Before we dive into the glorious realm of Easy Mexican Slaw with Cilantro Lime Dressing, let’s talk about what you can enjoy it with. This slaw is incredibly versatile. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats, tacos, or even as a topping for burrito bowls. Imagine biting into a juicy grilled chicken taco topped with this vibrant slaw. 

The crunch of the cabbage and the zing of the dressing elevate every bite. Or consider enjoying it alongside some spicy shrimp skewers — a perfect balance that can dance on your palate.

But wait! There’s more. This slaw can also serve as a lively side dish for a summer barbecue. Think burgers sizzling on the grill and this slaw adding a refreshing twist to the plate. Feeling adventurous? Toss it into your next sandwich for a flavor explosion.

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Hey there! I often find myself rummaging through my fridge, desperately seeking a way to brighten up dinner. That’s when I stumbled upon this gem: Easy Mexican Slaw with Cilantro Lime Dressing. This dish is a knockout in flavor and simplicity. Whether you’re dishing this up for a family gathering or just a cozy night in, this slaw brings freshness and a hint of fiesta. 

With crunchy cabbage, sweet carrots, and a zesty cilantro-lime dressing, it’s nearly impossible not to fall in love. Today, I’m going to guide you through making this delightful slaw, providing extra tips and tricks to make your culinary journey as smooth as butter. Let’s get cooking!

What is Easy Mexican Slaw with Cilantro Lime Dressing?

So, what’s the deal with Easy Mexican Slaw with Cilantro Lime Dressing? At its core, this dish blends colorful, fresh ingredients to create a slaw that’s not just a sidekick to your main meal but a star in its own right. 

The base is finely shredded purple cabbage mixed with julienned carrot for a lovely crunch. The dressing? It’s a heavenly concoction of olive oil, red wine vinegar, honey, and fresh lime juice, all coming together to create a flavor that’s both vibrant and refreshing.

Why This Recipe Works?

This slaw isn’t just satisfying to eat; it also checks the boxes for health and ease. Here’s why this recipe works so well:

1. Freshness is Key
The primary ingredients are fresh. When you use crisp cabbage and colorful veggies, you’re not only enhancing the taste but also boosting the nutritional profile. Fresh produce means packed vitamins and minerals, which is a win-win.

2. Quick and Simple Preparation
You won’t spend hours in the kitchen. This slaw comes together in no time, making it perfect for those busy evenings or last-minute gatherings. With just a few steps, you’ll have a bowl of goodness ready to serve.

3. Versatility
This recipe is a blank canvas. You can tweak the ingredients to suit your taste. Love spicy food? Add in diced jalapeños. Prefer a milder flavor? Skip the chili and enjoy it as is. This adaptability makes it suitable for many occasions.

4. A Flavorful Dressing
The cilantro lime dressing brings everything together. It’s zesty, slightly sweet, and packed with flavor. With the right balance of acidity and sweetness, this dressing transforms the slaw into a vibrant dish. Everyone will ask for the recipe!

Ingredients You’ll Need To Make This Dish

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delightful slaw:

• 6 cups finely shredded purple cabbage
  
• 1 cup julienned carrot
  
• ½ cup chopped fresh cilantro
  
• ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
  
• 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
  
• 2 tablespoons raw honey
  
• Juice of 1 fresh lime
  
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
  
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, ¼–½ teaspoon each, to taste
  
• 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds (optional)
  
• 1 small finely diced red chili (optional)
  

How To Make This Easy Mexican Slaw with Cilantro Lime Dressing?

Let’s get our hands dirty and cook! Here’s how to make this slaw step by step:

Step 1: Prep Your Vegetables

Start by washing the cabbage and carrots thoroughly. A clean slate is essential! Shred the cabbage finely – because let’s face it, no one wants a chunky slaw. Follow this with julienning the carrots. It’s all about those lovely, thin strips that make it easy to eat.

Step 2: Chop the Cilantro

Grab a handful of fresh cilantro. The aroma is simply delightful! Chop it coarsely, so it mixes well with the other ingredients. The cilantro is what infuses that authentic Mexican flavor into our slaw.

Step 3: Mix the Vegetables

Take a large bowl and toss in the shredded cabbage, julienned carrot, and chopped cilantro. Give it a gentle mix. The colors should pop – a visual feast already!

Step 4: Prepare the Dressing

In a separate bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, honey, lime juice, cumin, coriander, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. The dressing should be balanced: sweet, sour, and a touch spicy if you added chili.

Step 5: Combine

Pour the dressing over the slaw mix. Toss gently to coat all the veggies evenly. It’s essential to get every bit of that dressing in there – it’s what makes this slaw sing!

Step 6: Let it Rest

Allow the slaw to sit for about 15 minutes before serving. This gives the flavors time to mingle. If you’re patient, the taste will deepen.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Serve this slaw fresh! It’s the perfect companion to grilled meats or just as is. And remember, feel free to enjoy it cold out of the fridge the next day. Slaw can be a great make-ahead dish!

Tips & Tricks

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh veggies always elevate your dish. Choose cabbage and carrots that are vibrant and crunchy.
  
• Balance the Sweetness: If you love it a bit sweeter, feel free to add more honey. Adjust it to your taste.
  
• Add Texture: Consider tossing in toasted nuts or seeds for extra crunch. Sunflower seeds can be a great addition!
  
• Control the Heat: Adjust the amount of chili you add based on your spice preference. You can even leave it out for a milder slaw.
  
• Make Ahead: This slaw holds up well in the fridge for a day or two, making it perfect for meal prep!
  

