Taco Slaw

Ingredients & Substitutions

Here I explain the best ingredients for my taco slaw recipe, what each one does, and substitution options. For measurements, see the recipe card.

• Shredded Coleslaw Mix – This is the time-saving shortcut I take whenever I need shredded cabbage and carrots together, especially for coleslaw recipes. (I also use it for my egg roll in a bowl and cabbage stir fry.) It works perfectly for taco slaw and is the main ingredient in it, but you can also shred your own red and/or green cabbage if you prefer.
• Mayonnaise – The base of the creamy cilantro lime dressing! You can whip up my homemade mayonnaise in just a few minutes using common kitchen staples, or use your favorite store-bought brand. Greek yogurt or sour cream would also work, but the flavor will be different.
• Lime juice – Using fresh squeezed lime juice will give you the best flavor, but you can also use bottled lime juice (like I sometimes do) for a time-saver.
• Spices – While my Mexican coleslaw recipe may not be entirely traditional, I used a combination of cumin, garlic powder, sea salt, and cayenne pepper to give it that Mexican flavor we all know and love.
• Green Onions – For a contrasting bite. If you prefer more crunch, red onions would also work nicely with the flavors I have going here.
• Fresh Cilantro – You know I can’t resist adding some fresh herbs! Feel free to leave them out if you’re not a fan of cilantro, but I can’t really recommend another herb that would work well.

How To Make Cabbage Slaw For Tacos

I have step-by-step photos here to help you visualize the recipe. For full instructions with amounts and temperatures, see the recipe card.

1. Mix the dressing. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayo, lime juice, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and cayenne.
2. Mix the taco slaw. Place the coleslaw mix, green onions, and cilantro into a large bowl. Pour the dressing over the slaw and toss to coat. I like to top mine with more green onions and a fresh squeeze of lime for serving.

Serving Ideas

The best part about this slaw is that you’ll find so many ways to eat it! Here are a few ways I use it:

• Tacos – Obviously, you can use this cabbage slaw for tacos! Sometimes I choose corn tortillas, other times it’s lighter options like crunchy cheese taco shells or jicama tortillas. My all-time favorite filling is copycat Chipotle barbacoa, but you can also stuff yours with classic taco meat, chicken fajitas, seasoned flaky fish, or make my steak tacos or even Crock Pot chicken tacos. For a low carb option, use this slaw for fish tacos from my first low carb cookbook.
• Taco-Inspired Recipes – Try it as a topping for other dishes that have taco flavors, like my taco skillet, taco stuffed peppers, or taco casserole. I’ve even enjoyed it over my easy taco salad and added a dollop on my taco bowl!
• Burgers – Add this cilantro lime slaw to take your burger to the next level! You can serve it on the side, or stuff it right inside the bun (or my go-to, a lettuce wrap) along with a slice of melty cheese, avocado, and fresh salsa. Sometimes I even season the burgers with taco seasoning.
• Sandwiches – This slaw pairs particularly well with pulled pork in a sandwich, but you can also add some Mexican seasonings to my chicken salad recipe to go with it.
• Serve As A Side Dish – Who says you can only use this Mexican coleslaw for tacos or toppings? It also makes an easy side with Mexican-inspired meals. Try it with my carne asada, stuffed poblano peppers, or chicken stuffed peppers.

More Toppers For Mexican Recipes

The fresh, vibrant toppings are my favorite part about this cuisine! Try my other Mexican-inspired recipes to complete your meals:

Crock Pot Queso

Easy Guacamole

Salsa Verde

Pineapple Salsa