Spicy Coleslaw
Spicy coleslaw is a zesty twist on the classic side dish, perfect for those who love a little extra kick in their meals. This recipe combines crisp vegetables with a fiery dressing, creating a deliciously bold and refreshing salad.

Although this coleslaw can be served with various dishes, it is specifically made for fish tacos. Fish tacos require a slaw, and this one does not disappoint. Made in less than five minutes and ready to serve in less than 15 minutes, it is a great companion for the incredibly easy fish taco.
Why Make this Spicy Coleslaw?
- This spicy coleslaw is the perfect accompaniment to so many meals. This salad will be a hit every time, from backyard picnics to taco Tuesday.
- It’s incredibly easy. It takes only a few minutes to put together if you purchase a bag of mixed coleslaw.
- You probably have all of the ingredients in your fridge and pantry.
What You Need to Make it
- Mayonnaise: Use a good quality mayonnaise, like Duke’s or Hellmann’s. Do not use salad dressing, or the dressing for your slaw will be too sweet. You can make your own spicy aioli with this recipe.
- Hot Sauce: Use a bottled or homemade hot sauce. You can substitute the hot sauce with a bit of apple cider vinegar and ground cayenne pepper, or diced, fresh jalapeños to taste.
- Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice will produce the best flavor.
- Salt: Use kosher salt or sea salt,
- Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper is always best.
- Coleslaw: You can use hand-cut slaw or a bag of premade coleslaw mix from the produce department of your favorite grocery store. See the instructions below.

How to Make it



Add the dressing to your coleslaw mix in a large bowl. Toss the coleslaw with the dressing well so no dry spots are left.
Let the coleslaw sit in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
What You Need for Homemade Coleslaw
- Cabbage: We like to use green and purple fresh cabbage for more color. Use a mandoline slicer or similar tool to julienne the cabbage into uniform pieces.
- Carrots: Julienne fresh carrots about the same size as the cabbage.
- Onion: Finely diced white or yellow onion adds great flavor.
What to do With Leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to four days. Don’t freeze the leftovers, they will not thaw well.
Tips for Perfect Spicy Coleslaw
- Don’t overdress this coleslaw. You don’t want it to get soggy. This recipe is the perfect amount of dressing for about ½ pound of coleslaw mix. That is half of a precut bag from the grocers or about 3 cups of mixed cabbage and carrots.
- Add the dressing a little at a time. Then mix the coleslaw and test it. Add more if needed to make it as creamy as you like.
- Use fresh cabbage and carrots or buy your premixed coleslaw mix.
What to Serve it With?
- Salmon Tacos
- Lobster Tacos
- Shrimp Tacos
- Fish Tacos
- Pulled Pork Sandwich
- Pulled Chicken Sandwich
- Brisket Tacos
- Brisket Sandwich
Frequently Asked Questions
Absolutely! Make this coleslaw up to two days ahead if you know you will have an extra busy day during the week.
Sure! Just add a portion of what the recipe calls for, then taste it. Adjust the heat level to your family’s tolerance level.
Yes, you can. Substitute your favorite plant-based mayonnaise for the mayonnaise in the recipe.
No. We don’t suggest freezing the leftover slaw.
That’s how easy it is to make a batch of spicy coleslaw. Make some for your next Taco Tuesday, and be prepared to be wowed.
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I hope you enjoyed the recipe today.
Enjoy. And have fun cooking!


Spicy Coleslaw
Ingredients
- ½ Cup mayonnaise
- 3-6 drops chipotle hot sauce
- ½ juice of 1/2 lime
- ¼ Teaspoon coarse kosher salt or sea salt
- ¼ Teaspoon cracked black pepper
- ½ 12 ounce bag coleslaw mix
Instructions
- Add all of the ingredients to a small bowl. Except the cabbage mix.½ Cup mayonnaise, 3-6 drops chipotle hot sauce, ½ juice of 1/2 lime, ¼ Teaspoon coarse kosher salt or sea salt, ¼ Teaspoon cracked black pepper
- Open the bag of cabbage mix. Add most of the dressing. Toss it well. If it needs more dressing, add it to taste.½ 12 ounce bag coleslaw mix
Notes
- Don’t overdress this coleslaw. You don’t want it to get soggy. This recipe is the perfect amount of dressing for about ½ pound of coleslaw mix. That is half of a precut bag from the grocers or about 3 cups of mixed cabbage and carrots.
- Add the dressing a little at a time. Then mix the coleslaw up and test it. Add more, if needed to get it as creamy as you like.
- Use fresh cabbage and carrots or buy your premixed coleslaw mix just a couple of days before you want to make it.
Nutrition
Originally published February 11, 2024.













