Cilantro Lime Coleslaw

A Zesty, Refreshing Side Dish

Cilantro Lime Coleslaw is a fresh, vibrant, and slightly tangy dish that’s perfect for summer cookouts, taco nights, or as a flavorful topping for sandwiches and burgers. Packed with crisp cabbage, creamy dressing, and a punch of citrus, this coleslaw adds the perfect balance of crunch and zest to any meal.

Whether you’re a coleslaw lover looking for a new twist or someone who wants a refreshing side that pairs beautifully with grilled meats, this recipe is for you. Not only is it incredibly easy to make, but it’s also a fantastic way to add a fresh and nutritious component to your plate.

Why You’ll Love This Cilantro Lime Coleslaw Recipe

  • Quick and Easy: With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep, this coleslaw comes together in minutes.
  • Light and Refreshing: The combination of lime juice and zest makes it incredibly fresh, perfect for balancing out rich or spicy dishes.
  • Perfect for Meal Prep: Make it ahead of time and let the flavors meld for an even better taste.
  • Versatile: Serve it as a side dish, a topping for tacos or burgers, or even as a salad base with added protein.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Coleslaw:

  • 1 (8 oz.) bag coleslaw mix (or shredded cabbage and carrots)
  • ¼ cup fresh cilantro, packed

For the Dressing:

  • ¼ cup mayonnaise
  • ¼ cup sour cream
  • 1 oz. fresh-squeezed lime juice
  • ½ teaspoon lime zest
  • ¼ teaspoon ground cumin
  • ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ⅛ teaspoon ground cayenne (optional for a bit of heat)
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ⅛ teaspoon ground black pepper

Kitchen Equipment Needed

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Immersion blender or food processor
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Citrus juicer (optional)
  • Zester or microplane
  • Mixing spoon

How to Make Cilantro Lime Coleslaw

  1. Prepare the Coleslaw Mix:
    • Add the coleslaw mix to a large bowl and discard the included dressing package if there is one.
  2. Make the Dressing:
    • In a separate container (such as a tall glass or a food processor), combine mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, lime zest, cilantro, cumin, garlic powder, cayenne, salt, and black pepper.
    • Use an immersion blender or food processor to blend until smooth and creamy.
  3. Combine:
    • Pour the freshly blended dressing over the coleslaw mix and toss until everything is well coated.
  4. Let It Rest:
    • Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld. This step is crucial for the best taste and texture.
  5. Serve and Enjoy:
    • Enjoy it as a side dish, or use it as a topping for tacos, pulled pork sandwiches, or grilled chicken.

Tips & Variations

Ingredient Swaps:

  • Dairy-Free Version: Substitute the mayonnaise and sour cream with dairy-free alternatives like coconut yogurt or vegan mayo.
  • Lighter Version: Use Greek yogurt in place of sour cream for a healthier twist.
  • Extra Crunch: Add sliced jalapeños, diced red onions, or toasted pumpkin seeds for added texture.
  • Spicier Kick: Increase the amount of cayenne or add a splash of hot sauce to the dressing.

Meal Pairings

  • Tacos: Pairs perfectly with grilled fish tacos, shrimp tacos, or carne asada.
  • BBQ Dishes: A great complement to pulled pork, grilled chicken, or smoked brisket.
  • Burgers & Sandwiches: Adds a fresh crunch to turkey burgers, pulled pork sandwiches, or even vegetarian sandwiches.
  • Mexican-Inspired Dishes: Serve alongside enchiladas, tamales, or quesadillas for a refreshing contrast.

Storage Tips

  • Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • If the coleslaw starts to release excess moisture, simply toss it again before serving.
  • Avoid freezing, as the texture of the cabbage will become too watery when thawed.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this coleslaw ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, letting it sit in the fridge for a few hours enhances the flavor. Just give it a good toss before serving.

2. Can I use regular cabbage instead of coleslaw mix?

Yes! You can finely shred about 3 cups of green cabbage and ½ cup of shredded carrots to replace the pre-packaged coleslaw mix.

3. How do I adjust the flavor to my liking?

If you prefer a tangier slaw, add extra lime juice. For more spice, increase the cayenne or add diced jalapeños. If you like a creamier texture, use more mayonnaise or sour cream.

4. Is this coleslaw keto-friendly?

Yes! This coleslaw is naturally low in carbs, making it a great option for keto and low-carb diets.

5. What’s the best way to serve this coleslaw?

It’s incredibly versatile! Enjoy it as a side, on top of tacos, inside a sandwich, or even as a crunchy topping for grilled meats.

Final Thoughts & Call to Action

Cilantro Lime Coleslaw is the perfect way to add a refreshing, tangy, and slightly creamy touch to your meals. Whether you’re preparing it for a summer barbecue, taco night, or simply to enjoy as a crunchy side, this slaw will quickly become a favorite.

If you loved this recipe, please share it with your friends and family! Don’t forget to subscribe to our blog for more delicious recipes, cooking tips, and meal inspiration. Let us know in the comments how you served your cilantro lime coleslaw—we’d love to hear your variations!

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