Hi folks! Sometimes you just need a fresh, crunchy, flavor-packed salad that comes together in minutes. This Southern Sesame Raw Cabbage Salad is exactly that—bright, tangy, creamy, and packed with toasted sesame goodness. It’s the perfect companion for everything from juicy wings to grilled meats, but honestly, I love having a batch of some kind of salad or slaw in the fridge at all times. There’s something about knowing I have a crisp, refreshing side ready to go that just makes me happy!
This delicious recipe comes from MSN food contributor Jeremy Potvin. I spotted it on my news feed, gave it a try, and now it’s part of my regular rotation—it’s just that good!
Why You’ll Love This Cabbage Salad
- Crispy, Crunchy, and Fresh – The shredded cabbage holds its crunch for days, making this a meal prep dream.
- Bold & Balanced Flavors – A creamy, tangy dressing with the nuttiness of sesame and a hint of sweetness.
- Super Versatile – Keep it simple or turn it into a heartier meal with tuna, shredded chicken, or chickpeas.
- Pairs Perfectly – A match made in heaven for wings, BBQ, grilled meats, or even as a crunchy topping for sandwiches.
- Quick & Easy – Takes just 15 minutes to throw together. No fuss, all flavor!
The Simple Ingredients
This salad is made with fridge and pantry staples.
- Cabbage – The star of the show! Green cabbage is crisp and refreshing.
- Green onions – Add a mild oniony bite.
- Mayonnaise – Use your favorite brand or go for avocado mayo for a lighter twist.
- Rice wine vinegar – Brings the perfect tangy balance.
- Dijon mustard – Adds depth and a touch of sharpness.
- Toasted sesame oil – Just a little goes a long way for that nutty aroma.
- Olive oil – Helps balance the dressing.
- Salt, black pepper, sugar – Just enough seasoning to enhance everything.
- Toasted sesame seeds – Give it a delightful crunch and deep sesame flavor.
Helpful Equipment
How to Make It
- Shred the cabbage – Slice it thinly for the best texture.
- Toast the sesame seeds – If they’re not already toasted, a quick toss in a dry pan enhances the flavor.
- Whisk up the dressing – Mayo, vinegar, mustard, oils, and seasonings come together for the perfect coating.
- Toss it all together – Pour the dressing over the cabbage, toss well, and let it sit for 10-15 minutes so the flavors meld.
- Sprinkle with sesame seeds & serve – Done!
Pro Tips & Variations
- Make it a meal! Add tuna chunks, shredded rotisserie chicken, or even chickpeas for a heartier version.
- Go spicy! A little Calabrian Chili Crisp, sriracha or chili flakes in the dressing can give it a kick.
- Switch up the seeds – Sunflower or pumpkin seeds would be a fun twist.
- Let it sit – This salad tastes even better after a few hours in the fridge.
Give this salad a try next time you pick up a head of cabbage! Watch the step-by-step video, save the recipe, and enjoy a crisp, flavorful side.
Watch the step-by-step instructions in this video!
Southern Inspired Crunchy Raw Cabbage Salad with Sesame
Ingredients
Method
- Toast the sesame seeds (if not already toasted) in a dry pan over medium heat for 2–3 minutes until golden and fragrant. Remove from pan and set aside.
- Cut the cabbage in half down the core on the bottom. Place half back in the bag it came in and store it in the fridge for a future recipe.
- Cut the half in half again. Cut out the core on each quarter. Carefully cut the cabbage as thinly as possible from tip to tail. Place the shredded cabbage in a large mixing bowl and set aside.
- Finely dice the green onions and add to the mixing bowl with the cabbage.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the mayo, rice wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, toasted sesame oil, olive oil, salt, pepper, and sugar until smooth. Add in half the sesame seeds and quickly whisk again.
- Pour the dressing over the cabbage and toss thoroughly to ensure an even coating. . This can be prepared well in advance of serving, as the cabbage will maintain its crispness for several days.
- Sprinkle the toasted sesame seeds over the top before serving.
- Let it sit for 10–15 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I get a commission if you decide to make a purchase through my links, at no cost to you. Thanks for your support!
Hungry For More Cabbage Recipes?
- Old-Fashioned Cabbage Pie
- Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry
- Crisp Cabbage, Carrot and Apple Salad
- Healthy Cabbage Casserole
- Crispy Ramen with Cabbage and Bacon
- Dijon Pork Chops with Cabbage and Apples
- Old Country Style Smothered New Cabbage
If you enjoyed this recipe and would love to see more, join me on YouTube, X, and Instagram! You can follow James T. on Instagram, @WarpSpeedWags . Please comment, like, and share. It really helps! I would love to hear from you 🙂 And if you made this recipe, how did it go for you?
3 responses to “Southern Inspired Crunchy Raw Cabbage Salad with Sesame”
This looks delicious the word “crunchy” says it all – healthy and delicious!
Thank you, John:)
Yum