Salsa Verde Pork Sliders

Irresistible Cilantro Pork Sliders with Salsa Verde Slaw

Welcome to the world of vibrant flavors and delightful textures with these mouth-watering Cilantro Pork Sliders paired with a refreshing Salsa Verde Slaw. This unique twist on a classic slider captures the essence of savory and zesty flavors, providing an exciting culinary experience with each bite.

Perfect for a weekend barbecue or an easy weeknight dinner, these sliders are special for their marriage of smokiness from the paprika and the crisp freshness from cilantro. The secret to their exquisite taste lies in the careful selection of ingredients, with fresh cilantro infusing a burst of herbal goodness and the salsa verde adding an unexpected tangy twist.

Before you dive into preparation, make sure to have all the ingredients at hand. Remember, choosing fresh cilantro and a quality garlic blend paste will enhance the flavors phenomenally. To achieve perfect patties, mix the ingredients gently and uniformly to ensure every bite is packed with flavor.

Preheat your grill for a beautiful char on the patties and prepare to toss the flavorful slaw. This dish doesn't just end with cooking — presentation is key! Arrange the ingredients artfully, layering the slaw and chips for the ultimate crunch. So, grab your grilling essentials and let's get started on creating this spectacular dish!

Ingredients

• 1 bunch fresh cilantro, divided
• 1 lb ground pork
• 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
• 2 teaspoons garlic blend paste
• 1 cup salsa verde, divided
• ½ cup reduced-fat mayonnaise
• 1 (16 oz) bag coleslaw mix
• Cooking spray
• 12 dinner rolls
• 1 cup potato (or plantain) chips

Cilantro adds an unmistakable fresh and aromatic quality that elevates the dish's complexity.

Ground pork serves as the tender and juicy base of the slider, absorbing all the bold flavors.

Smoked paprika provides a subtle smokiness, enhancing the meat's natural flavors.

This adds a rich and savory depth while harmoniously blending with the pork.

A tangy, slightly spicy salsa that brings brightness and moisture to both the patties and slaw.

Offers a creamy binding for the slaw while keeping it light and flavorful.

The perfect crunchy component that complements the patties and balances the richness.

Ensures an anti-stick grilling process, helping achieve a crisp and even sear.

Soft and fluffy, these rolls are the perfect vessel for the flavorful sliders.

Adds a satisfying crunch, contrasting with the tenderness of the pork.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium heat. Meanwhile, chop the cilantro finely, reserving 1 cup for later use.
2. Combine the ground pork, half of the cilantro, the smoked paprika, 2 teaspoons of garlic paste, and half a cup of salsa verde. Ensure the mix is well-blended without overworking the meat, then shape it into 12 evenly sized patties. Remember to wash hands thoroughly after handling raw meat.
3. Mix the mayonnaise with the remaining salsa verde and cilantro, whisking until smooth. Toss this mixture with the coleslaw mix, ensuring even coating for a vibrant, refreshing slaw.
4. Coat the patties lightly with cooking spray before grilling. This step is crucial for achieving a perfect sear and preventing sticking.
5. Grill each patty for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side, until they reach an internal temperature of 160°F. This ensures they are cooked thoroughly while remaining juicy. Pay attention to the color and texture as cues for doneness.
6. Slice the dinner rolls and place each cooked patty on the bottom halves. Layer with a generous portion of the vibrant slaw, then add a handful of crispy chips for an enjoyable crunch.
7. Finish by topping with the remaining half of the rolls and serve immediately for the best taste experience. Enjoy your creative and delicious culinary accomplishment!

Tips for Troubleshooting if Something Goes Wrong with the Recipe

• Too thick slaw? If your slaw mixture is too thick, try adding a splash of lime juice or a tablespoon of warm water to thin it slightly without diluting its flavor.
• Sliders lacking flavor? Check if the paprika, garlic blend, and salsa have been distributed evenly. Consider adding a touch more smoked paprika or cilantro to heighten flavors.
• Patties too dry? Be cautious not to overcook them. Monitor the internal temperature and remove them from heat just as they reach the recommended safe temperature.
• Rolls soggy? Ensure the slaw is well-drained, or toast the rolls lightly to add a barrier to moisture penetration.
• Slaw too spicy? Incorporate more mayonnaise or a dollop of Greek yogurt to mellow the heat without compromising the dish's integrity.

Ideas for Pairing with the Recipe

• Side Dishes: Complement your sliders with roasted sweet potato wedges or a fresh corn salad. The natural sweetness and earthy notes pair wonderfully with the pork and slaw.
• Drinks: A crisp, cold lager or a refreshing mojito can enhance the citrusy cilantro and smoky paprika in the sliders. For non-alcoholic options, try a sparkling limeade to match the salsa's zest.
• Desserts: After the savory feast, finish with a light citrus sorbet or creamy coconut flan to cleanse the palate while maintaining the Hispanic-inspired theme.
• Garnishes: A sprinkle of crumbled queso fresco on the slaw or a slice of ripe avocado can enhance the richness and visual appeal of your sliders.

How to Store Properly

Storing these sliders is a breeze, allowing you to enjoy them as an easy leftover option. Here’s how to do it:

• For refrigeration: Separate the components before storing to prevent sogginess. Keep the patties, slaw, and rolls in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• For freezing: Freeze the cooked patties separately by laying them on a baking sheet until firm before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on low in the oven before serving with fresh slaw.
• Prepping ahead: Make the patties a day in advance and keep them uncooked in the fridge, allowing quick assembling during busy days.

FAQ

• Can I substitute the pork for another protein? Yes! Ground turkey or chicken can work well, though it may change the flavor slightly. Adding a bit of extra seasoning can help maintain bold flavors.
• Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe? Absolutely. Consider using mashed chickpeas or lentils mixed with breadcrumbs and seasonings as a patty base. You may need to adjust cooking times.
• What can I use if I don't have smoked paprika? Use regular paprika and a pinch of cayenne for smokiness, or a dash of liquid smoke to mimic the same flavor profile.
• How can I make the sliders more spicy? Add chopped jalapeños to the slaw or a sprinkle of chili powder in the pork mixture to cater to your heat preferences.