin oranges, and sesame seeds.
Layla

Sesame Orange Napa Cabbage Salad

Crisp napa cabbage meets bright citrus and nutty sesame in this refreshing salad that comes together in minutes.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: American, Asian-Inspired
Calories: 142
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 1 small head napa cabbage about 1.5 lbs, cored and thinly sliced
  • 2 medium carrots julienned or shaved into ribbons with a peeler
  • 3 scallions thinly sliced, white and light green parts only
  • 0.5 cup fresh cilantro roughly chopped, leaves and tender stems
  • 2 tbsp toasted sesame seeds divided
For the Dressing
  • 0.25 cup fresh orange juice from about 1 large orange, freshly squeezed
  • 1 tsp orange zest finely grated
  • 2 tbsp toasted sesame oil
  • 1.5 tbsp rice vinegar unseasoned
  • 1 tsp soy sauce or tamari for gluten-free
  • 1 tsp honey or maple syrup
  • 1 tsp fresh ginger finely grated

Equipment

  • Large Mixing Bowl
  • Small bowl or jar (for dressing)
  • Sharp knife or mandoline
  • Microplane or fine grater

Method
 

Prep the Vegetables
  1. Cut the napa cabbage in half lengthwise, remove the core, then slice crosswise into thin ribbons about 1/4 inch wide. Place in a large mixing bowl. You should have about 8 cups loosely packed.
  2. Peel the carrots and cut into thin matchsticks or use a vegetable peeler to create long ribbons. Add to the bowl with the cabbage along with the sliced scallions and chopped cilantro.
Make the Dressing
  1. In a small bowl, whisk together the orange juice, orange zest, sesame oil, rice vinegar, soy sauce, honey, and grated ginger until well combined. Taste and adjust - add more vinegar for brightness or honey for sweetness.
Assemble and Serve
  1. Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss thoroughly with your hands or tongs, making sure every ribbon of cabbage gets coated. The cabbage will slightly wilt and soften from the salt and acid - this is what you want.
  2. Transfer to a serving platter or bowl, sprinkle with 1 tablespoon of the toasted sesame seeds, and serve immediately. Pass the remaining sesame seeds at the table for extra crunch.

Notes

For the best texture, dress the salad right before serving - napa cabbage holds up better than leaf lettuce but will still soften over time. If you need to prep ahead, keep the vegetables and dressing separate and combine just before eating. This salad pairs beautifully with grilled salmon, teriyaki chicken, or as a fresh counterpoint to rich braised short ribs. For extra protein, top with shredded rotisserie chicken or crispy baked tofu.