Are you searching for a side dish that’s not only incredibly fresh and delicious but also versatile enough to elevate almost any meal? Look no further! This Crunchy Slaw with Citrus & Cilantro is a game-changer. Whether you’re topping a juicy burger, adding zest to your favorite tacos, complementing a sandwich, or simply serving it as a refreshing side, this recipe is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser and a permanent addition to your culinary repertoire.
Crunchy Slaw with Citrus & Cilantro: Your New Go-To Recipe
Hello, fellow food enthusiasts! I hope your summer adventures are filled with joy and delicious eats. This year, my summer has taken an unexpected turn as I found myself “summering” in Alaska. Yes, Alaska! When you think of summer, Alaska might not be the first place that comes to mind, but let me tell you, it’s truly breathtaking. While it boasts some incredibly cold beaches, it also offers stunning glaciers and an unparalleled sense of wilderness that makes for an unforgettable experience.
My husband, Sean, and I are enjoying a season of workamping in the picturesque Copper River Valley. We’re serving as camp hosts at a local campground, which has been an absolute blast. It’s a unique opportunity to meet fascinating people from all walks of life as they journey through this magnificent region. Every day brings new stories and connections, making the experience incredibly rewarding.
However, life on the road and in a campground setting presents its own set of challenges, especially when it comes to meal preparation. With limited kitchen facilities and the need for efficiency, I’ve learned to heavily rely on my trusty slow cooker or, more often, on recipes like this one. What makes a recipe truly invaluable in such circumstances? It needs to be versatile, quick to prepare, and ideally, something that can be made in advance. This Crunchy Slaw with Citrus & Cilantro ticks all those boxes and more!
This isn’t just any slaw; it’s a culinary chameleon. Imagine piling this vibrant, zesty creation high on a succulent pulled pork sandwich, alongside crispy fish tacos, or nestled under a grilled chicken breast. Its bright flavors and satisfying crunch cut through richness and add a delightful texture contrast to any dish. And let’s be honest, there are those moments when you just want to grab a fork and eat it straight from the serving bowl, perhaps standing barefoot in front of an open fridge like a modern-day neanderthal. (We’ve all been there, right?). However you choose to enjoy it, I promise you, this slaw is an absolute keeper!
The Magic Behind the Mix: Ingredients and Substitutions
One of the fantastic aspects of this recipe is its adaptability. While I originally used lemon juice, feel free to experiment with orange or lime juice if that’s what you have on hand, or if you simply prefer a different citrus note. Each will impart a unique, yet equally delicious, tang to the slaw. The fresh zest from your chosen citrus fruit is also crucial here, adding an aromatic depth that elevates the entire dish beyond mere tartness.
Then there’s the cilantro. I’m firmly on #TeamCilantro, loving its distinct, fresh, almost peppery flavor. However, I know it’s not for everyone – some people find it tastes like soap! If you fall into the anti-cilantro camp, don’t despair! This slaw is still for you. Fresh basil, mint, or parsley can be easily substituted for the cilantro, each offering a lovely herbaceous twist. Basil will give it a sweeter, peppery note, mint a cool refreshing quality, and parsley a more earthy, clean flavor. Don’t be afraid to customize it to your palate!
A non-negotiable ingredient, though, is the red cabbage. While green cabbage is a staple in many slaws, I strongly advocate for using red cabbage in this recipe. Its vibrant color instantly makes the dish more appealing, but more importantly, it holds its texture wonderfully. Red cabbage is firmer and crisper, resisting sogginess much better than green cabbage, especially when dressed and left to sit. This ensures that satisfying crunch remains, even after a few days in the fridge. Beyond its textural superiority, red cabbage also boasts higher levels of beneficial antioxidants, giving you an extra health boost. So, while I might be on #TeamCilantro, I cannot say the same for #TeamGreenCabbage when it comes to this particular slaw!
