Lime Cabbage Slaw
Crisp, tangy, and incredibly refreshing, this simple slaw is the perfect counterpoint to rich, smoky Tex-Mex dishes. Ready in minutes, it's a vibrant mix of crunchy cabbage, sweet carrots, zesty lime, and fresh cilantro.
For 4 servings
Prepare the vegetables
- In a large bowl, add the finely shredded green cabbage.
- Add the grated carrots to the bowl.
- Add the chopped cilantro and minced jalapeño.
Make the lime dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk together the fresh lime juice, olive oil, and agave nectar.
- Add the salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Whisk again until the dressing is well combined.
Combine and serve
- Pour the dressing over the cabbage and carrot mixture.
- Toss everything together until the vegetables are evenly coated.
- For best flavor, let the slaw sit for at least 10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the best texture, shred your own cabbage and carrots instead of buying pre-shredded mixes.
- 2Always use freshly squeezed lime juice. The bottled kind doesn't have the same bright, zesty flavor.
- 3Letting the slaw rest for 10-15 minutes allows the salt to soften the cabbage slightly and the flavors to meld beautifully.
- 4This slaw is best eaten the same day but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- 5Serve this slaw with tacos, grilled chicken, pulled pork sandwiches, or as a side for any barbecue.
Adapt it for your goals.
Quick
To save time, use a 16-ounce bag of pre-shredded coleslaw mix instead of shredding your own cabbage and carrots.
healthyHealthy
For a lower-fat version, reduce the olive oil to 1 tablespoon. The slaw will be slightly more tart.
kid friendlyKid friendly
Omit the jalapeño to make it completely mild. You can also add a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup for a slightly sweeter taste.
high proteinHigh protein
Add 1/2 cup of toasted pumpkin seeds (pepitas) or black beans for a boost of protein and texture.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Vitamin C
Both cabbage and lime juice are excellent sources of Vitamin C, an antioxidant that supports a healthy immune system.
High in Fiber
Cabbage and carrots provide a good amount of dietary fiber, which is essential for digestive health and helps you feel full.
Hydrating and Low-Calorie
With a high water content and low calorie count, this slaw is a great choice for a light, hydrating side dish.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, it's a very healthy side dish. It's packed with fiber from the cabbage and carrots, vitamin C from the lime juice, and uses a light olive oil dressing instead of heavy mayonnaise.