Whole30 Grilled Cactus with Lime and Cilantro
Brighten up your Whole30 meal plan with this vibrant and refreshing Grilled Cactus with Lime and Cilantro recipe! Featuring tender nopales (cactus paddles) marinated in a zesty blend of olive oil, fresh lime juice, minced garlic, and a touch of salt and pepper, this dish is then grilled to smoky perfection for a unique, charred flavor. A sprinkle of fresh cilantro adds a burst of herbaceous freshness, making it an irresistible addition to your plate. Perfect as a side dish or a flavorful topping for salads and tacos, this recipe is quick to prepare, Whole30-compliant, and a delightful way to explore unique produce. Ideal for summer cookouts or as a creative way to shake up your weeknight meals, this grilled cactus recipe is packed with bold flavors, nutrition, and irresistible aromas.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 4 Cactus paddles (nopales)
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil
- 2 Lime
- 1 bunch Fresh cilantro
- 2 Garlic cloves
- 0.5 teaspoon Salt
- 0.25 teaspoon Black pepper
Instructions
Start by washing the cactus paddles thoroughly under cold running water to remove dirt and debris. Be careful of the small spines.
Using a sharp knife, carefully trim the edges of the paddles and scrape off the thorns on both sides.
Once trimmed, slice each paddle into approximately 1-inch wide strips.
In a small bowl, mince the garlic cloves and add them to the olive oil.
Zest one lime and add the zest to the bowl, then juice both limes and add the juice to the bowl. Mix well.
Chop the fresh cilantro leaves, discarding the stems, and set aside.
Place the cactus strips into a shallow dish and pour the olive oil garlic and lime mixture over them. Season with salt and pepper and toss to coat evenly.
Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
Once the grill is hot, place the seasoned cactus strips directly onto the grill grates.
Grill the cactus for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are lightly charred and tender.
Remove the grilled cactus from the grill and transfer to a serving platter.
Sprinkle the chopped cilantro over the grilled cactus for an added freshness.
Serve immediately as a side or as a topping for salads or tacos.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
89 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 7.0 g | 9% | |
| Saturated Fat | 0.9 g | 5% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 265 mg | 12% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 7.6 g | 3% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 3.4 g | 12% | |
| Total Sugars | 1.7 g | ||
| Protein | 1.9 g | 4% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 183 mg | 14% | |
| Iron | 0.9 mg | 5% | |
| Potassium | 325 mg | 7% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
