Down below is a recipe from Smitten Kitchen (one of those Northeastern writers) for Poolside Sesame Slaw. That’s the first thing I’ll do with part of our cabbage (and a cucumber, and a pepper or two). I have just been craving sesame this summer – so the toasted sesame oil and tahini in the dressing are very appealing to me right now.
Ingredients:
Dressing 1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger 1 medium garlic clove, minced 2 tablespoons well-stirred tahini 2 tablespoons white miso 1 tablespoon honey 1/4 cup rice vinegar 2 tablespoons toasted sesame oil 2 tablespoons olive or a neutral oil Salt and Sriracha to taste Slaw 4 cups thinly sliced mixed carrots, cucumber, celery, bell peppers, sugar snaps, and/or snow peas 2 cups thinly sliced red, green, savoy, or napa cabbage 1 cup chopped salted peanuts 1 cup thinly sliced scallion (white and green parts) Handful chopped fresh cilantro, if you wish About 1 cup Miso-Sesame Dressing (above) 1 pound grilled chicken thighs, thinly sliced (optional, see Note)
Preparation:
Make the dressing: Combine all dressing ingredients in a blender and run until smooth, scraping down sides once. You can also hand-whisk the ingredients in a bowl, but be vigorous so the chunky ingredients smooth out. Taste and adjust ingredients to your preference.
Assemble the salad: Holding back a little of the peanuts, scallion, and herbs for garnish, add all ingredients to a large bowl and toss with half of the dressing, adding some or all of the remaining dressing to taste. Season with salt and pepper, if needed. Sprinkle with reserved peanuts, scallions, and herbs for extra prettiness. Eat right away or bring it somewhere wonderful in a cooler and eat it in a few hours.
Do ahead: The dressing and chopped vegetables (except the cilantro, which might wilt faster), stored separately, will keep for up to 5 days in the fridge.