Taco Slaw Recipe
Introduction
Taco slaw is a fresh and zesty twist on traditional coleslaw, perfect for adding crunch and flavor to your tacos. This vibrant side combines crisp cabbage with a creamy, tangy dressing that brightens up any taco night.

Ingredients
- 6 cups green cabbage, finely shredded (about 1/4 head, tightly packed)
- 1 cup green onion, finely sliced on the diagonal
- 1/2 cup finely chopped coriander/cilantro leaves
- 1/2 cup sour cream (substitute 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 if substituting with table salt)
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large bowl, mix together the sour cream, mayonnaise (or olive oil), lime zest, lime juice, and salt to make the dressing.
- Step 2: Add the shredded cabbage, sliced green onions, and chopped coriander to the dressing. Toss well with your hands or tongs until evenly coated.
- Step 3: Set the slaw aside for at least one hour to allow the cabbage to wilt and absorb the flavors. Toss again before serving.
Tips & Variations
- For extra crunch and color, add shredded carrots or thinly sliced red bell pepper.
- Use plain yogurt instead of sour cream for a lighter, tangier dressing.
- For a spicy kick, sprinkle in some chili flakes or finely chopped jalapeños.
Storage
Store the taco slaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Stir well before serving, and it pairs best fresh but can be enjoyed chilled. Avoid storing longer as the cabbage may become too soft.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I prepare taco slaw in advance?
Yes, you can prepare it up to a few hours ahead to let the flavors meld. However, for the best texture, serve it within a day.
Is there a vegan version of this slaw?
Absolutely! Substitute the sour cream and mayonnaise with vegan alternatives or use extra olive oil and a plant-based yogurt to keep it creamy.
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Taco Slaw Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This vibrant Taco Slaw is a fresh and tangy side dish featuring finely shredded green cabbage, green onions, and cilantro dressed in a creamy lime-infused dressing. Perfectly balanced with sour cream, mayonnaise, and zesty lime, it’s an ideal accompaniment to tacos, adding crunch and flavor with a subtle hint of citrus and herbaceous freshness.
Ingredients
Slaw
- 6 cups green cabbage, finely shredded (about 1/4 head, tightly packed)
- 1 cup green onion, finely sliced on the diagonal
- 1/2 cup coriander/cilantro leaves, finely chopped
Dressing
- 1/2 cup sour cream (substitute with plain yogurt if preferred)
- 2 tbsp mayonnaise (or 1 tbsp olive oil as a lighter alternative)
- 2 tsp lime zest
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt (reduce to 1/4 tsp if using table salt)
Instructions
- Prepare the Dressing: In a large mixing bowl, combine sour cream, mayonnaise (or olive oil), lime zest, lime juice, and salt. Whisk thoroughly until the dressing is smooth and homogenous.
- Add Slaw Ingredients: Add the shredded cabbage, sliced green onions, and chopped cilantro to the bowl with the dressing. Using your hands or tongs, toss everything together thoroughly, ensuring the cabbage mixture is evenly coated with the dressing.
- Let it Rest: Set the slaw aside at room temperature for at least 1 hour. This resting time allows the cabbage to become wilted and floppy, softening the texture and melding the flavors beautifully. Toss the slaw again before serving.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute mayonnaise with olive oil and sour cream with plain yogurt.
- Adjust salt levels based on the salt type used; table salt is finer and more potent than kosher salt.
- Allowing the slaw to rest is crucial to soften the cabbage and enhance the flavor profile.
- This slaw pairs excellently with any taco filling, adding a refreshing crunch and creamy zest.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mexican
Keywords: Taco Slaw, Cabbage Slaw, Mexican side dish, creamy slaw, lime slaw, cilantro cabbage salad, sour cream dressing

