Rad Foodie

  • Recipes
    • Recipe Index
    • Mains
    • Breakfasts
    • Sides
    • Baked Goods
    • Soups
    • Salads
    • Desserts
    • Snacks
    • Sauces, Dressings, Dips
  • Articles
  • About
  • Subscribe
menu icon
go to homepage
  • Recipe Index
  • Articles
  • About
  • Subscribe
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • Twitter
  • subscribe
    search icon
    Homepage link
    • Recipe Index
    • Articles
    • About
    • Subscribe
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • Twitter
  • ×
    Home » Recipes » Salads

    Cilantro Lime Gluten-free Coleslaw (dairy-free and low-FODMAP)

    Published: Jul 30, 2022 · Modified: Jul 21, 2024 by Tracey Hatch-Rizzi
    This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
    2 Comments

    Share this

    Jump to Recipe
    Dairy-free coleslaw mixed in a white bowl, with a wooden spoon.
    Keto coleslaw seasoned with pepper in a white bowl with a fork and spoon.
    White bowl of dairy-free creamy coleslaw topped with chopped cilantro and pumpkin seeds.
    Split image of gluten-free coleslaw in a white bowl and in a bowl with a wood spoon.
    Cilantro lime coleslaw in a white bowl with a lime and cilantro garnish.

    This super creamy dairy-free, low-carb coleslaw with cilantro and lime is a delicious twist on traditional coleslaw.  Pickled pepperoncini adds a touch of heat and festivity to this fresh cabbage salad.  It’s a perfect summer side dish for cookouts, barbecues and picnics.  And, I’ve included an AIP and Whole30 coleslaw variation!

    White bowl of dairy-free creamy coleslaw topped with chopped cilantro and pumpkin seeds.
    Jump to:
    • Why you'll love this recipe
    • Is coleslaw low-FODMAP and can you have coleslaw on keto?
    • Salad ingredients
    • Dressing Ingredients
    • Is cabbage low-FODMAP?
    • Shredding cabbage
    • Instructions
    • How to Store
    • Variations
    • Serving suggestions
    • FAQ
    • What to serve with sugar-free coleslaw
    • 📖 Recipe
    • 💬 Comments

    This healthy, sugar-free coleslaw recipe is so easy to make and is a delicious, classic summer side dish. A big heaping scoop is perfect to top off a pulled pork sandwich made with my Low-Carb Sandwich Thins and Slow Cooker Pulled Pork. Or, serve as a side with a savory filet of Indian Spiced Salmon.

    I’ve turned up the volume on the flavors by adding cilantro, lime, pepperoncini and green onion.  It’s a versatile slaw recipe to serve as a BBQ side dish with Smoked Flank Steak or an easy Traeger Pork Tenderloin. The creamy, sugar-free dressing is tangy and savory, with a hint of sweetness. It's actually a variation of my Cilantro Lime Salad Dressing, just a little bit thicker.

    Why you'll love this recipe

    • Healthy and delicious – this salad is a great way to eat your veggies! It's fresh and crisp with a light, creamy dressing
    • Low-carb and sugar-free – using alternative sweetener keeps this low-carb, with just a little sweetness, like a classic slaw recipe
    • Easy with simple ingredients – make a quick salad for BBQs, picnics and potlucks
    • Special diet friendly – this is a keto-friendly, paleo and low-FODMAP coleslaw that can easily be altered to make an AIP and Whole30 coleslaw (see Variations, below)

    Is coleslaw low-FODMAP and can you have coleslaw on keto?

    Yes, this is both FODMAP-friendly and low-carb keto.  Cabbage is naturally low in carbs and a healthy low-FODMAP vegetable. It pairs perfectly with my gluten-free coleslaw dressing that includes low-carb and FODMAP-friendly ingredients.  Most dressings for slaw call for sugar that this recipe replaces with alternative sweetener.  If you prefer, you can choose to leave the sweetener out entirely.

    Ingredients for coleslaw on a board with black text labels.

    Salad ingredients

    • Cabbage – you can use green or red cabbage or a combination of both.  Chop or shred to your preferred texture using your food processor, knife, mandolin or box grater.  You can use a pre-shredded bag of coleslaw mix or prepare from a whole head of cabbage.  Definitely visit my How to Shred Cabbage post – it’s a deep dive into DIY cabbage shredding.
    • Shredded carrots – these bring a splash of color, texture and a slightly sweet flavor.   They add a very miniscule amount of carbs to the entire recipe, but feel free to leave them out if you wish.  Freshly grated are best, but pre-shredded, bagged carrots work well, too.
    • Green onion – finely sliced.  For low-FODMAP, use only the green tops.
    • Cilantro – this herb is amazing with cabbage and pairs so well with tangy, acidic lime
    • Pepperoncini – these pickled peppers add tantalizing zing to the salad.  Finely slice them for even distribution in the slaw.  And, absolutely use the juice!  Before slicing, I hold the pepper over the mixing bowl and slightly pierce the pepper with the tip of the knife, releasing the juice into the salad.  If you’re following an AIP diet, simply eliminate these.
    Ingredients for keto coleslaw dressing on a board with black text labels.

