Bright, zesty, and irresistibly crunchy, this Mexican Coleslaw will be your new favorite sidekick for Taco Tuesday or any festive gathering.
Mexican coleslaw takes a beloved classic and gives it a south-of-the-border flair. While traditional coleslaw leans heavily on creamy dressings, this version swaps the mayonnaise for a tangy olive oil and lime juice dressing, seasoned with cumin and cilantro. The result is a fresh and vibrant dish that pairs beautifully with Mexican-inspired meals.
Legend has it that coleslaw’s origins date back to ancient Rome, where cabbage salads were prepared with vinegar and spices. Over time, the dish evolved into countless regional variations. The Mexican twist on coleslaw showcases the country’s love for bold flavors and simple, wholesome ingredients. Whether you’re hosting a picnic or preparing a weeknight dinner, this recipe is a surefire crowd-pleaser.
Is Mexican Coleslaw Healthy?
This Mexican coleslaw uses nutrient-packed ingredients that make it a lighter choice compared to traditional coleslaw. Olive oil provides a source of healthy fats, and the mix of fresh vegetables offers fiber, vitamins, and minerals. The absence of heavy mayonnaise keeps the dish light and refreshing. It’s perfect for balancing richer main courses.
Cumin: A Small Spice With Big Impact
Cumin is a key ingredient that elevates this coleslaw. Native to the Middle East but embraced worldwide, cumin adds an earthy depth and warmth to the dish. Its distinct flavor complements the bright taste of lime and the freshness of cilantro, creating a well-rounded profile that makes this slaw really stand out.
Although this recipe calls for ground cumin, easily available in a jar, you can also take an extra step and elevate the flavor of this dish by using toasted, freshly ground cumin. To toast cumin seeds, start by heating a small, dry skillet (preferably stainless-steel or cast-iron) over medium heat for one to two minutes. Add the cumin seeds to the hot pan, spreading them out in a single layer. Stir or shake the pan gently every 10–15 seconds to ensure even toasting and prevent burning. The seeds will become fragrant and slightly darker, which usually takes about one to two minutes. Once toasted, immediately transfer the seeds to a cool plate to stop the cooking process. Let them cool and grind them using a mortar and pestle or spice grinder for a more intense flavor. This extra step brings out the spice’s natural oils and earthy richness, adding a deeper, more vibrant flavor to your Mexican coleslaw.
How To Make Ahead And Store
The slaw will keep in the fridge for up to 4 days. Freezing is not recommended.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this Mexican coleslaw with Ground Chicken Tacos or serve alongside Green Chicken Enchiladas for a complete meal. Having people over for Taco Tuesday and don’t want to put out only one salad? Pair the Mexican coleslaw with this heartier Mexican Corn Salad With Honey-Lime Shrimp. You can never have too many salads, right? For a beverage, a Cadillac Margarita complements the zesty flavors perfectly.
Recipe
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup red onion thinly sliced, with a pinch of salt
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 3 tablespoons lime juice equal to one lime
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 2 cups purple cabbage finely shaved
- 2 cups green cabbage finely shaved
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves
Instructions
- In a small bowl, combine the sliced red onion and red wine vinegar. Let it soak for at least 20 minutes to soften and mellow the onion's flavor, and then drain. You don't need to reserve the vinegar.
- In a large serving bowl, whisk together the olive oil, honey, lime juice, salt, and cumin to make the dressing.
- Add the purple cabbage, green cabbage, drained red onion, and cilantro leaves to the serving bowl.
- Toss everything together until the vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing.
- Serve immediately or let it sit for 10–15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Nutrition Info:
Recipes written and produced on Food Faith Fitness are for informational purposes only.
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