Cilantro Lime Coleslaw

This cilantro lime coleslaw is the perfect balance of crunch and tang, and it’s ready in a snap. Whether you’re looking for a refreshing side dish to pair with barbecue, tacos, or a summer picnic, this coleslaw recipe is a crowd-pleaser that brings fresh flavors to any meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: Spend minimal time in the kitchen with a recipe that takes only a few minutes to prepare and serve.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: This coleslaw is perfect for meal prep. Prepare it in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to serve, making it ideal for hosting events or family dinners.
• Customizable: Not a fan of cilantro? No problem! Swap it out or add extra veggies like carrots, bell peppers, or onions to make the recipe your own.

Ingredients & Substitutions

Mayonnaise: The base of the creamy dressing. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use Greek yogurt or a low-fat mayo.

Sour Cream: Adds tanginess to the dressing. You can substitute with plain Greek yogurt for a healthier twist.

Lime: You’ll need the zest and juice for that bright, citrusy flavor. Fresh lime works best, but bottled lime juice can be used in a pinch.

White Vinegar: Adds a subtle tang to the coleslaw. Apple cider vinegar or rice vinegar can also work here.

Sugar: Just a pinch to balance the tanginess. Feel free to adjust to taste or substitute with honey.

Cilantro: Adds fresh, herbaceous notes. If you’re not a cilantro fan, you can swap it out for parsley or omit it altogether.

Cabbage: I used green cabbage, but you can mix it up with red cabbage, Napa cabbage, or a bag of pre-shredded coleslaw mix for convenience.

Salt & Pepper: Season to taste for balance and flavor.

How to Make Cilantro Lime Coleslaw

Step 1: Make the Dressing

• In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 1/4 cup sour cream, the zest of one lime, lime juice, 1 tablespoon white vinegar, 1 teaspoon sugar, and 1/4 cup chopped cilantro. Mix until the dressing is smooth and creamy.

Step 2: Toss with Cabbage

• In a large mixing bowl, add your shredded cabbage (about 4 cups). Pour the cilantro lime dressing over the cabbage and toss to combine. You can also add extra veggies like shredded carrots or sliced bell peppers for more color and crunch.

Step 3: Season and Chill

• Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!

• Serve the coleslaw chilled, ideally with fried fish tacos, grilled meats, or alongside your favorite summer BBQ dishes.

Tips for Success

• Experiment with Cabbage: For a colorful twist, try using a mix of red cabbage, Napa cabbage, or even a bagged coleslaw mix to save time.
• Make it Vegan: To make this recipe vegan, simply swap the mayonnaise and sour cream for your favorite plant-based alternatives.
• Chill Before Serving: Letting the coleslaw sit in the fridge for at least an hour enhances the flavors, making it even better when served cold.

What to Serve with Cilantro Lime Coleslaw

This cilantro lime coleslaw is a great addition to many meals. Here are some ideas:

• Fish Tacos: The tangy crunch perfectly complements crispy fried fish.
• Barbecue: Serve it alongside grilled chicken, ribs, or pulled pork.
• Burgers: Use it as a topping for burgers for extra texture and flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this coleslaw ahead of time? Yes! This coleslaw can be made up to a day in advance. Just keep it refrigerated in an airtight container.

What can I substitute for cilantro? If you’re not a fan of cilantro, you can swap it for fresh parsley, or simply leave it out and let the lime and vinegar do the work.

How do I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 3 days.