Salads and sides · Asian-inspired
Crunchy Coleslaw with Soy-Avocado Dressing
Crisp cabbage, carrots, herbs, and scallions tossed with a creamy avocado, lime, ginger, and soy dressing.

Tested method, practical cues
Why this crunchy coleslaw with soy-avocado dressing works
Crisp cabbage, carrots, herbs, and scallions tossed with a creamy avocado, lime, ginger, and soy dressing. This detailed method emphasizes timing, texture, and the visual cues that matter, making it approachable for a first attempt and dependable enough to repeat.
Before you start
- Keep vegetables and dressing separate until serving for maximum crunch.
- Use tamari to make the slaw gluten-free.
Complete recipe
Crunchy Coleslaw with Soy-Avocado Dressing
6 servings
Ingredients
- 5 cups finely shredded green cabbage
- 2 cups shredded red cabbage
- 2 carrots, grated
- 3 scallions, sliced
- 1/2 cup cilantro leaves
- 1 ripe avocado
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 1/2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce or tamari
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
- 2 to 4 tablespoons water
- 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds
Step-by-step instructions
- Combine green cabbage, red cabbage, carrots, scallions, and cilantro in a large bowl.
- Blend avocado, lime juice, soy sauce, ginger, sesame oil, and 2 tablespoons water until smooth.
- Add water 1 tablespoon at a time until the dressing is pourable but still creamy.
- Toss the vegetables with dressing just before serving, using enough to coat without weighing down the cabbage.
- Finish with sesame seeds and additional lime to taste.
Recipe success tips
Read the full method once before cooking, measure the ingredients first, and use the appearance and texture cues in each step alongside the stated timing.
- Keep vegetables and dressing separate until serving for maximum crunch.
- Use tamari to make the slaw gluten-free.
Make ahead, storage, and leftovers
Undressed vegetables keep for 3 days. Dressing keeps refrigerated with wrap pressed to the surface for 1 day.
Frequently asked questions
Can I make it spicy?
Blend in half a jalapeño or add chili crisp at the table.
What protein goes with it?
Serve with tofu, grilled chicken, salmon, or black beans.