This Creamy Cilantro Lime Coleslaw is a fresh and tasty side dish! It’s made with crisp cabbage, zesty lime juice, and a sprinkle of cilantro that adds a burst of flavor.
Trust me, this coleslaw is a crowd-pleaser. I love serving it at barbecues—it’s the perfect crunchy complement to grilled meats. So easy to whip up, you’ll wonder why you didn’t make it sooner!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shredded Green Cabbage: This is the main base for your coleslaw. You can use other types of cabbage, like purple or Napa, for a twist in flavor and color.
Shredded Carrots: Carrots add color and a bit of sweetness. If you don’t have fresh carrots, you can use pre-packaged coleslaw mix that often includes shredded carrots.
Fresh Cilantro: I love the fresh taste cilantro brings. If you’re not a fan, you could use parsley instead, which gives a similar green look without the strong flavor.
Mayonnaise & Sour Cream: They create the creamy texture. You can substitute Greek yogurt for a healthier twist or try vegan mayo for a dairy-free option.
Lime Juice: Freshness from lime juice is key. If limes aren’t available, bottled lime juice works, but fresh is always better!
How Do I Make Sure My Coleslaw Stays Crunchy?
To keep coleslaw crisp, it’s important to dress it just before serving. If you let it sit too long, cabbage can become wilted.
- Combine the cabbage, carrots, and cilantro in a bowl first.
- Make the dressing in a separate bowl, then mix it in right before serving.
- If you need to make it ahead of time, store the vegetables and dressing separately, and mix when ready to serve.
How to Make Creamy Cilantro Lime Coleslaw
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Slaw:
- 4 cups shredded green cabbage
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
For the Dressing:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sour cream
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice (about 1 lime)
- 1 teaspoon lime zest
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and another 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. So overall, you’re looking at about 40 minutes from start to table. It’s a quick and easy side dish, perfect for any meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Veggies:
In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, shredded carrots, and chopped cilantro. Make sure to mix them well so that you get a nice blend of flavors and colors.
2. Make the Creamy Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, fresh lime juice, lime zest, sugar, salt, and pepper. Keep whisking until the mixture is smooth and creamy—this is what will give your coleslaw that delightful taste!
3. Combine and Toss:
Pour the creamy dressing over the cabbage mixture. Use tongs or two large forks to toss everything together well. You want all the vegetables to be nicely coated in the creamy goodness!
4. Adjust and Chill:
Take a quick taste and adjust the seasoning if needed by adding a bit more salt, pepper, or lime juice. Now, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the coleslaw for at least 30 minutes. This chill time helps the flavors meld beautifully.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once your coleslaw is chilled, give it one last quick toss. Serve it in a bowl as a refreshing side dish, and enjoy the crunchy, vibrant flavors with your favorite meals!
Can I Use Pre-Packaged Coleslaw Mix?
Absolutely! A pre-packaged coleslaw mix is a great time-saver and usually includes shredded cabbage and carrots. Just add the desired amount to the creamy dressing and you’re good to go!
Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
Yes, you can substitute the mayonnaise and sour cream with dairy-free alternatives like avocado mayo or coconut yogurt. Adjust seasoning as needed to match your flavor preference!
How Long Will This Coleslaw Last in the Fridge?
Stored in an airtight container, the Creamy Cilantro Lime Coleslaw will stay fresh in the fridge for about 3 days. However, for the best crunch, it’s recommended to eat it within 1-2 days.
Can I Add Other Ingredients to This Coleslaw?
Definitely! Feel free to customize your coleslaw by adding ingredients like diced bell peppers, jalapeños for some heat, or even sliced almonds for an extra crunch. Just keep in mind that these additions may change the flavor profile a bit!
