Can I use regular green cabbage instead of napa?

You absolutely can, but listen - it won't be quite the same. Napa cabbage has those tender, slightly sweet leaves that make this salad special. Regular cabbage works in a pinch, but it'll be much tougher and more bitter. If you must substitute, try savoy cabbage - it's closer in texture.

How spicy is this salad really?

With just 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes, it's got a gentle warmth that sneaks up on you - what I call "friendly spicy." But here's my trick: Start with that amount, then taste and add more flakes if you're feeling bold. My husband always doubles it (and then complains it's too hot - some people never learn).

Will the almonds get soggy if I make this ahead?

Ah, the age-old salad dilemma. Here's the deal: Those sliced almonds will start losing their crunch after about 2 hours in the dressing. My solution? Store them separately in a little baggie and sprinkle them on right before serving. Same goes for the sesame seeds - they stay toastier when added last minute.

15-Minute Irresistible Napa Cabbage Crunch Salad

Print Recipe

A fresh and crunchy salad made with napa cabbage, carrots, and a tangy dressing.

Author: Nour Pullen
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Category: Salad
Method: No-Cook
Cuisine: Asian
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale

1 medium napa cabbage, shredded
2 large carrots, julienned
1/4 cup chopped green onions
1/4 cup sliced almonds
2 tablespoons sesame seeds
1/4 cup rice vinegar
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon honey
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes

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Instructions

In a large bowl, combine napa cabbage, carrots, and green onions.
In a small bowl, whisk together rice vinegar, soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes.
Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss well.
Sprinkle with almonds and sesame seeds before serving.

Notes

For extra crunch, add chopped peanuts or crispy wonton strips.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

Find it online: https://crispzy.com/napa-cabbage-crunch-salad-recipe/