Name: Cilantro Lime Taco Slaw
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Ingredients: ½ cup plain Greek yogurt; ¼ cup fresh lime juice; 1 tablespoon honey; ½ cup chopped cilantro; 2 tablespoons thinly sliced scallions; 1 teaspoon Kosher salt; ½ teaspoon cumin; ½ teaspoon black pepper; 1 jalapeno pepper, stemmed, seeded, and minced (optional); 14-16 oz. bag of coleslaw mix (or 6 cups shredded cabbage); Additional lime slices or wedges, sliced jalapeno, or chopped cilantro for garnish if desired

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When summer hits, one of my favorite go-to dishes is Cilantro Lime Taco Slaw. Picture a backyard barbecue, the sun shining, and the grill sizzling away. I can vividly remember the first time I whipped this up; it was a spontaneous creation inspired by a desire for something fresh and zesty to complement our tacos. The vibrant colors of the shredded cabbage and the bright green cilantro caught my eye, and I couldn’t wait to dive in. As the tangy lime juice mingled with the creamy Greek yogurt, I realized I had stumbled upon a perfect side dish that would not only enhance our main meal but also stand alone as a delightful salad. Every bite bursts with flavor, and the crunch of the coleslaw mix paired with the kick of jalapeño makes it irresistible. This dish has since become a staple at our summer gatherings, and I often find myself making extra just so I can enjoy the leftovers the next day.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
10 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
0 mins

Difficulty:
Easy

Calories:
150 kcal

Protein:
4 g

Diet:
Keto, Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
7 g

Tools Used:
Chef’s Knife, Mixing Bowl, Whisk

Why Try This Cilantro Lime Taco Slaw

1. Fresh and Flavorful

The combination of ingredients in Cilantro Lime Taco Slaw creates a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate. The zesty lime juice brings a refreshing tartness, while the creamy Greek yogurt adds a rich texture that brings everything together. It’s a balance that makes you crave more, especially on hot summer days.

2. Versatile Side Dish

This slaw isn’t just a taco companion; it’s versatile enough to complement a variety of dishes. Whether you’re serving grilled chicken, fish, or even veggie burgers, this slaw can elevate any meal. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to add more vegetables to your plate without sacrificing taste.

3. Quick and Easy Preparation

One of the reasons I adore this recipe is how quickly it comes together. With just a few minutes of prep, you can have a colorful and delicious salad ready to serve. This makes it ideal for last-minute gatherings when you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.

4. Healthy Ingredients

Not only does Cilantro Lime Taco Slaw taste amazing, but it’s also packed with wholesome ingredients. The use of fresh vegetables like cabbage and cilantro, combined with Greek yogurt instead of mayo, makes this dish lighter and healthier. It’s a guilt-free indulgence that you can feel good about serving.

5. Perfect for Meal Prep

This slaw is perfect for meal prep! It holds up well in the fridge, so you can make a big batch at the beginning of the week and enjoy it throughout. It’s a great addition to lunches, ensuring you have a nutritious and tasty option ready to go.

6. Crowd-Pleaser

Whenever I serve Cilantro Lime Taco Slaw, I can count on it being a hit. Friends and family often ask for the recipe, which is a testament to how delicious it is. It’s one of those dishes that’s hard to resist, making it perfect for entertaining.

What to Gather for Cilantro Lime Taco Slaw

The beauty of Cilantro Lime Taco Slaw lies in its simple yet fresh ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role, from the creamy base to the vibrant herbs and spices. Together, they create a unique flavor profile that’s not only delicious but also nutritious.

½ cup plain Greek yogurt – This creamy ingredient serves as a healthier alternative to traditional mayonnaise, adding richness while boosting protein content.
¼ cup fresh lime juice – The zestiness of lime juice brightens up the dish and pairs wonderfully with the other flavors.
1 tablespoon honey – A touch of sweetness to balance the tanginess of the lime and yogurt.
½ cup chopped cilantro – This herb adds freshness and a burst of flavor, making the slaw vibrant and aromatic.
2 tablespoons thinly sliced scallions – These provide a mild onion flavor without overwhelming the dish.
1 teaspoon Kosher salt – Essential for enhancing all the flavors in the slaw.
½ teaspoon cumin – This spice adds a warm, earthy note that complements the freshness of the slaw.
½ teaspoon black pepper – A pinch of pepper for a bit of kick.
1 jalapeno pepper, stemmed, seeded, and minced (optional) – For those who enjoy some heat, jalapeño adds a spicy kick.
14-16 oz. bag of coleslaw mix (or 6 cups shredded cabbage) – The main component that gives this slaw its crunch.
Additional lime slices or wedges, sliced jalapeno, or chopped cilantro for garnish if desired – These make for beautiful and flavorful garnishes.

