Dinner

5 Minute Cilantro Lime Slaw Recipe

Name: 5 Minute Cilantro Lime Slaw Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 14 ounces thinly sliced cabbage; 1/2 small red onion, petite diced; 1/2 cup freshly chopped cilantro; Kosher salt, to taste; Fresh cracked pepper, to taste; 1/3 cup olive oil; 1/4 cup lime juice; 2 teaspoons honey; 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin; 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

Byanna orden July 21, 2025July 21, 2025

Jump to Recipe

If you’re searching for a lightning-fast, flavor-packed side that instantly brightens up any meal, look no further than this 5 Minute Cilantro Lime Slaw. With crunchy cabbage, tangy lime, zesty herbs, and just a hint of sweetness, this colorful slaw is not just quick and easy—it’s absolutely irresistible. Whether you’re piling it onto tacos, serving it at a picnic, or adding a pop of freshness alongside grilled meats, it brings instant sunshine to your table, no fuss required.

5 Minute Cilantro Lime Slaw Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

It’s incredible how a handful of fresh, simple ingredients can create something so vibrant. Each item in this 5 Minute Cilantro Lime Slaw recipe has its own role, coming together for a mix of crunch, zest, and brightness you can taste in every bite.

Cabbage (14 ounces, thinly sliced): The crisp backbone of this slaw; use a mix of green and purple cabbage for extra color.
Red onion (1/2 small, petite diced): Adds sharpness and a punchy bite—soak in cold water for a few minutes if you want to mellow the flavor.
Cilantro (1/2 cup, freshly chopped): Brings that signature herbal freshness that ties the whole dish together.
Olive oil (1/3 cup): A silky base for the dressing, giving just the right richness.
Lime juice (1/4 cup): Provides a burst of zippy acidity that wakes up all the other flavors.
Honey (2 teaspoons): Balances the tang with just a whisper of sweetness—maple syrup works in a pinch!
Ground cumin (1/2 teaspoon): Subtle earthiness that makes every forkful interesting.
Garlic powder (1/4 teaspoon): Adds gentle savory depth without overpowering the fresh ingredients.
Kosher salt: A couple pinches bring out the flavors and keep things vibrant.
Fresh cracked pepper: For a little gentle heat and aromatic finish.

How to Make 5 Minute Cilantro Lime Slaw

Step 1: Toss Together the Veggies

Start by grabbing a roomy mixing bowl—this is your slaw’s main stage. Add the thinly sliced cabbage, diced red onion, and freshly chopped cilantro. Don’t be shy with that cilantro; it delivers so much zing and color! Give everything a gentle toss with clean hands or tongs to combine and fluff the mixture.

Step 2: Whisk Up the Dressing

Next, take out a measuring cup or small bowl. Pour in your olive oil, then add the lime juice, honey, ground cumin, garlic powder, and a couple generous pinches of kosher salt and some cracked pepper. Whisk briskly until the mixture is smooth and well-blended. It should look golden, lush, and so aromatic you’ll want to dip a finger in for a taste!

Step 3: Dress the Slaw

Take that fragrant dressing and pour it right over your veggie mixture. Make sure to catch every last drop—it’s liquid gold. Gently but thoroughly toss the slaw until every strand of cabbage is glistening and coated. The slaw will soften ever so slightly in just a minute or two, staying crunchy but absorbing loads of fresh flavor.

Step 4: Taste and Enjoy

This is where the magic happens. Taste a forkful and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or a little extra lime juice if you’re all about that citrusy punch. Serve immediately for maximum crunch, and watch this 5 Minute Cilantro Lime Slaw vanish in record time!

How to Serve 5 Minute Cilantro Lime Slaw

Garnishes

Garnishing your slaw isn’t just about looks—it’s about adding that last pop of flavor and color. Try a final flourish of extra chopped cilantro, a quick sprinkle of toasted pepitas or sunflower seeds for crunch, or even a little crumbled feta or cotija for creamy contrast. A few lime wedges on the side let everyone amp up the zing to their own taste.

Side Dishes

This 5 Minute Cilantro Lime Slaw fits in everywhere! It’s fantastic next to tacos, grilled chicken, or fish. Try tucking it into a barbecue spread with pulled pork sandwiches, or serve alongside spicy black beans and rice. It’s light and refreshing, so it balances rich or spicy main courses perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Don’t stop at the usual salad bowls—pile your slaw high in mason jars for picnic-ready sides, use it as a vibrant topping for burgers or burritos, or spoon it over nachos for a fresh twist. For parties, serve the 5 Minute Cilantro Lime Slaw in crisp lettuce cups or mini tortilla boats for snazzy individual servings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any 5 Minute Cilantro Lime Slaw left (which is honestly rare!), store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay bright and crisp for up to 2 days, but the cabbage softens slightly over time while absorbing even more flavor from the dressing.

Freezing

Slaw and freezers don’t usually get along—freezing can turn those vibrant veggies limp and watery. If you absolutely must, freeze only the shredded cabbage and onions, adding fresh cilantro and dressing just before serving for best results.

Reheating

No reheating needed here! 5 Minute Cilantro Lime Slaw is meant to be cool and crisp, giving you a refreshing bite straight from the fridge. If it’s been chilling for a while, just toss it again to redistribute the dressing before serving.

FAQs

Can I use pre-shredded coleslaw mix for this recipe?

Absolutely! Using a store-bought coleslaw mix is a fabulous shortcut that makes the 5 Minute Cilantro Lime Slaw even speedier. You’ll still get all the crunch and flavor without any slicing—just make sure it’s fresh and crisp.

Is there a way to make this slaw vegan?

Yes, simply swap the honey for maple syrup or agave nectar to keep everything 100% plant-based without losing that lovely, subtle sweetness.

How spicy is this slaw?

This slaw is mild as written, but if you love a little heat, toss in some sliced jalapeño or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes. It’s super easy to customize and as bold or mellow as you like.

Can I make 5 Minute Cilantro Lime Slaw ahead of time?

You sure can! Mix it an hour or so before serving, and it will still hold plenty of crunch. For best results, wait to add the dressing until just before serving, then toss and garnish.

What can I use instead of cilantro if I’m not a fan?

If cilantro isn’t your thing, try fresh parsley or thinly sliced green onions for a different herbaceous twist—you’ll still get gorgeous color and loads of freshness.

Final Thoughts

If you haven’t whipped up this 5 Minute Cilantro Lime Slaw yet, what are you waiting for? It’s the ultimate fast, zesty side that makes any meal more exciting and memorable. Give it a try and watch it become a fresh favorite at your table!