This Mexican coleslaw, or taco coleslaw, is a crunchy and fresh twist on a classic side dish. Packed with colorful veggies, zesty lime, and a hint of spice, it complements any taco night perfectly!
I love that it adds a crunch while balancing out the flavors of tacos. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up—just toss everything together and enjoy the party on your plate! 🌮🥗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cabbage: Both green and red cabbage offer crunch and color. If you can’t find red cabbage, feel free to just double up on green. Napa cabbage is also a gentler alternative that is slightly sweeter.
Carrots: Shredded carrots add sweetness and brightness. You could swap them with other veggies like shredded zucchini or even diced apples for a different twist!
Corn: You can use canned or frozen corn here. If you’re avoiding corn, try using diced bell pepper or peas for a similar texture.
Mayonnaise: My go-to is regular mayonnaise, but you can try Greek yogurt or a vegan mayo for dairy-free options. Both alternatives will give it a nice creaminess!
Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice gives a refreshing zing. If limes aren’t handy, lemon juice works well too!
How Do I Ensure My Coleslaw is Well-Mixed and Full of Flavor?
Mixing the coleslaw properly is key to a delicious dish. Start by combining all the veggies in a large bowl. Toss them well to ensure an even distribution. Next, the dressing is significant for bringing everything together.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the mayonnaise, lime juice, and taco seasoning until smooth.
- Gradually pour the dressing over the veggie mix, tossing as you go. This helps coat everything evenly!
- Letting it chill allows the flavors to meld beautifully, so don’t skip the refrigerator time. It’ll taste even better after it’s had a chance to rest.
How to Make Mexican Coleslaw (Taco Coleslaw)
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Slaw:
- 4 cups green cabbage, shredded
- 1 cup red cabbage, shredded
- 1 cup carrots, shredded
- 1 cup corn (canned or frozen, thawed)
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
For the Dressing:
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Mexican coleslaw will take about 15 minutes to prepare and needs at least 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. In total, you’ll spend about 45 minutes before it’s ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Veggies:
Start by gathering a large bowl. In it, combine your shredded green cabbage, red cabbage, shredded carrots, corn, diced red bell pepper, finely chopped red onion, and chopped cilantro. Toss everything together gently until all the vegetables are mixed well.
2. Prepare the Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, add the mayonnaise, lime juice, taco seasoning, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Whisk everything together until it’s smooth and well combined. This will be the creamy dressing that brings all the flavors together!
3. Dress the Slaw:
Now, pour the dressing over your mixed vegetables. Toss gently to ensure every piece is coated with that delicious dressing. Take your time with this step to make sure it’s all mixed evenly!
4. Chill and Serve:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator. Let it chill for at least 30 minutes. This step is important because it allows the flavors to meld and develop. Once chilled, you can serve it as a fresh side dish or use it as a tasty topping for your tacos. Enjoy your delicious taco coleslaw!
Can I Use Different Types of Cabbage?
Absolutely! While this recipe uses green and red cabbage, you can substitute Napa cabbage or Savoy cabbage for a different texture and flavor. Just remember to shred it finely for an even distribution in your coleslaw.
How Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
You can easily make this recipe dairy-free by swapping out the mayonnaise for a vegan mayo or a mixture of Greek yogurt and a little olive oil. For a lighter option, try using unsweetened almond or cashew yogurt!
Can I Add Other Vegetables or Ingredients?
Yes, feel free to customize your coleslaw! You could add diced jalapeños for some heat, sliced radishes for crunch, or even some black beans for added protein. Just make sure to adjust the dressing amounts if you’re adding a lot of extra ingredients!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover coleslaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The coleslaw might get a bit soggier as it sits, so give it a quick toss before serving again to refresh the flavors!
