Mexican Coleslaw with Cilantro and Spicy Jalapeño Recipe

If you’re craving a vibrant, crunchy salad bursting with fresh flavors and a bit of a spicy kick, this Mexican Coleslaw with Cilantro and Spicy Jalapeño Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a colorful medley of shredded green and purple cabbage, crisp carrots, and zesty red onion all wrapped up in a creamy, tangy dressing flavored with apple cider vinegar, honey, and a perfect balance of warming spices. The cilantro and jalapeño add that unmistakable Mexican flair that makes this coleslaw a standout side, perfect for brightening up any meal or serving as a refreshing standalone snack. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or just want to jazz up your weekday dinner, this recipe brings joy to every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, fresh ingredients is really the key to nailing the vibrant textures and bold flavors in this Mexican Coleslaw with Cilantro and Spicy Jalapeño Recipe. Each item plays an important role, from the crunchy cabbage to the creamy dressing components to the juicy bursts of spice and herbal brightness.

• 4 cups shredded green cabbage: Provides the essential crunch and mild flavor base for the coleslaw.
• 1 cup shredded purple cabbage: Adds vibrant color and a slightly sweeter bite that brightens the dish.
• 1/2 cup shredded carrots: Gives the slaw a natural sweetness and cheerful orange contrast.
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro: Brings fresh, citrusy notes that make the salad unmistakably Mexican.
• 1/4 cup diced red onion: Offers a sharp bite and crunch for extra texture complexity.
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar: A tangy punch that balances the creamy elements perfectly.
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise: The creamy base that ties all the flavors together smoothly.
• 2 tablespoons sour cream: Adds a luscious creaminess with a slight tang to brighten the sauce.
• 1 tablespoon honey: Sweetens the dressing just enough to balance the spice and acid.
• 1 teaspoon chili powder: Infuses warm, smoky notes that amplify the Mexican-inspired taste.
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin: Adds earthy depth that complements the chili powder beautifully.
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder: Gives a subtle savory undertone without overpowering the freshness.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural flavors while keeping everything balanced.
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Provides a mild heat and seasoning depth.
• 1 jalapeño, finely chopped (optional): For those who love a spicy kick and an extra layer of complexity.

How to Make Mexican Coleslaw with Cilantro and Spicy Jalapeño Recipe

Step 1: Combine the Base Vegetables

Start with a large mixing bowl and toss together the shredded green cabbage, purple cabbage, and carrots. These three bring both structure and a stunning color pop that makes your coleslaw feel fresh and lively right from the start.

Step 2: Add Fresh Flavors

Next, sprinkle in the chopped cilantro and diced red onion. Cilantro introduces a bright, almost citrusy aroma that defines the dish’s Mexican roots, while the red onion adds a sharp bite that keeps every forkful interesting.

Step 3: Whisk the Creamy Dressing

In a separate small bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, mayonnaise, and sour cream until you get a smooth, harmonious mixture. This creamy tangy dressing will coat the vegetables beautifully, blending all the flavors in every crunchy bite.

Step 4: Season the Sauce

Stir in the honey, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. These spices pull everything together with a warm, nuanced flavor profile that balances sweet, savory, and spicy elements perfectly.

Step 5: Add the Jalapeño for Heat

If you love heat, now is the time to add the finely chopped jalapeño. Its fresh spicy punch elevates the dressing, making your coleslaw lively and exciting, but feel free to skip it if you prefer a milder salad.

Step 6: Combine Dressing with Vegetables

Pour the creamy dressing over your cabbage and carrot mixture. The colors and textures will start to harmonize beautifully as you prepare for the next step.

Step 7: Toss Until Evenly Coated

Toss everything together gently but thoroughly so every shred of cabbage and carrot is coated with the flavorful dressing. This step ensures every bite is packed with taste and texture.

Step 8: Taste and Adjust

Give your coleslaw a taste, and tweak the seasoning however you like — a pinch more salt, a dash more honey, or extra pepper. This personal touch makes the recipe truly yours.

Step 9: Chill to Marry Flavors

Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling allows the flavors to meld together, and the cabbage to soften slightly while retaining its crunch—a magical step for maximum deliciousness.

Step 10: Final Toss Before Serving

Just before serving, give your coleslaw one last toss to redistribute the dressing evenly and wake up the fresh textures and vibrant flavors once again.

How to Serve Mexican Coleslaw with Cilantro and Spicy Jalapeño Recipe

Garnishes

Consider topping your coleslaw with extra chopped cilantro leaves, a few thin jalapeño slices for heat, or a sprinkle of crushed tortilla chips for crunch. These little touches can transform the presentation and add delightful texture contrasts.

Side Dishes

This Mexican Coleslaw with Cilantro and Spicy Jalapeño Recipe pairs perfectly with grilled meats like chicken or steak, fish tacos, or even your favorite spicy beans. It’s a fresh counterpoint that brings brightness and a cooling contrast to richer, heartier mains.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve it in clear glass bowls to showcase its vivid colors or pile it generously atop tacos, burgers, or sandwiches for an instant upgrade. You can also use it as a crunchy taco salad base, topped with avocado or a squeeze of lime for extra zing.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your coleslaw stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and crunchy for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to evolve after sitting, so leftovers often taste even better the next day.

Freezing

Because coleslaw is fresh and crunchy, freezing is not recommended. The texture will become soggy and lose its appeal, so it’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated for short-term storage.

Reheating

This coleslaw is best served cold or at room temperature, so no reheating is needed. Just take it out of the fridge about 10 minutes before serving to let the flavors open up nicely.

FAQs

Can I make this Mexican Coleslaw with Cilantro and Spicy Jalapeño Recipe vegan?

Absolutely! Swap out the mayonnaise and sour cream for vegan or plant-based alternatives, such as vegan mayo and cashew cream, to keep the creamy texture without any animal products.

Is it okay to omit the jalapeño if I don’t like spicy food?

Yes, definitely! The jalapeño is optional and mainly adds heat. You can leave it out, and the coleslaw will still be flavorful, fresh, and delicious.

Can I use pre-shredded cabbage and carrots?

Yes, using pre-shredded veggies saves time and works great here. Just make sure they’re fresh and crisp for the best texture and taste.

How long should I let the coleslaw chill before serving?

At least 30 minutes is ideal to allow the flavors to marry and soften the vegetables slightly, but you can refrigerate it for up to 2 hours for an even better meld of tastes.

Can this coleslaw be made gluten-free?

Yes! All the ingredients in this Mexican Coleslaw with Cilantro and Spicy Jalapeño Recipe are naturally gluten-free, just be mindful to use gluten-free mayonnaise to keep it safe.

Final Thoughts

There’s something so satisfying about the crunch, zest, and balanced spice in this Mexican Coleslaw with Cilantro and Spicy Jalapeño Recipe that makes it a real crowd favorite. Whether you’re serving it with tacos, barbecue, or just enjoying it as is, it’s guaranteed to become a staple in your kitchen. Give it a try—you’ll love the way those fresh flavors come alive and brighten up your meal every time.

Print