This creamy cilantro lime coleslaw is a fun twist on the classic side dish! With fresh cilantro and a zesty lime dressing, it adds a bright burst of flavor to any meal.
Perfect for barbecues or tacos, it’s super easy to whip up. I love how the crunch from the cabbage and the creaminess of the dressing make every bite delightful!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cabbage: A mix of green and red cabbage provides great color and crunch. If you’re looking for a low-carb option, you can use shredded kale instead!
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro is key for that bright flavor. If you’re not a fan, try swapping it for parsley or green onions for a different twist.
Mayonnaise & Sour Cream: These create a creamy texture. For a lighter version, use Greek yogurt in place of both; it gives a nice tang while cutting calories.
Lime Juice & Zest: Fresh lime juice is best for that zesty kick! If fresh limes are out of season, bottled lime juice can work, but fresh is always preferred for flavor.
Honey or Agave: I love honey for its natural sweetness, but agave syrup is a perfect vegan alternative!
How Do I Make Sure My Coleslaw Is Creamy and Flavorful?
To get a rich and flavorful coleslaw, focus on your dressing! Start by whisking the mayonnaise and sour cream until smooth; this avoids clumps. Then, gradually add lime juice and zest. The lime brings brightness while balancing the creaminess.
- For the veggies, make sure they are finely shredded. This helps them absorb the dressing better.
- Let the coleslaw chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving. It allows flavors to mingle beautifully!
- Give it a good toss just before serving to redistribute the dressing, ensuring every bite is equally tasty.
Creamy Cilantro Lime Coleslaw with Zesty Flavor
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Vegetable Base:
- 4 cups green cabbage, finely shredded
- 1 cup red cabbage, finely shredded
- 1 large carrot, julienned or shredded
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
Dressing:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp sour cream
- 2 tbsp fresh lime juice (about 1 lime)
- 1 tsp lime zest
- 1 tsp honey or agave syrup
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1/4 tsp salt, or to taste
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful coleslaw recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time, with an additional 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. In just a little over 45 minutes, you’ll have a flavorful side dish ready to impress!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Vegetables:
In a large bowl, combine the finely shredded green cabbage, red cabbage, and julienned or shredded carrot. This colorful mix will add crunch and vibrance to your coleslaw!
2. Add the Fresh Herbs:
Next, add the chopped cilantro leaves to the vegetable mixture. Toss everything together gently to ensure the cilantro is well distributed among the cabbage and carrot.
3. Make the Creamy Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, fresh lime juice, lime zest, honey or agave syrup, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper. Mix until everything is smooth and creamy, creating a delicious dressing to elevate your slaw.
4. Combine and Coat:
Pour the creamy dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss everything thoroughly until all the vegetables are evenly coated. Make sure that every bite will have that zesty, creamy flavor!
5. Taste and Adjust:
Give your coleslaw a taste. You can adjust the flavor by adding a little more salt, pepper, or lime juice based on your preference.
6. Chill for Flavor:
Cover the bowl and refrigerate the coleslaw for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time lets the flavors meld together beautifully, making it even tastier!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Before serving, toss the coleslaw again to ensure everything is well mixed. If you’d like, garnish with a few extra cilantro leaves or lime wedges for a fresh touch. Enjoy this creamy cilantro lime coleslaw as a refreshing side dish to accompany grilled meats, tacos, or sandwiches, or even as a delightful snack!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Pre-Packaged Coleslaw Mix?
Absolutely! Using a pre-packaged coleslaw mix is a convenient option. Just ensure it has a good balance of cabbage and carrots. You can add the chopped cilantro and dressing as instructed for a delicious twist.
Can I Make This Coleslaw Vegan?
Yes! To make this coleslaw vegan, substitute the mayonnaise and sour cream with vegan alternatives. Look for plant-based mayo and coconut or almond yogurt for a creamy texture without dairy.
How Long Will Leftovers Last?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, but keep in mind the coleslaw may soften over time. Give it a good toss before serving!
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other veggies like bell peppers, radishes, or corn for extra crunch and flavor. Just make sure to adjust the dressing quantity if you significantly increase the volume of vegetables!