Nutrition Information

Let’s break down the nutrition for this slaw. Based on generous servings, it provides a good amount of fiber from the veggies. You’ll find a handful of vitamins A and K due to cabbage and carrots being nutrient-dense. The olive oil adds healthy fats, promoting heart health. Each serving offers approximately:

• Calories: 120
  
• Fat: 9 g
  
• Carbohydrates: 12 g
  
• Protein: 1 g
  
• Sugars: 4 g
  
• Fiber: 3 g
  

How Do You Store The Leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in your fridge. The slaw is best enjoyed within 2-3 days. The flavors will intensify over time, but keep in mind that the texture may soften. If you like a crunch, consider making the dressing separately and mixing it in just before you eat.

What Sides Would Complement Easy Mexican Slaw with Cilantro Lime Dressing?

Parallel to the slaw, several sides can enhance your dining experience. Here are a few ideas:

1. Grilled Chicken or Steak
Juicy, grilled meats are a match made in heaven with this slaw. The slaw cuts through the richness of the meat, providing that refreshing contrast that keeps each bite exciting.

2. Fish Tacos
Wrap up seasoned fish in a tortilla, then top with this slaw for a fresh twist. The crunch and flavors of the slaw brighten up it all.

3. Black Bean Salad
Try pairing with a nutrient-rich black bean salad. It adds protein and fiber. With its own zingy flavors, it complements the slaw nicely.

What Alternatives Can You Use for the Ingredients if They Are Not Present in Your Kitchen?

Life happens, and sometimes you might be missing a few ingredients. Here’s what you can substitute:

1. Cabbage Alternatives
If you don’t have purple cabbage, green cabbage or even kale work well. They can provide a kick of colour and nutrients.

2. Different Vinegar
No red wine vinegar? Try apple cider vinegar for a similar tang, or even rice vinegar if that’s what you have on hand.

3. Sweetener Substitutions
Out of raw honey? Maple syrup or agave nectar can serve as solid alternatives, keeping that lovely sweetness intact.

4. Herb Alternatives
No cilantro? If it’s just not your taste, consider using parsley or even mint for a refreshing twist. Both herbs will add their unique flavor to the slaw.

Pamela Dunlap

Easy Mexican Slaw with Cilantro Lime Dressing

Before we dive into the glorious realm of Easy Mexican Slaw with Cilantro Lime Dressing, let’s talk about what you can enjoy it with. This slaw is incredibly versatile. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats, tacos, or even as a topping for burrito bowls. Imagine biting into a juicy grilled chicken taco topped with this vibrant slaw.

Print Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Servings: 4

Course: Side Dish

Cuisine: American, Mexican

Calories: 120

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

  

1x2x3x?

• 6 cups finely shredded purple cabbage
• 1 cup julienned carrot
• ½ cup chopped fresh cilantro
• ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
• 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 2 tablespoons raw honey
• Juice of 1 fresh lime
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper ¼–½ teaspoon each, to taste
• 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds optional
• 1 small finely diced red chili optional

Equipment

• Bowl

Method

 

Step 1: Prep Your Vegetables

1. Start by washing the cabbage and carrots thoroughly. A clean slate is essential! Shred the cabbage finely – because let’s face it, no one wants a chunky slaw. Follow this with julienning the carrots. It’s all about those lovely, thin strips that make it easy to eat.

Step 2: Chop the Cilantro

1. Grab a handful of fresh cilantro. The aroma is simply delightful! Chop it coarsely, so it mixes well with the other ingredients. The cilantro is what infuses that authentic Mexican flavor into our slaw.

Step 3: Mix the Vegetables

1. Take a large bowl and toss in the shredded cabbage, julienned carrot, and chopped cilantro. Give it a gentle mix. The colors should pop – a visual feast already!

Step 4: Prepare the Dressing

1. In a separate bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, honey, lime juice, cumin, coriander, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. The dressing should be balanced: sweet, sour, and a touch spicy if you added chili.

Step 5: Combine

1. Pour the dressing over the slaw mix. Toss gently to coat all the veggies evenly. It’s essential to get every bit of that dressing in there – it’s what makes this slaw sing!

Step 6: Let it Rest

1. Allow the slaw to sit for about 15 minutes before serving. This gives the flavors time to mingle. If you’re patient, the taste will deepen.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

1. Serve this slaw fresh! It’s the perfect companion to grilled meats or just as is. And remember, feel free to enjoy it cold out of the fridge the next day. Slaw can be a great make-ahead dish!

Nutrition

Calories: 120kcalCarbohydrates: 12gProtein: 1gFat: 9gFiber: 3gSugar: 4g

Notes

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh veggies always elevate your dish. Choose cabbage and carrots that are vibrant and crunchy.
• Balance the Sweetness: If you love it a bit sweeter, feel free to add more honey. Adjust it to your taste.
• Add Texture: Consider tossing in toasted nuts or seeds for extra crunch. Sunflower seeds can be a great addition!
• Control the Heat: Adjust the amount of chili you add based on your spice preference. You can even leave it out for a milder slaw.
  
• Make Ahead: This slaw holds up well in the fridge for a day or two, making it perfect for meal prep!

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

So there you have it! Easy Mexican Slaw with Cilantro Lime Dressing isn’t merely a dish; it’s a celebration on a plate. With its vibrant colors, refreshing flavors, and simple preparation, you’ll be making this slaw time and time again. Enjoy it as a side, a topping, or just on its own. 

No matter how you serve it, this dish will shine bright on your table. Gather your ingredients and get ready to indulge in a little taste of Mexico right from your kitchen! Happy cooking!

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