Mexican Slaw is my go-to side dish for any meal. I love its mix of crunchy vegetables and zesty lime dressing. It’s perfect for adding a refreshing kick to tacos or grilled meats.
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Mexican Slaw Recipe
Mexican Slaw is a fresh, vibrant twist on traditional coleslaw, inspired by Mexican flavors. It typically features shredded cabbage, carrots, other crunchy vegetables, and tangy dressing.
Unlike classic coleslaw, it’s lighter and zestier. It is often served as a topping for tacos, burritos, enchiladas, and burgers. It also works as a refreshing side dish for grilled meats, chili, or barbecue.
This side dish is a favorite in Tex-Mex cuisine and potlucks due to its versatility and ease of preparation. Here’s how to make the Mexican Slaw:
Mexican Slaw
Ingredients
- 4 cups shredded green cabbage
- 1 cup shredded purple cabbage optional, for color
- 1 cup carrots julienned or shredded
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro chopped
- 1 jalapeño finely diced (remove seeds for less heat)
- 1/4 cup red onion finely sliced
- 1/2 cup fresh lime juice about 2 limes
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar or white vinegar
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt or to taste
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp honey or maple syrup optional, for a touch of sweetness
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the green cabbage, purple cabbage, carrots, cilantro, jalapeño, and red onion.
- In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, cumin, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and honey (if using).
- Pour the dressing over the slaw and toss everything together until evenly coated.
- Cover and let the slaw sit for at least 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. For best results, chill in the fridge for 30 minutes before serving.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve as a refreshing side dish or as a crunchy taco topping!
Notes
- Add corn, black beans, or avocado for extra texture.
- Store it in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Pairs well with tacos, grilled meats, or fish.
Nutrition
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Pairing suggestions
Mexican slaw goes well with many foods to add a fresh, crunchy, and flavorful element to meals. Here are some popular options:
- Food Pairings:
- Mexican slaw is a great topping for tacos or burrito bowls.
- It pairs well with enchiladas for a refreshing contrast.
- It complements warm bowls of chili, such as vegetarian, white chicken, or chicken chili.
- It goes well with layered chicken enchilada casserole and Mexican chicken casserole.
- Grilled chicken or fish is a great pair.
- Drink Pairings:
- Agua fresca adds a delightful twist to meals.
- Fresh fruit spritzers complement the slaw.
- Lime daiquiris are perfect for summer gatherings.
- Fresh limeade pairs well with the dish.
- Iced tea with lime complements the slaw’s citrus notes.
- Mexican beer pairs well with this salad.
Variations
Mexican slaw comes in many variations. Here are some popular adaptations:
- Dressing Options
- Classic dressings include lime juice with oil.
- Creamy dressings use mayo or sour cream.
- Unique dressings feature honey-chipotle or avocado.
- Flavor Enhancements
- Green onions or parsley is a great choice besides cilantro.
- Spices like chili powder add heat.
- Citrus zest enhances flavor.
- Add-ins
- Proteins make slaws more filling.
- Pepitas, corn, and tomatoes add texture.
- Special Variations
- Vegan slaws use vinegar-based dressings.
- Keto slaws use low-carb vegetables.