Mexican Slaw
A bright, crunchy, and refreshing slaw with a zesty, oil-free lime dressing. This vibrant side dish is the perfect healthy companion for tacos, enchiladas, or any grilled protein.
For 4 servings
Combine the vegetables
- In a large bowl, add the shredded green cabbage, shredded carrots, thinly sliced red onion, and chopped cilantro.
- Toss everything together until well combined.
Make the dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk together the fresh lime juice, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper.
Dress and serve
- Pour the lime dressing over the cabbage mixture.
- Toss well to ensure all the vegetables are evenly coated.
- For best flavor, let the slaw sit for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For extra crunch, add thinly sliced radishes or jicama.
- 2If you have time, let the slaw marinate in the fridge for 30 minutes. This softens the cabbage slightly and deepens the flavor.
- 3Use a mandoline for uniformly thin slices of cabbage and onion, but be careful with your fingers!
- 4This slaw is best eaten the same day but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Adapt it for your goals.
Healthy
Add 1/2 cup of black beans or roasted corn for extra fiber and protein. Note this will increase the calorie count.
kid friendlyKid friendly
Reduce the amount of red onion and add a teaspoon of agave nectar to the dressing to balance the tanginess of the lime.
quickQuick
Use a bag of pre-shredded coleslaw mix (cabbage and carrots) to save on prep time.
spicySpicy
Finely dice one jalapeño (seeds removed for less heat) and toss it in with the other vegetables for a spicy kick.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Fiber
Cabbage is an excellent source of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and promotes a healthy gut.
High in Vitamin C
Both cabbage and fresh lime juice are loaded with Vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that supports the immune system.
Low in Calories
This oil-free slaw is very low in calories, making it a great choice for weight management and healthy eating.
Source of Vitamin A
Carrots provide a good amount of Vitamin A (from beta-carotene), which is essential for vision health and immune function.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, this version of Mexican Slaw is very healthy. It's packed with fiber from the cabbage and carrots, vitamin C from the lime juice, and is completely oil-free and low in calories.



