Rice Free Cilantro-Lime Zucchini Herb Slaw
This vibrant, crunchy slaw is everything you want in a fresh side dish — bright citrus, fragrant herbs, and a little heat if you're into it. Shredded zucchini takes the place of any grain-based filler, making this a naturally satisfying option that never feels like a compromise. The trick of salting and squeezing the zucchini before tossing keeps the slaw from going watery, so every bite stays crisp and well-dressed. A cumin-and-turmeric-spiked lime dressing ties the red cabbage, cilantro, and mint together in a way that feels genuinely crave-worthy. The whole thing comes together in one bowl with just a whisk and a good squeeze of fresh lime — no special equipment needed. A handful of pumpkin seeds scattered on top at the end adds a satisfying crunch and makes it look like something you'd order at a restaurant. It works beautifully 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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