Keto Lime and Cilantro Coleslaw: A Refreshing Twist on a Classic
When it comes to the keto diet, finding the perfect side dish to complement your main can be a challenge. Look no further than this Keto Lime and Cilantro Coleslaw. Not only is it packed with tangy and fresh flavors, but it’s also low in carbs and high in fats, making it an ideal choice for anyone following a ketogenic lifestyle.
This coleslaw is a fantastic way to add a zesty twist to your meals. With its creamy dressing and the refreshing kick of lime and cilantro, it’s perfect for BBQs, picnics, or as a flavorful addition to any lunch or dinner. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make with a total prep time of just 15 minutes!
Why This Keto Coleslaw Recipe Works
The beauty of this Keto Lime and Cilantro Coleslaw lies in its simplicity and the health benefits of its key ingredients. Cabbage, the main component, is a low-carb vegetable that’s rich in vitamins C and K. When paired with the high-fat content of the mayonnaise and sour cream, it creates a perfectly balanced keto side dish.
The lime juice and zest not only provide a burst of citrus flavor but also contain vitamin C and antioxidants. Cilantro adds a fresh, herby element, while the apple cider vinegar gives a subtle tang and can aid in digestion. The addition of erythritol as a sweetener keeps the sugar content down, ensuring that this dish stays within keto guidelines.
Moreover, the fats in the mayonnaise and sour cream are mostly monounsaturated and saturated fats, which are a key part of the keto diet’s macronutrient ratio. These fats help to keep you feeling full and satisfied, while the fiber from the vegetables aids in digestion without adding too many net carbs.
The Method: Crafting the Perfect Keto Coleslaw
Creating this coleslaw is straightforward, but a few chef’s tips can elevate it from good to great. When slicing your cabbage, aim for thin, even shreds for the best texture. A mandoline slicer can be your best friend here, ensuring uniformity and saving time.
For the dressing, whisking is key. You want to achieve a smooth and creamy consistency, with no lumps. Allow the dressing to sit for a few minutes after mixing; this lets the flavors meld together, particularly the cumin and garlic powder, which become more pronounced as they hydrate and infuse the dressing.
When combining the dressing with the vegetables, use a gentle hand to toss. This prevents the cabbage from becoming too compacted, keeping the slaw light and crunchy. Letting it chill in the fridge is not just about temperature; it’s about letting the flavors develop and marry, resulting in a more cohesive taste.
Variations to Keep Your Keto Coleslaw Exciting
Spicy Keto Coleslaw
Add a kick to your coleslaw with some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of chili flakes. The heat pairs wonderfully with the coolness of the lime and cilantro, creating a balanced and exciting flavor profile.
Tropical Keto Coleslaw
Introduce some diced avocado and a handful of shredded coconut for a tropical twist. The avocado adds creaminess and healthy fats, while the coconut provides a subtle sweetness and texture contrast.
Asian-Inspired Keto Coleslaw
For an Asian flair, mix in a tablespoon of sesame oil and some toasted sesame seeds. Top with a few slices of green onion for an extra pop of flavor and color.
Substitutions for Dietary Restrictions and Preferences
For a dairy-free version, replace the sour cream with a dairy-free alternative or simply use extra mayonnaise. If you’re avoiding mayonnaise, consider using mashed avocado for creaminess.
If you don’t have apple cider vinegar, white wine vinegar or even lemon juice can provide the necessary acidity. And for those who don’t enjoy erythritol, stevia or monk fruit sweeteners are excellent sugar-free alternatives.
Finally, if cilantro isn’t to your taste, fresh parsley or even mint can offer a fresh, herby quality without the distinct cilantro flavor that some find off-putting.
Frequently Asked Questions
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Can I make this coleslaw ahead of time? | Yes, making it ahead of time allows the flavors to meld. Just be sure to give it a good stir before serving. |
| How long does this coleslaw last in the fridge? | Stored in an airtight container, it’ll last up to 3 days. |
| Is this coleslaw recipe spicy? | No, but you can add heat with jalapeños or chili flakes if desired. |
| Can I use bagged coleslaw mix? | Yes, for convenience, a pre-made coleslaw mix works well. |
| What can I serve with this coleslaw? | It pairs beautifully with grilled meats or as a topping for keto-friendly tacos or burgers. |
Keto Lime and Cilantro Coleslaw
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Grater or julienne peeler
- Zester or grater
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
Cabbage mix
- ½ head green cabbage, thinly sliced about 1 lb / 450g
- ¼ head red cabbage, thinly sliced about 1/2 lb / 225g
- 2 medium carrots, julienned about 4 oz / 113g
Dressing
- ½ cup mayonnaise 120ml
- ¼ cup sour cream 60ml
- 3 tbsp lime juice 45ml
- 1 tbsp lime zest from about 2 limes
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped 4g
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar 15ml
- 1 tsp granulated erythritol 4g
- ½ tsp ground cumin
- ¼ tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the thinly sliced green and red cabbage with the julienned carrots. Toss to mix well.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, lime zest, chopped cilantro, apple cider vinegar, erythritol, ground cumin, and garlic powder until smooth and well-combined.
- Pour the dressing over the cabbage mix and toss thoroughly to ensure all the vegetables are coated evenly with the dressing.
- Season the coleslaw with salt and pepper to taste. For the best flavor, let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
- Before serving, give the coleslaw a final stir to redistribute the dressing and flavors.
