📝 About This Recipe
This vibrant salad is a masterclass in texture, trading heavy noodles for a crisp, nutrient-dense base of shredded cabbage and colorful aromatics. Infused with the bold flavors of toasted sesame, ginger, and lime, it delivers a satisfying crunch that feels indulgent while remaining strictly keto-friendly. It’s the perfect high-protein, low-carb lunch that stays fresh for days, making it a sophisticated staple for your healthy meal prep routine.
🥗 Ingredients
The Protein
- 1.5 lbs Chicken Breast (boneless, skinless)
- 1 tablespoon Avocado Oil (for searing)
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt and Pepper (to taste)
The Crunch Base
- 4 cups Green Cabbage (finely shredded or mandoline-sliced)
- 2 cups Red Cabbage (finely shredded for color)
- 1/2 cup Carrots (julienned or matchstick cut)
- 4 stalks Green Onions (thinly sliced on the bias)
- 1/2 cup Fresh Cilantro (roughly chopped)
- 1 medium Red Bell Pepper (thinly sliced into strips)
Keto Sesame-Ginger Dressing
- 1/4 cup Rice Vinegar (unsweetened)
- 3 tablespoons Liquid Aminos (or Coconut Aminos for soy-free)
- 2 tablespoons Toasted Sesame Oil (high quality for aroma)
- 1 tablespoon Fresh Ginger (peeled and finely grated)
- 1 clove Garlic (minced into a paste)
- 1 tablespoon Creamy Almond Butter (unsweetened, helps emulsify)
- 1 tablespoon Swerve Confectioners (or preferred keto sweetener)
The Toppings
- 1/4 cup Sliced Almonds (toasted until golden)
- 1 tablespoon Black Sesame Seeds (for garnish)
👨🍳 Instructions
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1
Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
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2
Heat avocado oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, add the chicken and sear for 6-7 minutes per side until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
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3
Remove the chicken from the pan and let it rest on a cutting board for at least 5 minutes to keep the juices intact. Once cooled, shred with two forks or slice into thin bite-sized strips.
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4
In a small dry skillet over medium heat, toast the sliced almonds for 2-3 minutes, shaking the pan constantly until they are fragrant and lightly browned. Set aside.
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5
Prepare the dressing by whisking together the rice vinegar, liquid aminos, sesame oil, almond butter, grated ginger, minced garlic, and keto sweetener in a medium bowl until smooth and emulsified.
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6
In a very large mixing bowl, combine the shredded green cabbage, red cabbage, julienned carrots, and red bell pepper strips.
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7
Add the sliced green onions and chopped cilantro to the cabbage mixture, tossing lightly with your hands to distribute the colors evenly.
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8
Add the prepared chicken to the bowl with the vegetables.
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9
Drizzle the sesame-ginger dressing over the salad. Start with three-quarters of the dressing and toss thoroughly using tongs.
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10
Taste the salad; if it needs more moisture or zing, add the remaining dressing and toss again.
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11
Divide the salad into four chilled bowls or plates.
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12
Garnish each serving with a generous sprinkle of toasted almonds and black sesame seeds immediately before serving to maintain maximum crunch.
💡 Chef's Tips
Use a mandoline slicer for the cabbage to get those paper-thin, restaurant-quality ribbons that soak up the dressing perfectly. If you are meal prepping, store the dressing separately and only toss the salad right before eating to prevent the cabbage from wilting. For an extra kick of heat, add a teaspoon of Sambal Oelek or red pepper flakes to the dressing. To save time, you can use a high-quality rotisserie chicken, just ensure it isn't seasoned with sugary glazes to keep it keto. Always toast your nuts and seeds; it releases the essential oils and significantly elevates the flavor profile of the dish.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Pair with a chilled glass of sparkling water infused with lime and mint for a refreshing contrast. Serve alongside a warm bowl of egg drop soup for a complete multi-course Asian-inspired dinner. Add half an avocado on top of each serving for extra healthy fats and a creamy texture. For a non-keto guest, serve with a side of crispy wonton strips or steamed jasmine rice. Enjoy with a crisp, dry Riesling or a light Pinot Grigio if you're indulging in a glass of wine.