Slaw with Zesty Lime Dressing is my new favorite plant-based summer recipe. Improvised in minutes by my husband, I was shocked at how flavorful the dressing was. He shredded the veggies so thin, the crunch was much more subtle while the citrus popped. With only 7 ingredients, this slaw can be made quickly while providing a healthy dose of fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants.
Flavor of Slaw with Zesty Lime Dressing
This slaw has a bright, citrus pop that mutes any other specific ingredient's flavor. That being said there is juice from jarred jalapeno and cilantro that enhance the lime flavor. The jalapeno juice is not spicy when most store-bought jarred jalapeno brine is used. So if you are sensitive to heat, you likely won't have a problem adding a tablespoon of jalapeno juice; it shouldn't be skipped.
There are people who are born with a gene that causes a dislike for cilantro. If you are one of those people, I'm sorry. This slaw may not be for you. The cilantro is a vital flavor component.
The cabbage, carrot, and red onion are meant to be grated or shredded finely. As a result, they absorb the dressing well and have minimal flavors of their own in this slaw. If you're not a fan of cabbage, red onions, or carrots, you're still likely to enjoy this salad.
Give it a try! I think you'll be pleasantly surprised!
Nutrition of Slaw with Zesty Lime Dressing
Cabbage Nutrition
Whether or not you like cabbage, it acts as a nutritious base for this salad. The cabbage provides an excellent source of vitamin C, vitamin K, and antioxidants. It also offers B vitamins, fiber, manganese, calcium, potassium, and magnesium. Cabbage is good for digestion, lowering cholesterol, and keeping the immune system strong.
Carrot Nutrition
The grated carrot in this slaw contains beta-carotene which is good for improving night vision. Carrots also have vitamin C, vitamin B6, and a small amount of calcium. Contrary to belief, carrots are no longer consider a "starchy" vegetable that people with diabetes need to avoid. Rather, carrots contain fiber and are a recommended veggie for those watching their blood sugars.
Red Onion
Red onion in this slaw is optional. For those with IBS, GERD, heartburn triggered by onions, or following a low FODMAP diet, the red onion can be left out.
If you like red onion, about a quarter cup used in this slaw can contribute vitamin C, fiber, magnesium, and potassium.
Lime Juice Nutrition
Because there is such little lime juice needed for this slaw's dressing, it only contributes minute amounts of nutrition. However, the juice of just one lime offers 13mg of vitamin C, which is 14% of the RDA for men (17% for women).
Olive Oil Nutrition
Olive oil provides healthy monounsaturated fat, as well as a small percentage of polyunsaturated fats (omega-3s and -6s). Monounsaturated fats are important for a healthy heart because it helps to lower LDL cholesterol. Olive oil is also anti-inflammatory and provides antioxidants.
Allergen Information of this Citrusy Side Dish
Slaw with Zesty Lime Dressing is free of the Top 9 allergens. It is gluten-free, vegan, and vegetarian.
For those following a low FODMAP diet or sensitive to onions, the red onion can optionally be left out without affecting the flavor too much.
Recipe for Slaw with Zesty Lime Dressing
Prep Time: 20 mins.
Chill Time: 20 mins. (if possible)
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients
1/4 head or 2 cups of green cabbage, finely shredded
2 medium carrots, grated
1/4 cup red onion, finely shredded
2 Tbsp cilantro, chopped
Dressing:
Juice of 1 lime
1 Tbsp jarred jalapeno brine
2 Tbsp olive oil
salt & pepper to taste
Directions:
Mix all ingredients together in a large bowl.
Chill for at least 20 minutes to allow the flavors to combine.
For a virtual appointment with a Registered Dietitian, visit ZESTNutritionService.com!