Asian Cucumber and Chickpea Slaw with Sesame Dressing Recipe
A refreshing and vibrant Asian Cucumber and Chickpea Slaw tossed in a flavorful sesame dressing. This easy-to-make, nutritious salad combines crisp shredded cucumber and carrots with protein-packed chickpeas, enhanced by a tangy, sweet, and savory dressing featuring sesame oil, rice vinegar, soy sauce, honey, garlic, and ginger. Perfect as a light lunch or a side dish.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Asian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables and Legumes
- 2 cups shredded cucumber
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
Dressing
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1 clove garlic, minced
Garnish
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
Instructions
- Prepare the Vegetables: Shred the cucumber and carrots using a grater or mandoline for uniform thin strips, then place them in a large mixing bowl to create the base of the slaw.
- Add Additional Ingredients: To the bowl with shredded vegetables, add the drained and rinsed chickpeas, thinly sliced red onion, and chopped cilantro, combining all the fresh components of the slaw.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together sesame oil, rice vinegar, soy sauce, honey, grated ginger, and minced garlic until the dressing is well emulsified and flavorful.
- Toss the Slaw: Pour the sesame dressing over the vegetable and chickpea mixture, then gently toss everything together to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
- Garnish: Sprinkle sesame seeds over the top of the slaw evenly for added texture and nutty flavor.
- Rest and Marinate: Let the slaw sit for at least 10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld and the dressing to penetrate the ingredients.
- Serve: Chill the slaw if desired, then serve as a fresh, healthy side or a light meal.
Notes
- This slaw can be served chilled or at room temperature depending on your preference.
- To make it vegan, substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar.
- For a gluten-free option, ensure the soy sauce is gluten-free or use tamari.
- Can be prepared a few hours in advance and stored covered in the refrigerator to enhance flavor melding.
- Adding crushed red pepper flakes can provide a spicy kick if desired.
Keywords: Asian cucumber slaw, chickpea salad, sesame dressing, vegetarian salad, no-cook salad, healthy side dish, Asian cuisine
