If you’re searching for a burst of fresh, zesty flavor to instantly brighten up your table, Cilantro Lime Slaw is truly a game-changer. This easy, colorful side dish brings together crisp cabbage, sweet carrots, and plenty of fresh cilantro with a creamy, tangy dressing that’s sure to wake up your taste buds. Whether you’re piling it on tacos, pairing it with grilled meats, or simply enjoying it as a refreshing salad, this Cilantro Lime Slaw always manages to steal the spotlight at parties, picnics, and regular weeknight dinners alike.

Cilantro Lime Slaw Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Cilantro Lime Slaw lies in its simple, vibrant ingredients. Each one plays a key role in delivering crunch, color, or that irresistible zip of flavor. Here’s what you’ll need, plus a tip for getting the most out of every element:

Green cabbage: Brings classic slaw crunch and acts as the refreshing base for all the vibrant flavors.
Purple cabbage: Adds eye-catching color and an extra crispy bite—shred it finely for the best texture.
Carrots: Sweetens the mix and gives your slaw that gorgeous pop of orange throughout.
Fresh cilantro: Offers a signature herby punch—don’t be shy, this is where the dish gets its name!
Green onions: Delivers a mild, oniony bite that layers in more subtle flavor.
Mayonnaise: Provides the creamy backbone of the dressing—use a high-quality mayo for best results.
Plain Greek yogurt (optional): For extra tang and creaminess without a lot of added fat—swap entirely for mayo for a lighter version!
Zest and juice of 2 limes: The real star! Zest adds big citrus aroma, while juice brings all the zingy brightness.
Honey: A touch of sweetness perfectly balances the tart and savory flavors.
Apple cider vinegar: Adds sharp acidity for that classic slaw tang—don’t skip it!
Garlic powder: Gives the background depth, mingling softly with the other flavors.
Salt: Brings all the ingredients together and helps draw out their natural flavors.
Black pepper: A classic finish—add more to taste if you like a little extra bite.

How to Make Cilantro Lime Slaw

Step 1: Prepare the Veggies

Start by shredding your green cabbage, purple cabbage, and carrots if you haven’t bought them pre-shredded. Chop the cilantro and slice your green onions thinly—this ensures every bite is loaded with fresh flavor. Toss all these veggies into a large mixing bowl. The key here is to get everything fairly uniform in size, so when you take a forkful, you get a little bit of everything.

Step 2: Whisk Together the Dressing

In a small bowl, combine your mayonnaise, Greek yogurt (if using), lime zest and juice, honey, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Whisk it up until the dressing is smooth and creamy. Don’t rush this step—a well-blended dressing will coat your veggies better, ensuring each forkful is perfectly balanced, tangy, and just the right amount of creamy.

Step 3: Toss It All Together

Pour the creamy dressing right over your prepared veggies and herbs. Grab a pair of tongs and gently toss until everything is thoroughly and evenly coated. The colors will really start popping now, and you’ll catch that first whiff of cilantro and lime—it’s impossible not to sneak a taste already!

Step 4: Let the Flavors Meld

As tempting as it is to dig in right away, cover the bowl and refrigerate your Cilantro Lime Slaw for at least 20 minutes. This short rest lets the dressing soak into the veggies, softening them just a touch and marrying all the flavors together. Trust me, this makes a world of difference!

How to Serve Cilantro Lime Slaw

Garnishes

To really make your Cilantro Lime Slaw shine, sprinkle a few extra cilantro leaves or sliced green onions on top right before serving. For a little extra crunch and color, try scattering toasted pepitas or even a few thin jalapeño slices if you want to add some heat! The garnish transforms your slaw from a simple side to a showstopper.

Side Dishes

This slaw is a natural partner for all things grilled—think chicken, fish, shrimp, or tacos. It also pairs beautifully with pulled pork sandwiches, barbecue platters, or even as a refreshing addition to a grain bowl. Plus, since it’s light and crunchy, it balances out any rich or spicy main dish without overwhelming your palate.

Creative Ways to Present

Besides classic taco or sandwich toppings, try piling Cilantro Lime Slaw onto tostadas, layering it in wraps, or serving it in lettuce cups for a fun, low-carb appetizer. For summer cookouts, serve individual portions in colorful jars or cups to wow your guests with both convenience and presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Your Cilantro Lime Slaw will keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. As it sits, the veggies might soften a little more, but the flavors will continue to evolve, making tomorrow’s leftovers almost as delicious as day one!

Freezing

While most creamy slaws don’t freeze well due to changes in texture, Cilantro Lime Slaw is best enjoyed fresh or stored in the fridge. Freezing can make the veggies watery and the dressing separate, so stick with making just what you’ll use up in a few days for the best bite every time.

Reheating

No need to reheat—this slaw is meant to be enjoyed perfectly chilled! If you find any separation after storing, just give it a quick toss to bring everything back together before serving.

FAQs

Can I make Cilantro Lime Slaw in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare it up to a day ahead. Just cover and refrigerate. In fact, a little extra time in the fridge allows the flavors to meld beautifully. If needed, give it a quick toss before serving to freshen it up.

Is there a substitute for mayonnaise?

Yes! You can use all Greek yogurt for a lighter version, or opt for a vegan mayo if you want to skip eggs. The main goal is to keep that creamy texture so the dressing clings to the veggies.

How spicy can I make this slaw?

Make it as mild or fiery as you like! Add a diced jalapeño for moderate heat or swap in a serrano pepper for even more kick. Keep the seeds in for extra spice, or remove them for a gentler touch.

Will the slaw get soggy if I store it overnight?

The veggies will soften a bit, but the slaw stays crunchy if you don’t overdress it and store it properly. If storing more than a day, consider keeping the dressing separate and tossing just before serving for maximum crunch.

Is Cilantro Lime Slaw gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as written. Just double-check any packaged ingredients, like mayonnaise or Greek yogurt, to ensure they’re certified gluten-free if this is important for your diet.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re hosting a backyard taco night or looking to liven up a weeknight salad, Cilantro Lime Slaw is a joyful, flavor-packed addition to just about any meal. Give it a try and enjoy that fresh, zesty crunch—your guests (and your tastebuds!) will thank you.

Cilantro Lime Slaw Recipe

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4.7 from 25 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 15 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten-Free, Vegetarian

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Description

A refreshing and vibrant Cilantro Lime Slaw that’s perfect as a side dish or taco topping. This crunchy slaw features a mix of green and purple cabbage, carrots, cilantro, and a zesty lime dressing.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Slaw Ingredients:

4 cups shredded green cabbage
1 cup shredded purple cabbage
1 cup shredded carrots
1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
2 green onions sliced

Dressing:

1/4 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt (optional)
zest and juice of 2 limes
1 tablespoon honey
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

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Instructions

Prepare the Slaw: In a large bowl, combine shredded green cabbage, purple cabbage, carrots, cilantro, and green onions.
Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, lime zest and juice, honey, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
Combine: Pour the dressing over the slaw and toss well until coated.
Chill: Cover and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes to let flavors meld.
Serve: Serve chilled as a side dish or taco topping.