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Fresh Mexican Cabbage Slaw

A bright and crunchy slaw that brings a zesty punch to any taco night.

By Recipes By Nani· 🌍 Mexican· July 18, 2026
Fresh Mexican Cabbage Slaw
recipesbynani.com
Prep
15 minutes
Cook
0 minutes
Total
15 minutes
Serves
4

This Mexican slaw is a total favorite in my kitchen because it is so fresh and simple to pull together. The combination of crisp cabbage and a creamy cilantro lime dressing makes it the perfect side for fish tacos or grilled chicken. Everyone always asks me for the recipe when I bring it to a barbecue.

My top tip for this salad is to shred your cabbage as thinly as you can manage. If you have a mandoline slicer, use it to get those beautiful ribbons that soak up all the tangy dressing. If you like a little extra heat, feel free to toss in a minced jalapeno with the seeds removed.

🧺 Ingredients

  • 1/2 small head of green cabbage, finely shredded
  • 1/4 cup sour cream or mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

👩‍🍳Instructions

  1. 1

    Place your finely shredded cabbage into a large mixing bowl.

  2. 2

    In a separate small bowl, whisk together the sour cream, lime juice, chopped cilantro, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.

  3. 3

    Pour the dressing over the cabbage and toss everything well until every piece is coated.

  4. 4

    Cover the bowl and let the slaw rest in the refrigerator for at least twenty minutes before serving to let the flavors blend.

💡 Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. If the slaw gets a little watery the next day, just give it a quick stir and add a fresh squeeze of lime juice. This pairs perfectly with grilled fish, carnitas, or as a crunchy topping for nachos.

Made this recipe? Let us know how it went.

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