Call this purple coleslaw or red cabbage slaw, either way it makes a great spicy side dish or side salad for a BBQ. If you're tired of the same old coleslaw recipes drowning in mayonnaise, this vibrant and zesty alternative is sure to awaken your taste buds.
If you add a dash of cumin to this purple cabbage slaw you have a tangy Mexican slaw! Mexican slaw is a zesty side dish featuring shredded cabbage, carrots with a tangy dressing of lime juice, olive oil and spices like cumin and chili powder, giving it a flavorful kick. Perfect for fish tacos, pork sandwiches and burgers or as a refreshing side dish.
Bursting with colors and flavors, this spicy purple coleslaw is a refreshing twist on the classic side dish. Featuring crunchy cabbage, carrots and a kick of spice, this recipe is perfect for those seeking a lighter and more adventurous option. Whether served alongside grilled meats, tacos or sandwiches, this coleslaw is guaranteed to elevate any meal with its bold and tangy profile.
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Is Coleslaw keto friendly?
Coleslaw can be made keto-friendly depending on the ingredients used in the recipe. Traditional coleslaw recipes often include ingredients like cabbage, carrots, mayonnaise and sugar
Ingredients
Bright colorful ingredients make this delicious coleslaw.
- Red Cabbage - select a firm cabbage with crisp leaves. We finely slice this with a knife but you could use a mandoline. I'm always nervous of using this as I am attached to the skin on my hands, but if you are more skilled, mandoline away!
- Carrot - carrots can be added to a low carb recipe if small in quantity
- Red onion - this could be replaced with green onions.
- Cilantro - if you are not a fan of cilantro, use fresh parsley. Flat leaf parsley is a good choice.
- Garlic - add an additional clove or two if you wish.
- Jalapeno - adds a touch of heat. Decrease or increase the peppers to your own heat taste.
- Lime juice - adds a slightly tart flavor. Lemon juice could be substituted.
- Olive oil - use a good quality oil.
How to make spicy purple coleslaw
Mix the dressing.
Finely chop vegetables and place in a bowl.
Add the dressing and fresh herbs. Toss well.
Serve and enjoy.
Storage
After preparing the coleslaw, refrigerate it promptly. Place it in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent it from absorbing other odors in the fridge. Consume the coleslaw within 3-4 days for the best quality. While it may still be safe to eat beyond that time frame the texture and flavor may deteriorate.
Store the coleslaw in the refrigerator at all times when not serving. Before serving leftovers, give the coleslaw a good stir to redistribute the dressing and ensure all the flavors are well mixed.
What to serve with spicy purple coleslaw
Purple coleslaw can complement a variety of dishes with its vibrant color and tangy flavor. Here are some ideas for what to serve it with:
- Grilled Chicken or Steak: Grilled chicken breast or steak seasoned with herbs and spices is a great low-carb option.
- Tacos - Red cabbage slaw for tacos, especially fish makes a great meal.
- Grilled Fish: Grilled fish, such as salmon, trout or tilapia, is another excellent low-carb choice. The light and flaky texture of the fish pairs well with the crunchy coleslaw and adds a healthy dose of omega-3 fatty acids.
- Cauliflower Rice: Instead of traditional rice, serve your purple coleslaw with cauliflower rice. It's a low-carb alternative that's easy to make and pairs well with the tangy flavors of the coleslaw.
- Veggie Stir-Fry: A colorful vegetable stir-fry made with low-carb veggies like bell peppers, broccoli and mushrooms is a delicious and healthy option. Serve it alongside the purple coleslaw for a nutritious and satisfying meal.
- Grilled Vegetables: Grilled vegetables such as zucchini, eggplant, bell peppers and asparagus are low in carbs and packed with flavor. They make a tasty side dish to accompany the coleslaw and can be seasoned with herbs, garlic, and olive oil.
- Turkey Lettuce Wraps: Make turkey lettuce wraps by filling large lettuce leaves with seasoned ground turkey, diced tomatoes, avocado slices, and a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream. Serve them with a side of purple coleslaw for a low-carb and satisfying meal.
More keto coleslaw recipes
Coleslaw is a great raw, crunch and low carb side dish. I enjoy a bowl of it with grated cheese as a light lunch. Try these other coleslaw recipes:
Purple Coleslaw
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Ingredients
- ½ head red cabbage
- ¼ red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 medium carrot, grated
- 2 jalapeno, deseeded and chopped
- ½ cup cilantro, chopped
Dressing
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
Make the dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk the olive oil, lime juice, minced garlic, salt and pepper.
Make the slaw
- Thinly slice the red cabbage.
- In a large bowl, combine the sliced purple cabbage, grated carrots, chopped red onion, chopped cilantro, and chopped jalapeño pepper. Toss to combine.
- Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss until everything is evenly coated.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the coleslaw to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Serve chilled as a side dish or topping for tacos, sandwiches, or grilled meats.
- Enjoy your spicy purple coleslaw!
Notes
Nutrition
The information shown is an estimate provided by an online nutrition calculator.
