Zesty Keto Asian Slaw

Transform your meals with this vibrant, Low Carb Asian Slaw – a sensational salad featuring a homemade ginger vinaigrette that’s bursting with flavor. Perfect for a refreshing lunch or a reliable meal prep staple, this dish promises to elevate your culinary experience beyond the ordinary.

Low Carb Asian Slaw - A fresh and vibrant salad with homemade ginger vinaigrette

Ditch the monotonous “lettuce, meat, and dressing” routine and embark on a flavorful journey with salads that genuinely excite your palate. Here, we believe that every salad should offer something uniquely delightful, and this **low carb Asian slaw recipe** is no exception. Its secret lies in a dynamic, homemade dressing so irresistibly good, you’ll want to drizzle it on everything.

Ingredients for Low Carb Asian Slaw before mixing, showing fresh vegetables

Crafting a salad that’s both healthy and exciting can be a challenge, but this **tangy Asian slaw** strikes the perfect balance. It combines crisp, fresh vegetables with an unforgettable **ginger vinaigrette**, making it an instant favorite for those seeking a **keto-friendly salad** or simply a delicious, light meal. The dressing, a harmonious blend of sweet, sour, and savory notes, truly sets this **healthy salad** apart.

Irresistible Crunch: Asian Slaw with Peanuts

Texture plays a crucial role in a truly satisfying salad, and the addition of peanuts in this **low carb Asian slaw** delivers a delightful crunch that complements the crispness of the cabbage and carrots beautifully. Beyond their satisfying texture, peanuts contribute healthy fats and a subtle earthiness that deepens the overall flavor profile of the slaw. This element transforms a simple vegetable mix into a gourmet experience.

Close-up of Low Carb Asian Slaw showing peanuts and colorful vegetables

For those managing peanut allergies, or simply looking for an alternative, fear not! This recipe is incredibly adaptable. You can easily substitute peanuts with slivered almonds, chopped pecans, or even toasted cashews for a similar textural contribution and nutty flavor. Sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds are excellent nut-free options that still provide a satisfying crunch and added nutrients.

The Ultimate Low Carb Asian Slaw Recipe

Simplicity and flavor converge in this **best Asian slaw recipe**. Its straightforward preparation means you’ll be whisking up this culinary masterpiece in no time. The true magic, however, lies in the exceptional **tangy orange ginger vinaigrette**—a recipe you’ll undoubtedly want to commit to memory and use in countless other dishes.

Bowl of Low Carb Asian Slaw with dressing being poured over it

This versatile **Asian side dish** pairs wonderfully with a variety of main courses. Serve it alongside grilled chicken, pan-seared steak, or even baked fish. The bright, citrusy notes of the dressing provide a refreshing contrast to lightly seasoned meats, elevating your entire meal. For those who appreciate a touch of heat, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes into the slaw or dressing will add a delightful kick without overpowering the delicate flavors.

Hand tossing Low Carb Asian Slaw with tongs in a large mixing bowl

One of the most appealing aspects of this **low carb Asian slaw** is its incredible adaptability. Feel free to experiment with the dressing—while the ginger vinaigrette is phenomenal, you can also opt for a creamy sesame dressing using mayo, or create your own oil and vinegar concoction. The base slaw mixture is a blank canvas for your culinary creativity.

Enhance its nutritional value and textural variety by adding an array of wholesome toppings. Here are some fantastic ideas to inspire your next batch:

  • Thinly sliced cucumbers for an added refreshing crunch.
  • Toasted sesame seeds for a nutty aroma and visual appeal.
  • Fresh green onions (scallions) for a mild oniony bite.
  • Finely shredded raw red cabbage for extra color and crispness.
  • Tiny cauliflower florets or “rice” for a low-carb volume boost.
  • Matchstick radish slices for a peppery zest.
  • Shredded Napa cabbage for a softer, milder slaw base.
  • Edamame (shelled, cooked) for protein and a vibrant green hue.
  • Fresh mint or basil leaves for an aromatic twist.

Smart Meal Prep with Asian Slaw

This **low carb Asian slaw recipe** is an absolute champion for **meal prep**. Preparing a large batch at the start of the week ensures you have healthy, delicious meals ready to go for days. To maintain optimal freshness and crispness, especially when meal prepping, it’s crucial to store the dry ingredients of the slaw separately from the dressing.

