spicy coleslaw recipe
The Best spicy coleslaw recipe
I also appreciate how easy it is to make ahead—just mix it the night before and it stays fresh and crunchy for days. It’s a great way to use up cabbage and carrots, two veggies that are easy to find but can sometimes feel like they’re just taking up space. Plus, the health perks are pretty solid: it’s packed with fiber, vitamin C, and probiotics from the cabbage, which helps keep things moving smoothly. And the kick of chili powder and lime juice adds a little flavor punch without the sugar crash. It’s a simple swap for when you want something fresh and flavorful without all the fuss.

Spicy Sriracha Coleslaw
A refreshing, tangy, and slightly fiery coleslaw that balances crisp cabbage with bold Sriracha dressing. Perfect for sandwiches, burgers, or as a side.
🥘Ingredients
- 1 medium head green cabbage, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp Sriracha sauce
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1 small garlic clove, minced
- 1/2 tsp salt
👨🍳Directions
-
1
Slice the cabbage into thin, even shreds. Rinse briefly under cold water to remove any loose fibers, then drain. -
2
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, apple cider vinegar, sugar, Dijon mustard, and olive oil. Whisk until the cabbage is evenly coated and the sugar dissolves. -
3
Transfer the cabbage mixture to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld. -
4
While the cabbage rests, whisk together the mayonnaise, Sriracha sauce, lime juice, minced garlic, and salt in a separate bowl. -
5
Just before serving, gently fold the dressing into the chilled cabbage mixture. Taste and adjust spice or sweetness if needed.
🔧Equipment
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
- For extra crunch, sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds or chopped peanuts.
- To keep the slaw fresh, store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Use a mix of green and red cabbage for a vibrant, slightly sweet contrast.
Watch Video Of How Spicy Sriracha Coleslaw Works
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Spicy Sriracha Coleslaw
How long does it take to prepare this spicy coleslaw?
This spicy coleslaw can be ready in about 15 minutes, depending on how quickly you chop the cabbage and carrots. The dressing takes only a few minutes to mix, so the bulk of the prep time is spent on the veggie cutting.
Can I make the dressing ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dressing separately and mix it with the cabbage and carrots just before serving. Keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days—just stir before using to ensure the flavors meld properly.
What if I don’t have a sharp knife or a mandoline?
No problem! Use a sharp chef’s knife for a clean cut, or pulse the veggies in a food processor for a faster (but slightly less precise) result. For extra texture, leave some carrots whole or slice them into thick rounds.
Is this coleslaw gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free since it relies on a vinegar-based dressing and no added thickeners or sauces. If you’re avoiding gluten for other reasons, just double-check the labels on any store-bought ingredients like mayo or mustard.
Can I adjust the spice level?
Absolutely! If you prefer it milder, reduce the amount of hot sauce or skip it entirely. For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of sriracha. The cabbage and carrots also absorb flavors, so taste as you go.