Crafting Your Perfect Slaw: Tips for Success
Achieving the perfect crunchy slaw isn’t just about the right ingredients; it’s also about technique. For the best texture, aim for a fine shred on your red cabbage. A mandoline slicer works wonders for uniform, thin shreds, but a sharp chef’s knife or the shredding attachment on a food processor can also do the trick. The finer the shred, the better the dressing will cling, and the more delicate the crunch will be.
The resting time is another critical step that’s often overlooked. Allowing the slaw to refrigerate for at least an hour (or even better, two to three hours) gives the flavors a chance to meld and develop, while the cabbage slightly softens without losing its essential crispness. This brief marination period transforms the individual ingredients into a cohesive, flavorful whole. Don’t skip it!
When it comes to storage, this slaw is fantastic for meal prep. Keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and it will remain wonderfully crunchy and fresh for up to five days. This makes it an ideal make-ahead component for busy weeknights or for preparing a delicious side for upcoming gatherings.
Feeling adventurous? Don’t hesitate to add your own flair. A touch of heat from a pinch of red pepper flakes or a finely diced jalapeño can add an exciting kick. For an Asian-inspired twist, consider adding a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds or a handful of chopped peanuts or cashews for extra crunch. Finely grated carrots or thinly sliced bell peppers can also be added for additional color, nutrients, and subtle sweetness. The possibilities are endless when it comes to customizing this incredibly versatile base recipe.
6
servings
Crunchy Slaw With Citrus & Cilantro
Jamie Sherman
10
mins
10
mins
Pin
Rate
Ingredients
-
1
red cabbage,
about 4-5 pounds, washed, cored & shredded -
1
bunch
fresh cilantro,
chopped (about 1 1/2 cups) -
¼
cup
fresh lemon juice -
¼
cup
brown sugar - zest of 1 lemon
-
1
teaspoon
coarse salt
Instructions
-
Add the shredded cabbage in a large bowl, toss with the chopped cilantro and lemon zest.
-
Sprinkle the brown sugar over the top, then pour over that the lemon juice, and finally the salt. Toss thoroughly to coat all the cabbage evenly. Let it sit for 5 minutes.
-
Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld. Toss again when ready to serve. This slaw keeps well for up to 5 days if stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Notes
- You can also use a bag of pre-shredded coleslaw mix, though fresh red cabbage is highly recommended for optimal crunch and color.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or finely diced jalapeño.
- Feel free to substitute lemon juice with lime or orange juice for a different citrus profile.
Nutrition
Calories:
81
kcal
Carbohydrates:
20
g
Protein:
2
g
Fat:
0.3
g
Saturated Fat:
0.03
g
Polyunsaturated Fat:
0.1
g
Monounsaturated Fat:
0.02
g
Sodium:
429
mg
Potassium:
369
mg
Fiber:
3
g
Sugar:
15
g
Vitamin A:
1651
IU
Vitamin C:
84
mg
Calcium:
72
mg
Iron:
1
mg
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
Explore More Flavorful Sides & Toppings!
If you loved this refreshing slaw, you’re in for a treat! Here are a couple of related recipes that bring similar vibrant flavors and satisfying textures to your table. They’re perfect for expanding your repertoire of versatile and delicious dishes:
Honey Lime Teriyaki Chicken W/ Hot Sweet & Sour Cilantro Carrots – Dive into these wraps for a burst of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors, complemented by a zesty cilantro carrot slaw that’s reminiscent of today’s recipe’s freshness.
Buffalo Chicken Patties With Blue Cheese Slaw – If you enjoy a bit of heat, these buffalo chicken patties paired with a creamy blue cheese slaw offer a fantastic combination of spicy and cool, much like the balanced flavors in our citrus slaw.
Tried this recipe? Share your thoughts below!
We’d love to hear how you enjoyed this crunchy slaw and any creative ways you served it. Your feedback helps our community of food lovers!
Originally published on August 2, 2014. Updated and expanded on April 27, 2024.