Meal prep containers with separated Low Carb Asian Slaw and dressing

Invest in food storage containers that feature separate compartments for salad dressing. These clever containers prevent the vegetables from becoming soggy by keeping them distinct from the vinaigrette until you’re ready to eat. Simply toss the salad with the dressing just before serving, and you’ll enjoy a perfectly crisp and flavorful slaw every single time.

Close-up of a meal prep container showing a separate dressing compartment

When stored properly in the refrigerator, the dry slaw mixture (cabbage, carrots, bell peppers, peanuts, cilantro) will remain fresh for approximately one week. The homemade **ginger vinaigrette**, thanks to its robust ingredients, can stay fresh for up to a month in an airtight container in the fridge. This longevity makes it incredibly convenient for spontaneous salad cravings.

While it is perfectly safe to store leftover salad after it has been mixed with the dressing, be aware that its crispness will diminish. The vegetables will gradually absorb the dressing and soften. Nonetheless, it will still be delicious and remain fresh for a few days, making it ideal for immediate consumption rather than long-term meal prep.

The Secret Weapon: Low Carb Asian Slaw Dressing

The true heart of this **low carb Asian slaw** is undeniably its dressing. This extraordinary vinaigrette masterfully balances sweet and tangy notes, creating a flavor profile that is both invigorating and deeply satisfying. It’s a remarkable fusion of ingredients that not only tantalizes the taste buds but also offers a host of health benefits.

Small bowl of orange ginger vinaigrette, highlighting its vibrant color

Each ingredient in this **homemade ginger vinaigrette** plays a vital role. Garlic, a foundational element in many Asian cuisines, is renowned for its heart-healthy properties and robust flavor. Fresh ginger is a powerhouse for digestion, known to soothe upset stomachs and add a warm, spicy kick. A touch of fresh orange or orange juice infuses the dressing with bright Vitamin C, supporting a healthy immune system, while sesame oil adds a distinctive nutty depth. Finally, rice wine vinegar contributes a delicate tang without adding excessive calories, making it a perfect component for a **keto-friendly dressing**.

Is Rice Wine Vinegar Suitable for a Keto Diet?

Yes, absolutely! Despite its origin from rice, rice wine vinegar is very much a **keto-friendly ingredient**. The fermentation process converts most of the carbohydrates into acetic acid, meaning that a typical serving (like a tablespoon) contains negligible carbohydrates—often less than 1 gram. This minimal carb content ensures it won’t disrupt your macronutrient goals on a ketogenic diet.

Ingredients for the Orange Ginger Vinaigrette laid out on a counter

If you’re following a very strict keto regimen and wish to be extra cautious, you can opt to substitute rice wine vinegar with apple cider vinegar. To replicate the subtle sweetness that rice wine vinegar often contributes, simply add a teaspoon of your favorite sugar-free sweetener, such as erythritol or stevia, to your apple cider vinegar dressing base.

Can You Use Orange Juice on a Keto Diet?

Typically, no. Conventional orange juice contains a significant amount of natural sugars and carbohydrates, making it generally unsuitable for a strict ketogenic diet. However, in this specific **low carb Asian slaw dressing**, only a very small amount is used—equivalent to the juice squeezed from a single small orange. This minimal quantity contributes a burst of essential flavor and vitamin C without significantly impacting the overall net carb count of the dish.

Fresh oranges and orange slices, with some juice, for the vinaigrette

We specifically recommend freshly squeezed orange juice for its pure flavor and to avoid any added sugars often found in processed varieties. If you are not strictly tracking sugar content and prefer convenience, a small amount of high-quality, 100% orange juice can also be used, but fresh is always best for both flavor and control over ingredients.

Detailed Low Carb Asian Slaw Recipe Guide

Ready to create this incredible **low carb Asian slaw**? Here’s a comprehensive list of all the ingredients you’ll need, followed by easy-to-follow instructions. Precise measurements are included to ensure your slaw turns out perfect every time.