    Dressing Ingredients

    • Mayonnaise – creamy mayo gives this dressing that classic taste of traditional coleslaw.  It adds a savory richness that keeps you coming back for more.  For my AIP, low-FODMAP and Whole30 friends, make sure you check the label for any unwanted ingredients.  Or, try making some from scratch.
    • Lime juice and lime zest – zested lime and freshly squeezed juice adds a bright flavor and complexity when paired with the creamy dressing
    • Sweetener – while totally optional, I like just a hint of sweetness in my slaw.  Cabbage can have a slight bitterness when eaten raw and a touch of sweet can make a big difference.  I like to use Swerve Confectioners sweetener or Stevia to keep this coleslaw dressing sugar-free.
    • Salt and pepper to taste – as this salad is already bursting with flavor, I find I use very little of each.  Black pepper adds some earthy notes.  You may find that you don’t need to add salt at all, depending on what kind of mayonnaise you’re using.  Feel free to eliminate it – you don’t want a salty coleslaw!

    TIP: When choosing a sweetener to use, consider the size of the granules.  Some sweeteners may not dissolve readily in the dressing and give a slight grainy texture.  Using a powdered sweetener may be a better option.

    Is cabbage low-FODMAP?

    Monash University has tested several varieties of cabbage and found that green and red cabbage are low-FODMAP in serving sizes of less than ¾ cup.  So, this is great news for cabbage lovers on a low-FODMAP diet!  This recipe is made with a low-FODMAP salad dressing, so enjoy your coleslaw – just don’t go overboard on portion size and use a mayonnaise that's suitable for a low-FODMAP diet.

    Keep in mind that cruciferous vegetables like cabbage contain an indigestible sugar called raffinose that may cause some digestive upset, especially for people with IBS or IBD.

    Red and green shredded cabbage in a white bowl.

    Shredding cabbage

    Shredding your own cabbage is so easy and you’ll save money not having to buy a packaged coleslaw mix.  And, you get to decide the texture of your cabbage slices for your slaw.  Chopped, grated or sliced – it's entirely up to you.

    You can use a chef's knife, a mandolin, a box grater (not my favorite method) or a food processor (the best!) to quickly prep a head of cabbage for your salad.

    See my full post on How to Shred Cabbage for a deep dive into the different ways to cut and shred cabbage to make the perfect slaw.

    Instructions

    This easy side dish comes together in just minutes (and tastes better than anything you'll find at the deli counter):

    Gluten-free coleslaw dressing in a white bowl with a whisk.

    In a large bowl, combine all of the dressing ingredients and whisk until thoroughly combined.

    Cabbage and other vegetables for coleslaw in a white bowl ready to mix.

    Add the chopped and shredded vegetables to the bowl and mix.  Make sure to scrape the bottom of the bowl to incorporate all the dressing.

    Dairy-free coleslaw mixed in a white bowl, with a wooden spoon.

    TIP:  I like to make coleslaw using just one large bowl, rather than making the dressing in a separate container, then combining everything in another bowl.  It’s one less dish to wash!

    How to Store

    Store in an air-tight container for up to 5 days.  After a couple of days, the cabbage may release some water.  Simply drain it off the salad or stir it in.  Add a dollop of additional mayo, if needed.

    Variations

    • AIP coleslaw – omit the pepperoncini and black pepper. Be sure you use an AIP friendly mayonnaise.  If you want an extra ‘zing’ to the salad, add a touch of apple cider vinegar or some grated horseradish for an extra bit of heat.  It’s divine!
    • Whole 30 coleslaw – omit the sweetener and try adding finely chopped dates, dried currants or other dried fruit, such as apricots.  They will add a few extra carbs, but so much flavor!
    • Add toppings – bacon bits, sliced almonds, pepitas (pumpkin seeds) or hemp, chia or sunflower seeds add extra flavor and crunch
    • Top with crumbled cheese – Cotija cheese is a perfect dry, salty, crumbly addition
    • Spices – add ¼ teaspoon of homemade Tikka Masala Powder for some additional umami and wow factor!
    keto coleslaw seasoned with pepper in a white bowl with a fork and spoon.

    Serving suggestions

    • Pair with pulled pork – for a busy weeknight meal, serve this creamy keto coleslaw alongside Crock Pot Pulled Pork or plop a large scoop on top of a pulled pork sandwich made with Low-carb Sandwich Thins.  It's the best accompaniment for pulled pork!
    • As a side dish – coleslaw makes a perfect side for smoked Traeger Beef Ribs, Smoked Flank Steak, Smoked Pork Tenderloin or any other summer barbecue favorites
    • Taco topping – try this as a cabbage taco slaw to top some Easy Keto Carnitas tacos or fish tacos. And don’t forget to add some Low-FODMAP Guacamole!
    • Lettuce substitute – use it in place of lettuce on burgers, sandwiches, in wraps or burritos

    FAQ

    Is coleslaw gluten-free?

