Lime Cilantro Slaw
A zesty and refreshing slaw that brings a delightful crunch to any meal. Shredded cabbage, carrots, and red onion are tossed in a bright lime-cilantro dressing. Perfect for tacos, burrito bowls, or grilled meats.
For 4 servings
Combine the vegetables
- In a large bowl, add the shredded green cabbage, red cabbage, shredded carrots, and thinly sliced red onion.
- Add the freshly chopped cilantro to the bowl.
Make the dressing
- In a small bowl or jar, combine the fresh lime juice, olive oil, agave nectar, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper.
- Whisk or shake vigorously until the dressing is well combined and slightly emulsified.
Dress and chill the slaw
- Pour the lime-cilantro dressing over the vegetable mixture in the large bowl.
- Toss everything together until the vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing.
- For the best flavor, cover the bowl and let the slaw chill in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together.
Serve
- Give the slaw one final toss before serving to redistribute the dressing.
- Serve chilled as a side for tacos, burrito bowls, or grilled dishes.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the crunchiest slaw, dress it just before serving. If you prefer a softer texture, let it marinate for 30-60 minutes.
- 2Use a mandoline slicer for uniformly thin red onion slices.
- 3If you don't have agave, you can use a pinch of sugar or a little honey to balance the acidity of the lime.
- 4This slaw is a great make-ahead side dish. You can prepare the vegetables and dressing separately and combine them when you're ready to serve.
- 5For a spicy kick, add one finely minced jalapeño (seeds removed for less heat) to the slaw.
Adapt it for your goals.
Spicy
Add 1 finely diced jalapeño or 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the dressing for a bit of heat.
healthyHealthy
For a creamier but still healthy version, whisk in 2 tablespoons of plain Greek yogurt into the dressing.
high proteinHigh protein
Add 1/2 cup of roasted pepitas (pumpkin seeds) or toasted sunflower seeds for extra crunch and protein.
quickQuick
To save time, use a 14-ounce bag of pre-shredded coleslaw mix instead of shredding the cabbage and carrots yourself.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Fiber
Cabbage and carrots are excellent sources of dietary fiber, which promotes healthy digestion and can help you feel full and satisfied.
Excellent Source of Vitamin C
Fresh lime juice and cilantro provide a significant amount of Vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that supports a healthy immune system and skin health.
Low in Calories
This slaw is light and refreshing, making it a great way to add volume, crunch, and nutrients to your meal without adding significant calories.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, it's very healthy. It's packed with fiber from cabbage and carrots, vitamin C from lime, and uses minimal oil, making it a low-calorie, nutrient-dense side dish perfect for a balanced meal.
