Refresh your coleslaw game with this vibrant Zesty Cilantro Lime Coleslaw. This recipe steers away from the traditional mayo-based slaw and brings to life a blend of zesty lime, fresh cilantro, and crisp vegetables. Perfect for hot summer days, barbecues, or as a crunchy accompaniment to your favorite tacos, this no-mayo coleslaw will become your new go-to side dish!
Why No Mayo?
Many find traditional coleslaw too heavy due to the mayonnaise, making it less appealing for warmer weather or dietary preferences. Here’s why you’ll love this mayo-free version:
- Healthier: Without the mayo, you reduce the fat content and create a lighter dish.
- Fresh Flavor: Lime juice and cilantro offer a bright, zesty taste that complements the vegetables.
- Versatility: This coleslaw pairs well with a variety of dishes, from grilled meats to seafood, enhancing flavors instead of overpowering them.
- Shelf Life: It lasts longer in the fridge without the risk of mayonnaise spoiling quickly.
Ingredients
- 1 small cabbage, shredded
- 2 carrots, grated
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1⁄2 cup of fresh cilantro, chopped
- 3 limes, juice and zest
- 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons of honey or agave nectar
- 1⁄4 cup of olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1 jalapeño, finely chopped for some heat
Instructions
Preparation
- Shred the Cabbage: Begin by slicing the cabbage into thin strips. You can use a knife, a mandoline slicer, or a food processor with a shredding disc.
- Grate the Carrots: Peel and grate the carrots using a box grater or a food processor.
- Slice the Red Bell Pepper: Thinly slice the bell pepper to maintain a consistent texture throughout the salad.
- Chop the Cilantro: Roughly chop the cilantro, ensuring you leave some larger pieces for visual appeal.
Making the Dressing
- Zest and Juice the Limes: Zest the limes before juicing them to capture all that flavorful zest. Juice the limes into a bowl.
- Mix the Dressing: To the lime juice, add apple cider vinegar, honey or agave nectar, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Whisk together until well combined.
Assembling the Coleslaw
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, grated carrots, sliced bell pepper, and chopped cilantro.
- Add the Dressing: Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss everything together to coat evenly.
- Chill: Allow the coleslaw to marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This step helps the flavors to meld together.
- Serve: When ready to serve, give the coleslaw a final toss and garnish with extra cilantro or a lime wedge for presentation.
🍋 Note: The coleslaw can be made ahead of time, but for the freshest taste, it's best served within a day or two. The flavors intensify over time, which can be a delightful change!
Before you dive into making this refreshing coleslaw, consider how it brings a unique twist to traditional recipes, offering a healthier alternative with an invigorating taste. Its versatility allows it to serve not only as a side dish but also as a standalone salad or a topping for various meals. This zesty cilantro lime coleslaw not only satisfies your taste buds but also adds a visual flair to your table, making it a must-try this season!
Can I make this coleslaw ahead of time?
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Yes, you can make this coleslaw ahead of time. It will keep well in the fridge for up to two days. Just give it a good toss before serving to redistribute the dressing.
Is this coleslaw suitable for vegetarians?
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Yes, this coleslaw recipe is vegetarian-friendly as it doesn’t contain any meat or animal by-products.
What can I serve this coleslaw with?
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This coleslaw goes well with:
- Tacos, particularly fish or shrimp tacos
- BBQ ribs or grilled chicken
- Seafood, like grilled or fried fish
- As a refreshing side at a picnic or barbecue
Related Terms:
- Coleslaw
- Mayones
- Kubis
- Pico de Gallo
- Guacamole
- Kartoffelsalat
