A flavorful twist on the typical slaw, this Spicy Asian Coleslaw is creamy, tangy and slightly spicy, and inspired by classic Asian flavors.

I always used to think I didn’t like coleslaw. But as it turns out, coleslaw recipes can actually be quite flavorful! I’ve come up with a couple variations, like my Easy Cabbage Coleslaw with Honey Lime Dressing recipe or Ramen Broccoli Slaw. Traditional coleslaws are typically overloaded in mayo and sugar that you don’t actually taste the ingredients. I think it’s time to change that with this Spicy Asian Coleslaw.
Since cabbage can be a little boring on its own, I decided to take inspiration from a spicy tuna sushi roll and turn it into a creamy, tangy, and slightly spicy vinaigrette. Full of fresh ginger, toasted sesame oil, and bright rice vinegar, each bite is loaded in classic Asian flavors. Ideal for a healthy side dish or as an entree salad with grilled shrimp or thai basil chicken, your whole family will love this new spin on coleslaw!
Why You’ll Love This Coleslaw
- You can easily customize how spicy it is by adjusting the ingredients, and including or omitting the sriracha.
- It’s extremely versatile, and can be served with all sorts of things like chicken, beef, or fish!
- You can make it in advance, and enjoy the leftovers for days.
Ingredients

- Cabbage: You can grab a bag of pre-chopped cabbage, or just shred your own mix of purple and green cabbage.
- Carrots: Shredded carrots add color, crunch, and some sweetness to the mix.
- Green onion: Also called scallions, it adds mild onion flavor to the slaw.
- Spicy mayo dressing: While you can use a store-bought dressing, I like to mix rice wine vinegar, soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and sesame oil with some mayo to may a spicy Asian infused dressing.
How to Make Spicy Asian Coleslaw

Step 1. Whisk up your spicy mayo dressing in a small bowl.

Step 2. Shred your cabbage and carrots, and mince your scallions.

Step 3. If you’re feeling up for it, I also like to toast sliced almonds to throw on top of the salad. It adds a wonderful cruch!

Step 4. Toss the shredded veggies and scallions in a large bowl with the spicy mayo dressing until evenly combined.

Top with the toasted almonds, serve, and enjoy your Spicy Asian Coleslaw!
Frequently Asked Questions
Add fresh ingredients, like fresh herbs or veggies, or spice up the dressing by adding sriracha, chili flakes, or other spices.
There is no difference! Slaw is just the shortened name for coleslaw.
Cabbage and carrots are relatively hardy, but you don’t want it to get too soggy, so you can make this Spicy Asian Coleslaw a day in advance.

More Asian Inspired Dishes
- Baked Teriyaki Chicken Thighs
- Vietnamese Beef Salad
- Asian Chicken Chopped Salad
- Sesame Chicken and Green Bean Stir-Fry
- Sweet and Spicy Baked Salmon
- Asparagus Pasta Salad
Eat It, Like It, Share It!
Did you try this slaw and love it? The next time you make it, snap a picture and share it to your socials! Tag @thelemonbowl and #thelemonbowl so we can admire and share your dish.
I love the flavor and kick this slaw gives, but it can be mild enough your kids will still eat it. The whole family is sure to love my Spicy Asian Coleslaw.
Your fork is waiting.

Spicy Asian Coleslaw
Ingredients
Instructions
- Whisk together the Spicy Mayo Dressing in the bottom of a large bowl: rice vinegar through sesame oil.1/4 cup rice wine vinegar, 2 tablespoons soy sauce, 2 tablespoons mayonaisse, 1 tablespoon Sriracha, 1 tablespoon grated ginger, 1 clove garlic – grated, 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil, salt and pepper to taste
- Add both types of cabbage and carrots to the bowl and toss to coat with the dressing. Check for seasoning and add salt and pepper to taste.1 cup red cabbage, 1 cup carrots, 1 cup scallions, 2 cups green cabbage
- Toss in the scallions before serving. Garnish with toasted almonds if you wish.toasted sliced almonds
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