Mediterranean Garden Slaw with Creamy Lemon-Tahini Dressing

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Mediterranean Garden Slaw with Creamy Lemon-Tahini Dressing

A vibrant, crunchy slaw packed with shredded cabbage, carrots, and broccoli, tossed in a silky lemon-tahini dressing. This salad is light yet satisfying, perfect as a side dish or a healthy main.

 Time

  • Prep: 15 minutes

  • Cook: None

  • Total: 15 minutes

 Ingredients

Slaw

  • 4 cups green cabbage, finely shredded

  • 1 cup carrots, julienned or grated

  • 1½ cups broccoli stems or florets, thinly sliced

  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or dill, finely chopped (optional)

  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds or black seeds (optional, as seen in image)

Creamy Lemon-Tahini Dressing

  • ¼ cup tahini

  • 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • 1 small garlic clove, finely grated

  • 2–4 tablespoons warm water (to thin)

  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

 Instructions

  1. Place cabbage, carrots, broccoli, and herbs in a large bowl.

  2. In a separate bowl, whisk tahini, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.

  3. Slowly add warm water, whisking until smooth and creamy.

  4. Pour dressing over vegetables and toss until evenly coated.

  5. Sprinkle with sesame seeds if using.

  6. Chill 10 minutes before serving for best flavor.

 Description Notes

  • The slaw softens slightly as it rests while staying crisp.

  • Broccoli stems are ideal here—sweet, crunchy, and less bitter.

  • Dressing thickens naturally as it sits.

Tips & Variations

  • Extra protein: Add chickpeas, grilled chicken, or tofu

  • More Mediterranean: Add olives or sun-dried tomatoes

  • Low-fat option: Reduce tahini and add extra lemon juice

  • Spicy kick: Add chili flakes or a dash of cayenne

 Servings

  • Serves: 4 as a side

  • Serves: 2 as a main salad

Approximate Nutritional Info (per serving)

  • Calories: ~180

  • Protein: ~5 g

  • Fat: ~13 g

  • Carbohydrates: ~12 g

  • Fiber: ~5 g

(Values vary depending on tahini amount)

 Health Benefits

  • ✅ Rich in fiber for digestion

  • ✅ Healthy fats from tahini & olive oil

  • ✅ Anti-inflammatory ingredients

  • ✅ Naturally gluten-free

  • ✅ Supports heart & gut health

 Q & A

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes! Keeps well refrigerated for up to 2 days.

Q: Is tahini strong in flavor?
A: Lemon and garlic balance it beautifully—smooth, not bitter.

Q: Can I use red cabbage?
A: Absolutely! It adds color and extra antioxidants.

Q: Is this keto-friendly?
A: It’s low-carb but not strict keto due to carrots and tahini.

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