This Easy Mexican Coleslaw is a crunchy, colorful mix of cabbage, carrots, and zesty lime juice. It’s a vibrant side dish that adds a fresh kick to any meal!
Honestly, I can’t get enough of this slaw! It’s perfect with tacos or grilled chicken. Plus, it’s super quick to whip up—just toss everything together and enjoy! 🌮🥗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cabbage: Green cabbage is the star of this coleslaw. It’s crunchy and holds up well with the dressing. If you’re looking for a twist, consider using purple cabbage for a pop of color or even napa cabbage for a milder flavor.
Carrots: Shredded carrots add sweetness and color. You can use pre-shredded carrots to save time. Otherwise, feel free to substitute with other veggies like bell peppers for extra crunch and flavor.
Red Onion: This gives a nice bite to the slaw. If red onion is too strong for you, try using green onions or scallions for a milder taste.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro brings that authentic Mexican flavor. If you’re not a fan, you could replace it with parsley, but keep in mind it won’t have the same zest.
Jalapeño: This ingredient adds spice. If you prefer no heat, simply skip it, or use a pinch of cayenne pepper if you want just a hint of warmth.
Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice brightens the flavors. If limes aren’t available, lemon juice can work in a pinch.
How Do You Make Coleslaw Creamy Without It Being Heavy?
To achieve a creamy coleslaw without it being too heavy, balance your dressing. Combine mayonnaise with lime juice and apple cider vinegar—this helps cut through the richness. If you want it even lighter, use Greek yogurt or sour cream instead of mayo for a tangy twist.
- Combine the creamy elements well to ensure an even coating.
- Taste as you go! Adjust the acidity by adding more lime or vinegar if needed.
- Letting the slaw sit in the fridge helps the flavors mix, and the veggies soften slightly, making it irresistible.
Easy Mexican Coleslaw with Fresh Flavor
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Coleslaw:
- 4 cups shredded green cabbage
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 cup finely chopped red onion
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped (optional for heat)
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
- 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time. Plus, you’ll want to refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors develop. In total, you can have this refreshing coleslaw ready in under an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Vegetables:
In a large bowl, add the shredded green cabbage, shredded carrots, finely chopped red onion, fresh cilantro, and chopped jalapeño (if you’re adding heat). Mix them gently with a spatula to combine.
2. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the fresh lime juice, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, ground cumin, chili powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Keep whisking until everything is smooth and well blended.
3. Combine the Mixtures:
Pour the dressing over the prepared vegetable mixture. Toss everything together thoroughly to ensure all the veggies are coated evenly with the dressing.
4. Adjust the Seasoning:
Take a taste of your coleslaw! If it needs a little more flavor, add more salt, pepper, or lime juice until it’s just right for your taste buds.
5. Chill Before Serving:
Cover the coleslaw and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This step really allows all the flavors to meld together and gives a refreshing taste.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once chilled, serve your Mexican coleslaw as a crunchy and vibrant side dish alongside tacos, grilled meats, or any Mexican-inspired meal. Enjoy the fresh flavor!
FAQs About Easy Mexican Coleslaw
Can I Use Pre-Packaged Coleslaw Mix?
Absolutely! Using a pre-packaged coleslaw mix is a great time-saver. Just make sure it includes green cabbage, carrots, and any other veggies you like. You can skip the shredding step entirely!
How Can I Make This Coleslaw Vegan?
To make this coleslaw vegan, simply swap the mayonnaise for a plant-based alternative like vegan mayo or blended silken tofu. You can also use a dressing of olive oil and vinegar for a lighter option.
Can I Make This Coleslaw Ahead of Time?
Yes! This coleslaw can be made a day ahead. Just store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container. The flavors will develop even more as it sits, making it taste even better!
How Do I Store Leftover Coleslaw?
Store any leftover coleslaw in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s best to consume it within this time frame for optimal freshness and crunch!
