Taco Coleslaw with Lime

This taco coleslaw brings a fresh and zesty twist to classic coleslaw by infusing it with smoky chipotle, vibrant lime, and a bold taco seasoning blend. It’s perfect for summer barbecues or as a tangy side that livens up any meal without much fuss.

I first made this when craving something different for taco night and it quickly became a staple requested by friends at every gathering

Ingredients

• Mayonnaise: Classic base for creamy texture choose a good quality brand with real egg yolks for richness
• Sour cream: Adds tanginess and balances the mayonnaise for a lighter dressing
• Fresh lime juice: Brings brightness and acidity that cuts through the creaminess use fresh for best flavor
• Taco seasoning: A blend of spices that primes the dressing with familiar smoky and earthy notes homemade or store-bought works fine
• Chipotle pepper in adobo sauce: Adds smoky heat and complexity minced finely so it disperses evenly
• Salt: Necessary for enhancing all flavors start with ½ teaspoon but adjust to taste
• Black pepper: Freshly ground gives a subtle bite
• Fresh coleslaw mix: A combination of shredded cabbage and carrots provides crunch and sweetness pick a fresh vibrant mix or shred your own
• Frozen southwestern style corn mix: Thawed for sweetness and texture contributes to the southwestern flair save a tablespoon for garnish
• Green onions: Chopped for mild onion flavor and freshness
• Fresh cilantro: Chopped adds herbaceous brightness that complements the chipotle and lime perfectly

Instructions

Make dressing:

In a mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise sour cream fresh lime juice taco seasoning minced chipotle pepper in adobo sauce salt and black pepper. Stir well to create a smooth evenly spiced dressing that will coat the vegetables

Prepare vegetables:

In a large mixing bowl, add the fresh coleslaw mix thawed southwestern style corn mix chopped green onions and chopped fresh cilantro. Toss gently to distribute the ingredients

Combine dressing and vegetables:

To the bowl with the coleslaw ingredients, add the dressing. Mix thoroughly to ensure every shred is coated with the flavorful creamy sauce enhancing every bite

Serve:

Transfer the dressed coleslaw to a large serving bowl. For an inviting presentation sprinkle additional chopped green onions cilantro and reserved southwestern style corn on top for texture contrast and color pop

I absolutely love the smoky warmth the chipotle pepper adds—it transforms a simple coleslaw into something memorable with minimal effort. One summer we brought this to a family picnic and it disappeared almost instantly as everyone kept going back for seconds.

Storage Tips

For best texture keep the coleslaw refrigerated in an airtight container and consume within two days. The dressing can be made a day ahead but avoid mixing until serving to preserve freshness. If leftovers are kept too long the cabbage may release water making the salad watery so give it a good toss before serving.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you do not have chipotle in adobo use a smoky smoked paprika and a pinch of cayenne as a substitute for heat and depth. Greek yogurt can replace sour cream for a tangier and lighter option. If fresh lime juice is not available use an equal amount of white vinegar though freshness will be less pronounced.

Serving Suggestions

Serve alongside tacos grilled chicken or fish to add a creamy crunchy contrast. It also works well as a topping for burgers or in wraps. For a fun twist try scooping it onto tortilla chips for a quick flavorful appetizer.

This coleslaw is a wonderfully vibrant and easy addition to many meals that keeps summer flavors fresh all year round.

FAQs about Recipes

→ What type of cabbage is best for coleslaw?

Green cabbage or a mix of green and purple cabbage offers the best crunch and freshness for coleslaw.

→ Can I use fresh corn instead of frozen southwestern corn?

Yes, fresh corn kernels can substitute frozen southwestern corn for a sweeter, crisper texture in the salad.

→ How spicy is the chipotle pepper in this dish?

The chipotle in adobo adds a mild smoky heat, balanced by creamy mayo and sour cream, making it flavorful but not overly spicy.

→ Is it better to chill the coleslaw before serving?

Chilling for at least an hour allows the flavors to meld and enhances the refreshing taste of the coleslaw.

→ Can this salad be prepared ahead of time?

Absolutely, preparing it a few hours ahead helps the dressing infuse well, but keep garnishes separate until serving to maintain freshness.