Ginger Free Cilantro-Lime Zucchini Herb Slaw
This vibrant slaw is a riot of color and fresh flavor — shredded zucchini, purple cabbage, cilantro, and mint all tossed in a bright lime-and-cumin dressing that hits every note at once. The trick of salting and squeezing the zucchini before dressing it keeps everything crisp rather than watery, which makes a real difference in the final texture. Warm spices like cumin and turmeric give the dressing unexpected depth without any heat or sharpness from ginger, so the whole thing stays clean and refreshing. Scallion greens add a gentle oniony lift, and if you want a little kick, the optional jalapeño brings it without overwhelming the herbs. A handful of pumpkin seeds scattered over the top right before serving adds a satisfying crunch that rounds out every bite. This is the kind of side dish that disappears fast — it works alongside grilled proteins, tucked into tacos, or honestly just eaten straight from the bowl.
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Learn more →Ingredients
4 servings
For the slaw
- 2 medium zucchini (about 1 lb total), trimmed
- 2 cups red cabbage, very thinly sliced
- ½ cup fresh cilantro leaves, roughly chopped
- ¼ cup fresh mint leaves, roughly chopped
- 3 scallions (green tops only), thinly sliced
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely minced (optional)
For the dressing
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 3 tbsp fresh lime juice (from about 2 limes)
- 1 tsp lime zest
- 1 tsp raw honey
- ½ tsp ground cumin
- ¼ tsp ground turmeric
- ¼ tsp fine sea salt, plus more to taste
- ¼ tsp black pepper
For serving
- 2 tbsp raw pumpkin seeds (pepitas) (optional)
Instructions
- 1
Using the large holes of a box grater or a julienne peeler, shred the zucchini into long strands into a large mixing bowl. Sprinkle with a pinch of salt, toss briefly, and let stand for 10 minutes, then squeeze the zucchini firmly in your hands or in a clean kitchen towel to remove as much liquid as possible. Return the squeezed zucchini to the bowl.
- 2
Add the red cabbage, cilantro, mint, scallion greens, and jalapeño, if using, to the bowl with the zucchini and toss to combine.
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