The Ultimate Asian Wok Salad

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The Ultimate Asian Wok Salad has two dressings for your selection and will be your go-to for a quick, healthy, and satisfying meal. This vibrant salad is a crunchy and colorful medley of shredded cabbage, carrots, apples, dried cranberries, and more.

Post Date: August 16, 2024
Posted by: Donna Spencer

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As I write this, it’s the height of summer in Austin, TX, and the heat is intense. With temperatures consistently soaring above 100°F for multiple days in a row, this salad is exactly what I need. Topped with crispy noodles, it’s the perfect dish for those scorching nights when cooking feels overwhelming, or when you’re craving something light and refreshing.

When I went whole food plant based, one of the first things I learned to make was oil-free and dairy-free salad dressings. Having them in my recipe box was a game changer. I am sharing two different Asian-inspired salad dressings for this Ultimate Asian Wok Salad: 3 Ingredient Sweet Miso Dressing and 6 Ingredient Sweet Ginger Chili Lime Dressing. Both are tangy and a snap to throw together. I found I could use them as a sauce over roasted vegetable as well.

Cabbage is more than just a crunchy base for salads—it’s a nutritional powerhouse. Packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, cabbage is particularly rich in vitamin C, which boosts your immune system and supports healthy skin. It is a standout for its high fiber content which is crucial for maintaining a healthy digestive system, and reducing the risk of digestive disorders. The vibrant colors in cabbage, especially red cabbage, are a sign of its rich phytonutrient content, which further supports your body’s overall health. With so many health benefits, it’s no wonder that cabbage is a staple in many healthy, satisfying dishes like this Wholesome Wok Salad.

One of the best things about cabbage is how quick and easy it is to prepare in its raw form. A raw cabbage salad can be thrown together in just a few minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy days or when you want to whip up something nutritious without spending much time in the kitchen. Simply shred the cabbage, toss in your favorite ingredients, and add a dressing of your choice—it’s as simple as that. This versatility means you can enjoy a fresh and healthy meal in no time.

Moreover, cabbage salads are incredibly flexible, allowing you to get creative with your add-ins. Whether you’re adding fruits like apples or dried cranberries for a touch of sweetness, or tossing in nuts, seeds, or even tofu, a cabbage salad can easily be customized to suit your taste and nutritional needs. The Ultimate Asian Wok Salad adaptability makes it a perfect base for experimenting with different flavors and textures, ensuring that your meals are always exciting and satisfying.

I like options and couldn’t decide so I have included two easy, healthy, and delicious salad dressings that will become part of your regular rotation. For a delightful twist, pair it with either a 3-ingredient Sweet Miso dressing, combining miso paste, rice vinegar, and maple syrup for a savory-sweet flavor profile. You can also opt for a zesty 5-ingredient Sweet Ginger Chili Lime dressing, blending fresh ginger, chili flakes, lime juice, soy sauce, and a touch of honey for a tangy kick. These easy, quick and oil-free dressings perfectly complement the crisp textures and fresh flavors of the salad, making it a refreshing and satisfying dish for any occasion.

The Ultimate Asian Wok Salad is a salad your family will love for its bold flavors and satisfying crunch. Best of all, you didn’t have to stress or labor over it, making it a go-to favorite for any busy night.

Grocery List

Produce

cabbage mix
red onion
mushrooms

Pantry

dried cranberries
sunflower seeds
plant-based plain yogurt
white wine vinegar
agave
soy sauce or tamari
maple syrup or agave nectar
liquid smoke
smoked paprika
garlic powder

Misc

salt
pepper

Add-Ins and Substitutions

If you don’t have any cranberries on hand, use golden or regular raisins, currents, or dates. Any dried fruit will work so you can even consider dried blueberries, apricots, or apples.

The agave adds a touch of sweetness which allows for using maple syrup (which can be a bit pricy). So use the sweetener of your choice that fits your nutritional goals.

