This 5-Ingredient Asian-Inspired Kohlrabi & Cabbage Slaw comes together in just 30 minutes! With a zesty chili-peanut dressing, crisp kohlrabi, cabbage, and fresh cilantro, it’s a quick, flavorful, and healthy side dish perfect for weeknight meals.
5-Ingredient Asian-Inspired Kohlrabi & Cabbage Slaw (Ready in 30 Minutes!)
I’m bringing you another 5-Ingredient Meal! After how much you loved the 5-Ingredient Steak Salad with Avocado and the Caesar Pasta Salad, I couldn’t wait to share a fresh, crunchy side dish that’s just as easy to toss together.
This Asian-inspired Kohlrabi & Cabbage Slaw is vibrant, flavorful, and comes together in about 30 minutes. A few simple ingredients — kohlrabi, red cabbage, lime, and a peanut sauce (either store-bought or use my quick homemade version included with the recipe) — create a crunchy, tangy, and slightly spicy slaw that pairs perfectly with just about any weeknight dinner.
What I love most is that it’s a complete flavor punch with almost no effort: nutty, zesty, and refreshing, with a hint of heat from chili and the brightness of lime. It's the perfect side dish to an Asian style meal. Just throw together a stir fry or grill some teriyaki steak or chicken and you'll have a healthy side dish that makes weeknight cooking feel effortless.
Enjoy!
What Ingredients Do I Need?
- Kohlrabi: Crisp and slightly sweet, this veggie gives the slaw a satisfying crunch. Cut into matchsticks for easy tossing.
- Red Cabbage: Thinly sliced for color, crunch, and a tangy contrast to the peanut sauce.
- Lime: Zest and juice add bright acidity to balance the nutty peanut flavor.
- Peanut Sauce: Can be store-bought or my easy homemade version; adds richness, creaminess, and a hint of spice.
- Salt & Pepper: Simple seasoning that brings all the flavors together.
- Optional Garnish — Cilantro: Adds freshness and a pop of green for visual appeal.
Substitutions & Variations
Simple Ingredient Swaps
- Kohlrabi: Substitute with jicama, cucumber, or carrots for similar crunch.
- Red Cabbage: Use Napa cabbage, green cabbage, or even a bagged slaw mix.
- Peanut Sauce: Try almond butter or cashew butter sauce as a nutty alternative.
Variations
- Crunchy Thai-Style Slaw: Add thinly sliced bell peppers and a sprinkle of toasted peanuts for extra texture and flavor.
- Protein Boost Slaw: Toss in cooked shrimp, shredded chicken, or edamame to turn it into a full meal.
Kitchen Tips & Notes
- Toss Just Before Serving: Keeps the kohlrabi and cabbage crisp.
- Prep Ahead: Slice the vegetables and make the peanut sauce ahead of time. Add lime and toss only when ready to serve.
- Adjust Spice: Add sriracha or chili sauce to the peanut dressing for more heat.
- Storage: Best eaten immediately, but will keep in the fridge for a day in an airtight container.
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