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Easy Asian Cucumber and Chickpea Slaw with Sesame Dressing: A Refreshing Spring Dinner Idea

This vibrant Asian Cucumber and Chickpea Slaw with Sesame Dressing is a quick, healthy, and flavorful salad perfect for spring dinner ideas. Ready in just 25 minutes, it combines crisp vegetables, protein-rich chickpeas, and a savory sesame dressing for a refreshing side or light meal.
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Course: Lunch, Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: Asian
Keyword: Asian Cucumber and Chickpea Slaw, easy salad, healthy salad, no-cook recipe, quick salad, sesame dressing, spring dinner ideas, vegetarian salad
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 180kcal

Ingredients 

For the Slaw

  • 2 cups cucumber shredded, about 2 medium cucumbers, seeds removed for less watery texture
  • 1 cup carrots shredded, about 2 medium carrots
  • 1 can chickpeas 15 oz, drained and rinsed
  • 1/4 cup red onion thinly sliced, soak in cold water to reduce sharpness
  • 1/4 cup cilantro chopped, substitute with parsley if preferred

For the Sesame Dressing

  • 2 tbsp sesame oil toasted sesame oil recommended for richer flavor
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar adds tangy flavor
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce use low-sodium or tamari for gluten-free option
  • 1 tsp honey substitute with agave or maple syrup
  • 1 tsp ginger freshly grated for best flavor
  • 1 clove garlic minced
  • 1 tbsp sesame seeds toast lightly for nutty flavor

Instructions

  • Shred the cucumber and carrots using a grater or mandoline, then place them in a large mixing bowl.
  • Add the drained chickpeas, thinly sliced red onion, and chopped cilantro to the bowl with the shredded vegetables.
  • Whisk together sesame oil, rice vinegar, soy sauce, honey, grated ginger, and minced garlic in a small bowl until the dressing is smooth and emulsified.
  • Pour the sesame dressing over the slaw mixture and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
  • Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top as a garnish for added texture and flavor.
  • Let the Asian cucumber and chickpea slaw rest for at least 10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
  • Serve the slaw chilled as a refreshing side dish or light meal for spring dinner ideas.

Equipment

  • Large Mixing Bowl
  • Small Mixing Bowl
  • Whisk
  • Grater or Mandoline
  • Measuring Spoons and Cups

Notes

Prepare the slaw and dressing separately ahead of time and combine just before serving to prevent sogginess. For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing. Adjust honey to taste for desired sweetness.

Nutrition

Calories: 180kcal | Carbohydrates: 22g | Protein: 6g | Fat: 8g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Sodium: 250mg | Potassium: 320mg | Fiber: 5g | Sugar: 5g | Vitamin A: 4500IU | Vitamin C: 8mg | Calcium: 60mg | Iron: 2mg