How to Cook Cilantro Lime Taco Slaw

Making Cilantro Lime Taco Slaw is as easy as it is delicious! The steps are straightforward, and you’ll have a fresh side ready in no time. Let’s dive right into the preparation.

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, lime juice, honey, cilantro, scallions, salt, cumin, black pepper, and minced jalapeno, if using, until well combined. The mixture should be creamy and smooth, with the cilantro and scallions evenly distributed throughout.
Add the package of coleslaw mix to the bowl. Gently toss everything together until the cabbage is well-coated with the dressing. Make sure the slaw is colorful and evenly mixed, so every bite bursts with flavor.
Garnish with extra lime slices, sliced jalapeno, and chopped fresh cilantro, if desired. This not only adds visual appeal but also a fresh layer of flavor that enhances the overall dish.

Things Worth Knowing

Ingredient freshness matters: Always use the freshest vegetables for the best flavor and crunch.
Make ahead: This slaw can be made a day in advance. Just keep it refrigerated and give it a good stir before serving.
Adjust the heat: If you’re sensitive to spice, feel free to omit the jalapeño or reduce the amount you use.
Customize it: Add in other vegetables like bell peppers or shredded carrots for extra crunch and flavor.

Making Adjustments

Sometimes, you may want to tweak a recipe to fit your personal taste or dietary needs. Here are some tips for adjusting Cilantro Lime Taco Slaw to make it your own!

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Be aware that the cabbage may soften over time, but the flavors will continue to meld.
Freezing: It’s not recommended to freeze this slaw as the texture may change once thawed. However, you can freeze the dressing separately for future use.
Pairing: This slaw is perfect as a side dish for tacos, grilled chicken, or even as a topping on sandwiches or burgers.
Variations: Feel free to add in diced avocado for creaminess or some chopped nuts for an added crunch!
Serving size: Adjust the ingredient quantities depending on the number of servings you need.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving Cilantro Lime Taco Slaw, the possibilities are endless. Here are some ideas to elevate your meal:

With Tacos: Serve this slaw alongside your favorite tacos—chicken, beef, or veggie. The zesty flavor pairs beautifully with all kinds of fillings.
As a Salad: Enjoy it on its own as a light summer salad, perfect for lunch or a light dinner.
Barbecues: This slaw makes a fantastic addition to any barbecue or picnic. It’s refreshing and a great contrast to rich grilled meats.
Wraps and Sandwiches: Add a scoop of this slaw to wraps or sandwiches for a crunchy, flavorful kick.
Meal Prep: It holds up well in the fridge, making it a great choice for meal preppers looking for a healthy side throughout the week.
Seasonal Occasions: Perfect for summer gatherings, but also great for holidays or family events where fresh flavors are a must.

FAQ

Absolutely! You can prepare Cilantro Lime Taco Slaw a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator. The flavors will meld beautifully, and it will still taste fresh when you’re ready to serve. Just give it a good stir before serving to redistribute the dressing.

This slaw pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes! It’s an excellent side for tacos, grilled meats, or even burgers. You can also enjoy it on its own for a refreshing salad. Feel free to get creative and use it as a topping for wraps or sandwiches!

The heat level in Cilantro Lime Taco Slaw can be adjusted based on your preference. The jalapeño is optional, and you can simply omit it or reduce the amount if you prefer a milder flavor. The rest of the ingredients offer a zesty flavor without overwhelming spice.

Stored in an airtight container, Cilantro Lime Taco Slaw can last up to three days in the fridge. However, the cabbage may soften over time. It’s best enjoyed fresh, but the flavors do continue to improve as they meld together.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Cilantro Lime Taco Slaw is not just a side dish; it’s a vibrant celebration of flavors that can elevate any meal. Its freshness and tangy notes make it an instant favorite for summer gatherings. I encourage you to whip it up for your next barbecue or taco night—you won’t regret it!