Creamy Cilantro Lime Slaw: A Fresh and Tangy Side Dish
If you're looking for a vibrant, flavorful side dish that’s light yet packed with a zesty punch, this Creamy Cilantro Lime Slaw is just what you need! Made with fresh purple cabbage, cilantro, scallions, and a creamy dressing infused with lime and cumin, this slaw brings bold flavors to any meal. It’s the perfect companion to tacos, grilled meats, or even as a refreshing stand-alone salad.
Let’s dive into how to make this simple, delicious dish that can be ready in minutes!
Ingredients:
For the Coleslaw:
- 1 small head purple cabbage (core and outer leaves removed, finely shredded)
- 1 heaping teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ cup fresh cilantro (stems removed and chopped)
- 3-4 large scallions (thinly sliced)
- 1 large jalapeño (stem and seeds removed, julienned or minced)
For the Dressing:
- ¾ cup plain Greek yogurt (full fat recommended)
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon honey (raw honey recommended)
- 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice (from one large lime)
- 1 teaspoon lime zest (from that same large lime)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- Pepper to taste
Instructions:
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Prep the Cabbage: Shred your purple cabbage and place it in a large strainer over the sink. Sprinkle the kosher salt all over the cabbage and work it in with your hands. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes. This step allows the cabbage to become slightly limp, enhancing its texture for the slaw.
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Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, honey, fresh lime juice, lime zest, minced garlic, cumin, and pepper. Whisk until the dressing is smooth and creamy.
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Assemble the Slaw: In a large bowl, toss together the cilantro, scallions, jalapeño, and salted cabbage. Pour the creamy dressing over the slaw and stir everything to combine thoroughly.
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Serve: Your slaw is ready to be enjoyed immediately, or you can prepare it up to one day in advance for even more flavor. If made ahead, store it in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
This Creamy Cilantro Lime Slaw combines a refreshing crunch with a tangy, slightly sweet dressing that has a hint of spice. The yogurt-based dressing makes it light and healthy, while the mayonnaise adds richness, and the lime juice offers a bright citrusy kick. The fresh cilantro and jalapeño bring a burst of flavor, making this slaw a versatile side dish for tacos, burgers, grilled fish, or barbecued meats.
Tips for Success:
- Salt the Cabbage: Salting the cabbage helps break down its fibrous texture and enhances the overall flavor and texture of the slaw.
- Adjust Heat Levels: If you want extra spice, leave the seeds in the jalapeño or add a dash of cayenne pepper to the dressing.
- Customize the Dressing: For a more tangy flavor, you can increase the lime juice, or for a bit of sweetness, add more honey to taste.
Serving Suggestions:
- Tacos: This slaw makes the perfect topping for fish or shrimp tacos, adding a creamy, crunchy element.
- Grilled Meats: Serve it alongside grilled chicken, steak, or pork for a refreshing contrast to smoky flavors.
- Burgers: Use it as a topping on burgers for a fresh twist on a classic.
This Creamy Cilantro Lime Slaw is a go-to dish for any occasion. Its fresh, zesty flavors make it a crowd-pleaser that complements a variety of meals. Plus, it’s easy to make ahead of time, saving you time on the day of your gathering.