This slaw slays— it brings together the crispness and nutrition of shredded cabbage, carrots, and bell peppers, along with edamame, scallions, and cilantro. There’s so much to love in this bowl of goodness: protein, fiber, plant-based omega-3 fats, vitamin C, and more! But what truly sets this dish apart is its sweet-umami peanut sauce that takes it over the top (and it’s SO easy to make!).

Crowned with chopped peanuts and sesame seeds for extra crunch and depth of flavor, this addictive coleslaw is a celebration of mouthwatering flavor that will elevate any mealtime moment.

Try my Grilled Pineapple Salad with Peanut Dressing!

(4.89 stars) 9 ratings

Thai Coleslaw with Peanut Sauce

This slaw slays— it brings together the crispness and nutrition of shredded cabbage, carrots, and bell peppers, along with edamame, scallions, and cilantro.
Servings: 6 servings (makes 6 cups)
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
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Ingredients
 

Coleslaw

  • 4 cups shredded cabbage, white and purple (or 12 to 14-ounce prepackaged coleslaw mix)
  • 1 cup shredded carrots, or matchstick carrots
  • 1 red bell pepper, cut into thin strips
  • 1 cup shell-off frozen edamame, thawed
  • 2 to 4 scallions, chopped
  • ½ cup chopped cilantro, optional
  • ½ cup peanuts, roughly chopped
  • 1 to 2 tablespoons sesame seeds, optional

Peanut Dressing

  • ⅓ cup creamy peanut butter, softened*
  • 2 tablespoons reduced sodium soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 ½ tablespoon honey
  • ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 ½ teaspoons ginger powder
  • 3 tablespoons water
  • Sriracha, optional for heat

Instructions
 

  • Add the coleslaw ingredients (except optional sesame seeds) to a large mixing bowl and toss. Set aside.
  • In a separate smaller bowl, prepare the dressing by adding all ingredients (except water) and mixing until it becomes thick and smooth. Add in the 3 tablespoons of water and stir until you create a creamy dressing consistency. If you’d like a thinner consistency, add an additional tablespoon of water. Add a squirt of Sriracha sauce for heat, if you’d like (see notes below).
  • Pour the dressing over the coleslaw and toss until the mixture is well coated in peanut sauce.  Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes before serving to meld the flavors. Before serving, give it a good stir, then taste and add a dash of salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with additional peanuts and optional sesame seeds and dig in!

Notes

* You can soften the peanut butter in the microwave for 15-30 seconds. This will make it much easier to mix with the other sauce ingredients.
• The Sriracha sauce adds a wonderful depth of flavor. If you only add one tablespoon, it will not make this coleslaw spicy, instead it just deepens the flavor. If you’re worried about heat but would like to try some, start off with just one teaspoon, then taste and decide if you’d like to add more.  You can also add more once the coleslaw is fully mixed together… just squirt some into the mix and give it a good toss.
Allergies, Food Sensitivities, or Dietary Restrictions
• For those with peanut allergies, feel free to substitute any nut or seed butter and nuts/seeds of your choice.
• If you’re following a strict vegan diet and avoiding honey, replace it with sugar or maple syrup for a similar sweetening effect.
• Soy sauce contains gluten, so if you’re following a gluten-free diet, use tamari instead. That being said, always carefully read the packaging.
Storage
• This slaw can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir well before serving leftovers.
Author: Joy Bauer, MS, RDN, CDN

Nutrition Information per serving

Serving Size: 1 cupCalories: 230Carbohydrates: 18gProtein: 10gTotal Fat: 14g— Unsaturated Fat: 11.5g— Saturated Fat: 2.5gCholesterol: 0mgSodium: 270mgFiber: 4gTotal Sugar: 10g— Natural Sugar: 5g— Added Sugar: 5g
Nutrition information is calculated using a leading industry software. That being said, brands can vary, and there may be slight fluctuations in the numbers.
I’m hoping you loved this recipe! If you made it and want to share feedback, I’d be so grateful to hear from you. Please leave a review below or tag @joybauer on Instagram!