Storing

This satisfying and healthy sweet broccoli salad is best if consumed within 2 days. After 2 days the broccoli becomes limp but is still worth snacking on.

Nutrition 411

It is high in vitamin C which helps the body absorb non-heme iron, the type of iron found in plant foods. What’s more, vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant. In fact, it has been extensively researched for its potential cancer-fighting qualities.

Red cabbage contains powerful compounds called anthocyanins. They give this delicious vegetable its vibrant purple color (Trusted Source). Anthocyanins are plant pigments that belong to the flavonoid family (Trusted Source). Many studies have found a link between eating foods rich in this pigment and a reduced risk of heart disease. (Trusted source.)

Vitamin K is a collection of fat-soluble vitamins that plays many important roles in the body. These vitamins are divided into two main groups (Trusted Source): Vitamin K1 (phylloquinone): This is found primarily in plant sources. Vitamin K2 (menaquinone): This form is found in animal sources and some fermented foods. It is also produced by bacteria in the large intestine. So you can see how cabbage is a terrific source of vitamin K1, delivering 56% of the DV in a single cup (89 g) (Trusted Source). One of its main functions is to act as a cofactor for enzymes that are responsible for clotting the blood (Trusted Source). Without vitamin K, the blood would lose its ability to clot properly, increasing the risk of excessive bleeding.

Edamame is rich in protein, antioxidants, and fiber that may lower circulating cholesterol levels. Edamame plant compounds may also reduce the risk of heart disease. It is low on the glycemic index, so it’s suitable for people with type 2 diabetes. It contains around 18.5 grams of protein, which is a decent amount for a plant food. It’s also a quality protein source, providing all the essential amino acids. Several studies suggest that eating soy foods may reduce menopausal symptoms. However, the evidence is inconsistent. (Trusted source.)

Miso is a paste made from fermented soybeans often mixed with other ingredients. It’s a versatile condiment available in many varieties. It is a complete source of protein and rich in a variety of nutrients and beneficial plant compounds. However, it is also high in salt. Miso fermentation helps improve the body’s ability to digest and absorb foods. The condiment also contains probiotics that can promote gut health and digestion. Regular miso consumption may reduce the risk of certain types of cancer. However, more research is needed. Miso is considered safe for most people. Individuals on low-salt diets or blood thinners, or who have poorly functioning thyroid glands, may want to limit their intake. (Trusted source.)

Cashews are low in sugar and rich in fiber, heart-healthy fats, and plant protein. They are also a good source of copper, magnesium, and manganese which are important for energy production, brain health, immunity, and bone health. They are rich in carotenoids and polyphenols, two categories of antioxidants that may help reduce inflammation and offer protection from disease. Cashews appear to provide fewer calories than once thought and their rich fiber and protein content can help reduce hunger and increase feeling full. Nut-rich diets are consistently shown to be beneficial to heart health. Cashews appear to offer some benefits to lower blood pressure, triglycerides, and cholesterol. However, more studies are needed before strong conclusions can be made. More cashew-specific research is needed and one should always consult with medical professionals for guidance specific to your needs. (Trusted source.)

Carrots contain many nutrients, including beta-carotene and antioxidants, that may support your overall health as part of a nutrient-rich diet. They have been linked to lower cholesterol levels and improved eye health. What’s more, their carotene antioxidants have been linked to a reduced risk of cancer. The carbs consist of starch and sugars, such as sucrose and glucose. They are also a relatively good source of fiber, with one medium-sized carrot (61 g) providing (trusted source). Carrots often rank low on the glycemic index (GI), which is a measure of how quickly foods raise blood sugar after a meal. Their GI ranges from 30 to 85, while the glycemic load ranges from 2.0 to 4.25. It’s the lowest for raw carrots, and higher for cooked ones. Eating low glycemic foods is linked to (trusted source) numerous health benefits and is considered particularly beneficial for people with diabetes. (Trusted source).

