Taco Slaw Recipe

Introduction

Taco slaw is a fresh and tangy side that brings a crisp crunch to your tacos. This easy-to-make slaw combines cabbage, green onions, and a creamy lime dressing for a perfect balance of flavors. It’s a vibrant way to add texture and zest to your meal.

Ingredients

• 6 tightly packed cups green cabbage, finely shredded (about 1/4 head)
• 1 cup green onion, finely sliced on the diagonal
• 1/2 cup finely chopped coriander (cilantro) leaves
• 1/2 cup sour cream (substitute with plain yogurt if preferred)
• 2 tbsp mayonnaise (or 1 tbsp olive oil for a lighter version)
• 2 tsp lime zest
• 1 tbsp lime juice
• 1/2 tsp cooking salt or kosher salt (use half for table salt)

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large bowl, mix together the sour cream, mayonnaise (or olive oil), lime zest, lime juice, and salt until well combined to create the dressing.
2. Step 2: Add the shredded cabbage, sliced green onions, and chopped coriander to the dressing.
3. Step 3: Toss everything well with your hands or tongs until the cabbage is evenly coated with the dressing.
4. Step 4: Set the slaw aside for at least 1 hour to allow the cabbage to wilt and become tender. Toss again before serving.
5. Step 5: Use the slaw as a topping for tacos or as a flavorful side dish.

Tips & Variations

• For a spicy kick, add a pinch of chili powder or finely diced jalapeño to the dressing.
• Use plain yogurt instead of sour cream for a tangier and lighter option.
• Try adding shredded carrots or radishes for extra color and crunch.
• If you prefer a vinaigrette, use olive oil instead of mayonnaise and add a little honey to balance the lime juice.

Storage

Store the taco slaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. It may release some liquid over time; simply toss before serving again. Because it’s dressed, it’s best enjoyed fresh or within a couple of days for optimal texture.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make taco slaw ahead of time?

Yes, making it at least an hour before serving allows the cabbage to soften and the flavors to meld. However, avoid preparing it more than a day ahead to keep the texture fresh.

What can I use if I don’t have lime zest?

If lime zest is not available, you can substitute with lemon zest or simply increase the lime juice slightly for added acidity and flavor.

Taco Slaw Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 129 reviews

This refreshing Taco Slaw is a vibrant, tangy side dish featuring finely shredded green cabbage blended with green onions, cilantro, and a creamy lime-infused dressing. Perfect for adding a crisp, flavorful crunch to tacos or as a standalone salad, it’s easy to prepare and rests for a bit to allow the cabbage to soften slightly and absorb all the zesty flavors.

• Author: Bella
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Yield: About 6 servings 1x
• Category: Salad
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: Mexican
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Vegetables

• 6 tightly packed cups green cabbage, finely shredded (about 1/4 head)
• 1 cup green onion, finely sliced on the diagonal
• 1/2 cup finely chopped coriander/cilantro leaves

Dressing

• 1/2 cup sour cream (substitute with plain yogurt if preferred)
• 2 tbsp mayonnaise (or 1 tbsp olive oil for a lighter version)
• 2 tsp lime zest
• 1 tbsp lime juice
• 1/2 tsp cooking salt / kosher salt (halve amount if using table salt)

Instructions

1. Prepare the dressing: In a large bowl, combine the sour cream, mayonnaise (or olive oil), lime zest, lime juice, and salt. Mix thoroughly until the ingredients form a smooth, creamy dressing.
2. Add the slaw ingredients: Add the shredded cabbage, green onions, and finely chopped cilantro into the bowl with the dressing. Using your hands or tongs, toss everything together well to ensure all the cabbage is coated evenly with the dressing.
3. Let it rest: Set the slaw aside for at least 1 hour. This allows the cabbage to soften and become wilted, melding all the flavors together. After resting, toss the slaw again lightly before serving it as a fresh topping for tacos or as a side salad.

Notes

• For a lighter dressing, substitute mayonnaise with olive oil.
• Use plain yogurt instead of sour cream for a tangier, lower-fat option.
• Adjust salt quantity according to taste, especially if table salt is used instead of kosher salt.
• Letting the slaw rest is essential to ensure the cabbage softens and the flavors marry.
• Can be made a few hours ahead and refrigerated; toss again before serving.

Keywords: Taco slaw, cabbage slaw, taco topping, Mexican salad, creamy slaw, lime slaw, cilantro slaw