Mediterranean Garden Slaw with Creamy Lemon-Tahini Dressing
Mediterranean Garden Slaw with Creamy Lemon-Tahini Dressing is a bright, crunchy, and nourishing salad that celebrates fresh vegetables and bold, wholesome flavors. This slaw is light yet satisfying, making it perfect as a side dish, a light lunch, or a refreshing companion to grilled meats and plant-based mains. The creamy tahini dressing adds richness without heaviness, while lemon and garlic bring a lively, zesty finish. Every bite is crisp, colorful, and packed with texture.
Ingredients
For the Slaw
2 cups shredded green cabbage
1 cup shredded purple cabbage
1 large carrot, grated
½ cucumber, julienned or thinly sliced
½ red bell pepper, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
1 tablespoon fresh mint, chopped (optional)
2 tablespoons toasted sunflower seeds or sliced almonds (optional, for crunch)
For the Creamy Lemon-Tahini Dressing
3 tablespoons tahini
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small garlic clove, minced
1–2 tablespoons warm water, as needed
1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
Prepare the vegetables
Start by washing and drying all your vegetables thoroughly. Shred the green and purple cabbage finely for the best texture. Grate the carrot, slice the cucumber into thin matchsticks or rounds, and cut the bell pepper into thin strips. Place all prepared vegetables into a large mixing bowl.Add fresh herbs and crunch
Sprinkle the chopped parsley and mint over the vegetables. If using sunflower seeds or almonds, add them now for extra texture and nutty flavor. Gently toss the slaw to distribute everything evenly.Make the lemon-tahini dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the tahini and lemon juice until smooth. Add olive oil, minced garlic, honey or maple syrup, salt, and black pepper. Slowly whisk in warm water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dressing becomes creamy and pourable. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.Combine and toss
Pour the dressing over the slaw. Using tongs or clean hands, toss everything together until the vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing. The slaw should look glossy but not overdressed.Rest and serve
For the best flavor, allow the slaw to rest for 10–15 minutes before serving. This brief resting time helps soften the cabbage slightly and allows the flavors to blend beautifully.
Serving Suggestions
This Mediterranean garden slaw pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, fish, or shrimp. It’s also excellent alongside falafel, roasted vegetables, or stuffed into warm pita bread. Serve it as a refreshing side at picnics, barbecues, or family dinners, or enjoy it as part of a grain bowl with quinoa or couscous.
Tips & Variations
Add chickpeas or lentils for a plant-based protein boost.
For extra creaminess, mix a spoonful of Greek yogurt into the dressing (not vegan).
Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours; toss again before serving.
This Mediterranean slaw is crisp, creamy, and endlessly versatile—an easy, healthy dish you’ll come back to again and again. 🥗✨