Onions also contain small amounts of other vitamins and minerals such as calcium, iron, magnesium, and zinc. Onions are rich in B vitamins, including folate and vitamin B6. They a powerful antioxidant that could help protect your cells from unstable, damaging molecules called free radicals. These play key roles in metabolism, red blood cell production, and nerve function. Additionally, onions are known for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, particularly due to compounds like quercetin and sulfur-containing compounds. These properties contribute to their potential health benefits, including supporting heart health, immune function, and reducing inflammation. The nutritional content can vary slightly based on the type of onion and its freshness. Overall, onions are a nutritious addition to a balanced diet, providing flavor and health benefits with minimal calories.

The Ultimate Asian Wok Salad

Donna Spencer
The Ultimate Asian Wok Salad is your go-to for a quick, healthy, and satisfying meal. This vibrant Asian cabbage salad is a crunchy and colorful medley of shredded cabbage, carrots, apples, dried cranberries, and more, all tossed in either a tangy, Asian-inspired 3 ingredient Sweet Miso or 6 ingredient Sweet Ginger Chili Lime Dressing. Topped with crispy noodles, it's the perfect dish for those hot nights when cooking feels like too much or when you just want something light and refreshing.
No ratings yet
Prep Time 20 minutes
Course Dinner, Lunch, Main Course, Salad
Cuisine American, Asian
Servings 2 servings
Calories

Equipment

  • Medium sized bowl to toss salad
  • Small bowl or jar with lid to mix dressing

Ingredients
  

Salad

  • 6 cups coleslaw or Asian chopped salad mix
  • 1 cup shredded carrots
  • 1 cup thinly sliced celery
  • cups small dice apples 1 medium
  • ½ cup dried cranberries
  • ½ cup chopped green onions
  • ½ cup cashews or sliced/slivered almonds optional
  • 1 cup edamame optional
  • 2 cups baked tofu optional
  • ½ cup chow mein noodles or noodles from Asian salad mix – optional

3 Ingredient Sweet Miso Dressing

  • 3 tablespoons maple syrup
  • 2 tablespoon rice wine vinegar
  • 2 tablespoon miso White or Yellow
  • ½ teaspoon toasted sesame seeds optional

6 Ingredient Sweet Ginger Chili Lime Dressing

  • 2 tablespoons lime juice
  • 1 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce preferably dark duck sauce
  • 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce or Maple Syrup with a pinch of red pepper flakes
  • 2 tablespoons rice wine vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon miso White or Yellow
  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup
  • ½ teaspoon ginger finely grated optional
  • ½ teaspoon toasted sesame seeds optional

Instructions
 

Make Dressing Ahead – Refrigerate Until Ready To Use

  • Select the dressing you want to make.
  • Add all the ingredients in a large mason jar, or any type of jar with lid. Give it a whisk to breakup the miso paste.
  • Now secure lid tightly and shake to combine. Adjust seasoning to taste.
    Use immediately or store in the refrigerator until ready to use. Be sure to shake up before you use it.

Prepare Salad 20 Minutes Prior to Serving

  • Chop, slice and dice all the vegetables.
  • Defrost and microwave the edamame per directions on the package.
  • In a large mixing bowl add coleslaw or Asian chopped salad mix, shredded carrots, sliced celery, green onions, apples, dried cranberries, edamame, nuts, tofu and any other items of your choice.

Assemble the Salad

  • Drizzle dressing over the salad mix and toss to combine.
    Add chow mein noodles and toss again. Serve immediately.
  • If you aren’t serving immediately – you can add everything in a large bowl except the chow mein noodles and dressing and then add those right before you are to serve. This is a great salad to make ahead.

Notes

This is such a flexible salad and you can use any and all vegetables you like.  Anything goes here. You are in control!
It is a great dinner salad to make with the kids as it will show them how to chop, make a simple salad dressing, and see how easy and delicious it can be to eat healthy.
Keyword 3 Ingredient Dressing, 6 Ingredient Dressing, apples, cabbage, dried cranberries, Miso Dressing, salad

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