Mexican Coleslaw With Cilantro Lime Dressing Recipe

Intro

Sometimes, the simplest dishes are the ones that completely steal the show. That’s exactly how I feel about this Mexican Coleslaw With Cilantro Lime Dressing. Fresh, vibrant, and full of zesty flavor, this slaw has become my go-to side for tacos, grilled meats, or even just on its own as a refreshing lunch.

One bite and you can taste the brightness from the lime, the aromatic punch from the cilantro, and the crunch of crisp cabbage and carrots.

As a home cook, I love recipes that balance fresh vegetables with a bold, flavorful dressing. This Mexican Coleslaw With Cilantro Lime Dressing hits all the right notes — tangy, slightly sweet, herbal, and crunchy. It’s versatile, easy to make, and a true crowd-pleaser.

What is Mexican Coleslaw With Cilantro Lime Dressing?

This Mexican Coleslaw With Cilantro Lime Dressing is a modern twist on the classic coleslaw. Instead of a heavy, mayo-laden dressing, this recipe uses a tangy, creamy cilantro lime dressing that brings out the best in fresh vegetables. It combines shredded green and purple cabbage, crisp carrots, and red bell peppers for vibrant color and texture.

The dressing is made with lime juice, fresh cilantro, a touch of honey, garlic, and a splash of olive oil, giving the slaw a refreshing, zesty flavor. It’s perfect for tacos, grilled chicken, fish, or as a topping for sandwiches. It’s light, healthy, and utterly addictive.

Equipment List

• Large mixing bowl
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Vegetable peeler (for carrots)
• Whisk or fork (for dressing)
• Serving spoon

Optional:

• Salad spinner (for drying cabbage)
• Food processor with shredding attachment (to save time)

Recipe Card Info

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Serves: 6–8 servings
Cuisine: Mexican / Tex-Mex
Course: Side Dish
Calories: Approximately 120 calories per serving

Ingredients

For the Slaw:

• 3 cups green cabbage, shredded
• 2 cups purple cabbage, shredded
• 1 cup carrots, shredded
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely sliced
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

For the Dressing:

• 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Optional: 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt for creaminess

Instructions (Step by Step)

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

Shred the green and purple cabbage and carrots. Thinly slice the red bell pepper and red onion. Place all the vegetables in a large mixing bowl.

Step 2: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, honey, chopped cilantro, minced garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper. If you prefer a creamier dressing, whisk in Greek yogurt.

Step 3: Toss the Slaw

Pour the dressing over the shredded vegetables. Toss thoroughly to ensure every piece is coated. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 4: Chill and Serve

For best results, let the slaw sit in the refrigerator for at least 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve chilled as a side with tacos, grilled meats, or as a topping for sandwiches.

Why This Slaw Stands Out

The key to this Mexican Coleslaw With Cilantro Lime Dressing is balance. The cabbage and carrots provide crunch, the bell pepper adds sweetness, and the onion gives a subtle bite. The dressing is bright, tangy, and slightly sweet, with a fresh herbal lift from cilantro.

It’s a refreshing alternative to traditional coleslaw, which can sometimes feel heavy or bland. This version is light, colorful, and full of flavor.

Flavor Breakdown

• Crunchy: Shredded cabbage and carrots
• Sweet: Bell pepper and honey in the dressing
• Tangy: Fresh lime juice
• Herby: Cilantro
• Savory: Garlic and cumin
• Optional Creamy: Greek yogurt adds richness

Every bite is a balance of textures and vibrant flavors.

Tips for the Best Mexican Coleslaw

• Use a sharp knife or food processor for even, thin shreds.
• Dry the cabbage in a salad spinner to avoid a watery slaw.
• Make the dressing ahead of time to allow flavors to blend.
• Add avocado cubes or cherry tomatoes for extra creaminess and color.
• Toss lightly just before serving to maintain crunch.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Prepare the vegetables and dressing separately if you need to make this ahead. Toss together just before serving. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Avoid adding avocado too early as it may brown.

Delicious Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a dash of chili powder.
• Extra Creamy: Mix in 2–3 tablespoons of sour cream or Greek yogurt.
• Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle toasted pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds on top.
• Fruit Twist: Add diced mango or pineapple for sweetness.
• Herb Twist: Mix in fresh mint or parsley for a different herbal note.

Serving Suggestions

This Mexican Coleslaw With Cilantro Lime Dressing is perfect for:

• Tacos (chicken, beef, or fish)
• Grilled shrimp or salmon
• BBQ pulled pork sandwiches
• As a refreshing side for grilled vegetables or meats
• On top of tostadas or enchiladas for extra crunch

Why I Love This Recipe

As a female home cook, I love recipes that feel fresh and light but still pack incredible flavor. This slaw is one of those dishes — it’s quick, vibrant, and always gets compliments. The lime-cilantro dressing lifts simple vegetables into something truly memorable.

It’s also flexible — perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, prepare the slaw and dressing separately and toss together just before serving.

Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely. Jicama, cucumber, or radishes work beautifully.

Is this dairy-free?

Yes, omit the Greek yogurt or substitute with a plant-based yogurt.

How long will it keep?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

Final Thoughts

The Mexican Coleslaw With Cilantro Lime Dressing is a bright, refreshing, and easy-to-make side that elevates any meal. It’s crunchy, colorful, tangy, and slightly sweet — a perfect balance of textures and flavors.

Whether you’re pairing it with tacos, grilled meats, or serving it as a vibrant salad, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Light, healthy, and packed with flavor, this slaw is a dish you’ll make again and again.