10-Minute Cilantro Lime Coleslaw Recipe (Applebees CopyCat Recipe)

A creamy sweet cilantro coleslaw recipe with freshly chopped cilantro and a squirt of lime gives this recipe an amazing fresh flavor, all ready in just 10 minutes. Perk up any coleslaw with this Applebees Coleslaw CopyCat Recipe!

I don’t normally get excited about coleslaw. I went to Applebee’s Restaurant and my meal came with a side of coleslaw. It was the best coleslaw I have ever had. For real! The magical ingredient was cilantro. It tasted super fresh. Why haven’t we been putting cilantro in our coleslaw all along?

Coleslaw is dutch for cabbage salad. Slaw with Cilantro is a summer cookout staple all across the United States and a recipe every home cook should be able to make.

And when I say it’s an “easy recipe”, I mean it. All you have to do it is chop and mix, then pop it in the fridge for a bit (and if you are like me and buy bagged coleslaw, you don’t even have to do the chopping). So, definitely easy!

I am growing cilantro and now I wish I would have dedicated a whole garden bed to it. This coleslaw is that good! I will never make or eat coleslaw without cilantro again! You can’t go back.

Top Tips 

• Customize the Texture: For extra crunch, add thinly sliced red onions, shredded jicama, or toasted pumpkin seeds. If you prefer a finer texture, chop the cabbage and cilantro more finely.
• Pair It with the Right Dishes: This coleslaw shines as a side dish with tacos, grilled chicken sandwiches, pulled pork, fish, or BBQ dishes like my smoked spatchcock chicken.
• Let It Rest for Maximum Flavor: While 30 minutes of chilling is recommended, letting it sit for a few hours or overnight. The lime and vinegar will slightly soften the cabbage while deepening the taste.

Ingredient Highlights: Fresh Cilantro

The main thing about this recipe is the fresh cilantro. That is a must! Just add it to your coleslaw no matter how it is made.

Cilantro is the star of this coleslaw, adding a bright, fresh flavor that makes it irresistible. If you love cilantro as much as I do, you’ll want to use it in everything! Beyond coleslaw, cilantro can enhance many recipes, such as Lime Cilantro Aioli, a zesty and herby spread perfect for sliders, or a delicious drink like Cilantro Grapefruit Gin & Tonic. 

How to Make Your Own Coleslaw Blend

I usually buy bagged coleslaw mixed. They have dressing, but including them is up to you. You can make your mom’s famous coleslaw or try this KFC CopyCat Coleslaw Recipe

If you prefer a homemade coleslaw mix over a store-bought bag, it’s incredibly easy to make. Start with half a head of green cabbage, adding a quarter head of red or purple cabbage for extra color if desired, and one large carrot. Using a sharp knife or food processor, finely shred the cabbage into thin strips. Then, grate the carrot using a box grater or food processor. Once prepared, toss everything together in a large bowl and you’re ready to go. 

How to Make Coleslaw Lime Recipe with Fresh Cilantro

• Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine coleslaw mix (or homemade blend), cilantro, mayonnaise, sugar, white vinegar, and lime juice.
• Adjust to Taste: Add more mayonnaise for creaminess or extra lime juice for tanginess.
• Chill: Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
• Toss & Serve: Give it a quick stir before serving so the vinaigrette mixes well. 

Does Cilantro Lime Coleslaw Store Well?

To keep your cilantro lime coleslaw fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best enjoyed within 24–48 hours, as the cabbage will start to release moisture and soften over time. If the coleslaw becomes too watery, simply drain excess liquid and stir in a little more mayonnaise before serving. Avoid freezing coleslaw, as the texture will become mushy once thawed.