Why Make This Recipe
Classic Asian coleslaw dressing is a delicious blend of flavors that can elevate any simple slaw. This dressing adds a sweet and tangy taste with a hint of spice, making your salad exciting and vibrant. It is quick and easy to make, and the ingredients are often found in most kitchens.
How to Make Classic Asian Coleslaw Dressing
Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons honey or sugar
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Directions:
- In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey, ginger, and garlic until well combined.
- Stir in sesame seeds and red pepper flakes if using.
- Pour the dressing over your coleslaw and toss to coat.
- Let it sit for a few minutes for the flavors to meld before serving.
How to Serve Classic Asian Coleslaw Dressing
You can serve this dressing over a bed of crunchy coleslaw mix. It works great with shredded cabbage, carrots, and even some chopped green onions. Pair it with your favorite proteins like grilled chicken, tofu, or shrimp for a complete meal.
How to Store Classic Asian Coleslaw Dressing
If you have leftover dressing, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for about a week. Give it a good shake or stir before using again, as the ingredients may separate.
Tips to Make Classic Asian Coleslaw Dressing
- Use fresh ginger for the best flavor, but if you don’t have it, ground ginger can work in a pinch.
- Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less honey or sugar according to your taste.
- If you like it spicy, increase the amount of red pepper flakes.
Variation
You can add a splash of lime juice to give the dressing a citrusy twist. If you prefer a creamier dressing, mix in some mayonnaise or Greek yogurt.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of vinegar?
Yes, you can use apple cider vinegar or white vinegar, but the taste will be slightly different.
2. Is this dressing gluten-free?
Soy sauce contains gluten, but you can use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari as a substitute.
3. How long does it take to make this dressing?
It only takes about 5 to 10 minutes to prepare the dressing.
4. Can I make this dressing ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it a day or two in advance and store it in the fridge until you are ready to use it.

Classic Asian Coleslaw Dressing
Ingredients
For the dressing
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar Can substitute with apple cider vinegar or white vinegar.
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons honey or sugar Adjust sweetness according to taste.
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced Fresh ginger provides the best flavor.
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) Increase for a spicier dressing.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey, ginger, and garlic until well combined.
- Stir in sesame seeds and red pepper flakes if using.
- Pour the dressing over your coleslaw and toss to coat.
- Let it sit for a few minutes for the flavors to meld before serving.
