Use a sharp knife or mandoline to slice the red cabbage thinly for the best texture.
Shred the carrot and slice the green onions finely.
In a small bowl, whisk together apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, maple syrup, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper.
Taste and adjust as needed—more vinegar for tanginess, more maple syrup for sweetness.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cabbage, carrots, green onions, sesame seeds, and optional ingredients (cilantro, jalapeño).
Pour the dressing over the slaw and toss well until evenly coated.
For the best flavor, let the slaw sit for 15–30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together.
Serve as a side dish, taco topping, sandwich filling, or salad bowl mix-in.