Name: The Ultimate Cilantro Lime Slaw Recipe: A Zesty Side Dish for Any Meal
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 4 cups shredded green cabbage (or coleslaw mix); 1 cup shredded red cabbage (optional, for color); 1 cup shredded carrots; ½ cup chopped fresh cilantro (leaves and tender stems); 2 green onions, thinly sliced; 3 tbsp fresh lime juice (about 1–2 limes); 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (optional, adds tang); 2 tbsp olive oil or mayonnaise (or half of each for a creamy-but-light version); 1 tsp honey or agave (optional, balances acidity); 1 clove garlic, finely minced or grated; ½ tsp ground cumin (optional but lovely with lime + cilantro); Salt and pepper to taste

Description

Cilantro Lime Slaw is a fresh, crisp slaw made from shredded cabbage, carrots, cilantro, and green onions. The dressing is made with lime juice, vinegar, olive oil or mayonnaise, and other seasonings like garlic and cumin. The result is a slaw that is tangy, fresh, and light yet packed with flavor. It’s a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of main courses, such as tacos, burgers, and grilled meats.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Slaw

4 cups shredded green cabbage (or coleslaw mix)
1 cup shredded red cabbage (optional, for color)
1 cup shredded carrots
½ cup chopped fresh cilantro (leaves and tender stems)
2 green onions, thinly sliced

For the Dressing

3 tbsp fresh lime juice (about 1–2 limes)
1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (optional, adds tang)
2 tbsp olive oil or mayonnaise (or half of each for a creamy-but-light version)
1 tsp honey or agave (optional, balances acidity)
1 clove garlic, finely minced or grated
½ tsp ground cumin (optional but lovely with lime + cilantro)
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Make the Dressing

In a small bowl or jar, whisk together:
- Lime juice
- Vinegar (if using)
- Olive oil or mayo
- Honey
- Garlic
- Cumin, salt, and pepper
Taste and adjust seasoning — add more lime for zing or a touch more honey for balance.

2. Assemble the Slaw

In a large bowl, combine cabbage, carrots, cilantro, and green onions.
Pour the dressing over the top.
Toss well to coat everything evenly.
Let it sit 10–15 minutes (or chill up to 1 hour) to soften slightly and let flavors meld.

3. Serve

Great as a topping for fish tacos, pulled pork, grilled chicken, burgers, or grain bowls.
Also excellent as a fresh side salad with Mexican, BBQ, or tropical dishes.

Notes

This vibrant slaw pairs perfectly with tacos, grilled chicken, or fish. For an extra kick, add sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds. It’s best served chilled, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully!

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Side Dish
Method: No-Cook / Mixing
Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 90

Keywords: Cilantro Slaw, Lime Slaw, Fresh Slaw, Zesty Slaw, Cabbage Slaw with Lime