Ingredients for the Slaw:

  • 12 ounces (approximately 340g) pre-packaged slaw mix (typically green cabbage, red cabbage, and carrots)
  • 1 cup shredded carrots (if not enough in the mix, or for extra sweetness)
  • 1 cup bell peppers, thinly sliced (any color works, red and yellow add vibrant hues)
  • 1/3 cup chopped peanuts (or preferred nut/seed alternative)
  • 1 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Optional Garnish: Toasted sesame seeds, chopped green onions (scallions)

Ingredients for the Orange Ginger Vinaigrette:

  • 1/4 cup olive oil (extra virgin or light, depending on preference)
  • 1/4 teaspoon minced garlic (freshly minced for best flavor)
  • 1/4 teaspoon dry ginger (or 1/2 teaspoon freshly grated ginger for a stronger kick)
  • 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice (from about 1 small orange)
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil (toasted sesame oil for richer flavor)
  • 3 tablespoons rice wine vinegar (unseasoned preferred for keto)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Slaw Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the slaw mix, additional shredded carrots, thinly sliced bell peppers, chopped peanuts, and fresh cilantro. Gently toss these ingredients together to ensure an even distribution of colors and textures.

    Mixing bowl with slaw ingredients before dressing is added

  2. Whisk the Vinaigrette: In a separate, medium-sized bowl, whisk together all the ingredients for the Orange Ginger Vinaigrette: olive oil, minced garlic, dry ginger, freshly squeezed orange juice, sesame oil, and rice wine vinegar. Whisk vigorously until all ingredients are well combined and the dressing appears emulsified.

    Separate bowl with ingredients for the orange ginger vinaigrette being whisked

  3. Combine and Toss: Pour the freshly prepared vinaigrette over the slaw mixture in the large bowl. Using tongs or your hands, toss everything thoroughly until all the vegetables are evenly coated with the vibrant dressing. Ensure every piece gets a generous coating of flavor.

  4. Serve and Garnish: Transfer the dressed slaw to a beautiful serving dish. For an extra touch of elegance and flavor, garnish with a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds and some chopped green onions just before serving. This adds visual appeal and a fresh aromatic finish.

  5. Enjoy! Your delicious and healthy **low carb Asian slaw** is now ready to be savored. Serve immediately for maximum crispness and flavor.

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Low Carb Asian Slaw Recipe Card

This low carb Asian slaw recipe is perfect for lunch and meal prep, offering a delightful blend of flavors and textures.

Course: Salad

Keyword: Low Carb Asian Slaw

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 10 minutes

Servings: 4 people

Calories: 85 kcal per serving

Ingredients

For the Slaw:

  • 12 ounces Slaw Mix
  • 1 cup Shredded Carrots
  • 1 cup Bell Peppers, sliced
  • 1/3 cup Peanuts, chopped
  • 1 cup Cilantro, Chopped

For the Orange Ginger Vinaigrette:

  • 1/4 cup Olive Oil
  • 1/4 tsp Minced Garlic
  • 1/4 tsp Dry Ginger
  • 2 tbsp Freshly squeezed orange Juice or orange juice
  • 1 tbsp Sesame Oil
  • 3 tbsp Rice Wine Vinegar

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine slaw mix, shredded carrots, bell peppers, chopped peanuts and fresh cilantro.
  2. In a separate bowl, whisk together all ingredients for the Orange Ginger Vinaigrette.
  3. Add the vinaigrette to the slaw mixture and toss well.
  4. Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.
  5. Enjoy!

Recipe Notes

Calories: 85

Net Carbs: 6 Net Carb Per Serving

The nutritional information for this recipe is calculated as a courtesy and is approximate only. We cannot guarantee the accuracy of the nutritional information for any recipes on this site.

Explore More Low-Carb Asian Delights

If you’ve fallen in love with the flavors of this refreshing **low carb Asian slaw**, you’ll be thrilled to discover these other incredible **keto Asian recipes**. They deliver all the authentic taste you crave, without compromising your low-carb lifestyle, making healthy eating both easy and exciting.

  • Low Carb Keto Egg Roll Meatballs: All the savory flavors of an egg roll, transformed into a convenient and keto-friendly meatball.
  • Easy Keto Ramen Soup: A comforting and rich ramen experience, reimagined for a low-carb diet.
  • Keto Kung Pao Chicken: A spicy, flavorful stir-fry that tastes just like your favorite takeout, but without the carbs.

These recipes demonstrate that a low-carb diet doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor or variety. Embrace the vibrant tastes of Asia while maintaining your health and wellness goals. Enjoy creating delicious, healthy meals that keep you feeling satisfied and energized!