Cabbage Sesame Mayo Salad
Cabbage Sesame Mayo Salad (Easy Japanese Side Dish)
When you need a quick, refreshing side dish that comes together in minutes, this cabbage sesame mayo salad is one of the easiest recipes to make.
This simple Japanese-inspired cabbage salad uses just a handful of pantry ingredients—mayonnaise, sesame oil, and chuka seasoning—to create a creamy, slightly nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with rice, karaage, or grilled fish.
It’s light, crunchy, and incredibly satisfying—plus, it’s a great way to use up half a head of cabbage sitting in your fridge.
If you’re looking for a quick Japanese cabbage side dish, this is one you’ll make again and again.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ready in just 10 minutes
Uses simple pantry ingredients
Kid-friendly and mild flavor
Perfect side dish for Japanese meals
Great for meal prep
Tips for the Best Cabbage Salad
Slice cabbage thinly for the best texture
Don’t skip salting—it enhances flavor and softens the cabbage
Adjust mayo to your preferred creaminess
Add a splash of rice vinegar for extra brightness
RECIPE
Servings: 3-4
Time: 10 min
Ingredients:
1/2 head of cabbage
salt
2 tbsp japanese mayonnaise
1 tbsp sesame oil
1 tsp torigara powder (japanese chicken stock powder)
3 tbsp sesame seeds
chopped green onions
Instructions:
Prep the cabbage
Rinse the cabbage and remove any tough outer leaves.
Cut it in half, remove the core, and finely shred using a knife or slicer.
Salt and soften
Place the shredded cabbage in a bowl and sprinkle with a pinch of salt.
Massage gently with your hands for a few minutes until slightly wilted.
Squeeze out the excess water and transfer the cabbage to a clean bowl.
Make the dressing
Add ground sesame seeds, torigara powder, mayonnaise, and sesame oil
Toss and finish
Mix well until evenly coated.
Sprinkle more sesame seeds, chopped green onions on top and serve immediately.
FAQ
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! It can be stored in the fridge for up to 1 day. For best texture, serve fresh.
What is torigara powder?
Torigara powder is a chicken stock base Japanese seasoning blend often used for salads and ramen toppings. It adds a savory, umami-rich flavor.
Can I substitute torigara powder?
Use chicken bouillon if available.
Is this similar to coleslaw?
Yes, but it’s simpler and doesn’t include vinegar-heavy dressing like Western coleslaw.
Can I make it lighter?
You can reduce the mayo.
Meal Ideas:
Pair it with my Chicken Karaage Recipe for a complete meal
Try this alongside my Japanese Potato Salad for a classic combo
Looking for more quick sides? Check out my Spinach Egg Salad (Gomaae style)
Serve it with my Shogayaki (Ginger Pork) for dinner