    Most coleslaws are gluten-free, but with store-bought pre-made slaws, it's difficult to know for sure. There are some certified gluten-free dressings that can be used, but making from scratch is the best way to ensure it's gluten-free.

    How long is coleslaw good for?

    If kept sealed in the refrigerator, it can last up to 5 days.  The cabbage may release some water that can be drained off or simply stirred into the salad.

    Can you freeze coleslaw with mayonnaise?

    Yes!  Store it in the freezer in a tightly sealed, freezer-safe container. Make sure you eat it within 6 months.  The quality will start to decline and there’s a potential for freezer burn if frozen for longer.

    After it’s thawed, the cabbage will release some water that can be drained off or stirred back into the salad.

    Is cabbage a superfood?

    With an outstanding nutrient profile, cabbage can be considered a ‘superfood’.  It’s a nutritional powerhouse and is high in vitamins C and K, as well as other antioxidants. It may help prevent certain diseases, decrease inflammation and improve digestion, due to its high fiber content.

    Is coleslaw dairy-free?

    Many pre-packaged coleslaws contain sour cream or yogurt and are not dairy-free. Always be sure to read the ingredients so you know for sure. Homemade dairy-free coleslaw is not only more economical, but you know exactly what's in it!

    Bowl of low-fodmap coleslaw in a white bowl with a lime wedge and topped with chopped cilantro and pumpkin seeds.

    What to serve with sugar-free coleslaw

    • Close up of carnitas on a low carb tortilla with avocado and lime slices and a cilantro garnish.
      Easy Keto Carnitas - Three Cooking Methods!
    • Sliced beef ribs on a cutting board with a side of barbeque sauce in a small bowl.
      Traeger Beef Ribs
    • Smoked flank steak sliced and drizzled with green chimichurri sauce.
      Smoked Flank Steak
    • Pulled pork piled on a sesame seed bun with sauce dripping down the side.
      Crock Pot Pulled Pork (low-FODMAP and keto)

    Did you make this recipe? Let me know how you liked it by giving a star rating and leaving a comment!

    📖 Recipe

    Cilantro lime coleslaw in a white bowl with a lime and cilantro garnish.

    Cilantro Lime Gluten-free Coleslaw (dairy-free and low-FODMAP)

    Author: Tracey Hatch-Rizzi
    This super creamy dairy-free, low-carb coleslaw with cilantro and lime is a delicious twist on traditional coleslaw.  Pickled pepperoncini adds a touch of heat and festivity to this fresh cabbage salad.  It’s a perfect summer side dish for cookouts, barbecues and picnics.  And, I’ve included an AIP and Whole30 coleslaw variation!
    5 from 2 votes
    Print Recipe Pin Recipe Rate this Recipe
    Prevent your screen from going dark
    Prep Time: 15 minutes minutes
    Total Time: 15 minutes minutes
    Category: Salads
    Cuisine: American
    Method: No cook
    Yield: 6 cups
    Diet:Gluten Free, Vegetarian
    Special Diet:AIP, Keto, Low-Carb, Low-FODMAP, Whole30

    Ingredients
     
     

    For the salad

    • 1 medium cabbage (about 6 cups or 8-10 oz, shredded)
    • 2 green onions (green part only for low-FODMAP)
    • ½ cup carrots (shredded or thinly sliced)
    • ½ cup cilantro (chopped)
    • 4 pepperoncini (large - thinly sliced)

    For the dressing

    • 1 cup mayonnaise
    • 2 tablespoons lime juice
    • 1 teaspoon lime zest
    • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
    • salt (to taste)
    • 2 teaspoons stevia (use sweetener of choice)

    Instructions
     

    • Combine the salad dressing ingredients in a large bowl and whisk together to combine.
    • Add the sliced and chopped vegetables to the bowl and mix.
    • Add salt and pepper to taste.

    Notes

    Variations

    • AIP coleslaw – omit the pepperoncini and black pepper. Be sure you use an AIP friendly mayonnaise.  If you want an extra ‘zing’ to the salad, add a touch of apple cider vinegar or some grated horseradish for an extra bit of heat.  It’s divine!
    • Whole 30 coleslaw – omit the sweetener and try adding finely chopped dates, dried currants or other dried fruit, such as apricots.  They will add a few extra carbs, but so much flavor!
    • Add toppings – bacon bits, sliced almonds, pepitas (pumpkin seeds) or hemp, chia or sunflower seeds add extra flavor and crunch
    • Top with crumbled cheese – Cotija cheese is a perfect dry, salty, crumbly addition
    • Spices – add ¼ teaspoon of homemade Tikka Masala Powder for some additional umami and wow factor!

    Nutrition

    Serving: 0.75 cupCalories: 149 kcalCarbohydrates: 7 gProtein: 2 gFat: 13 gCholesterol: 14 mgSodium: 115 mgFiber: 3 gSugar: 4 gNet Carbs*: 4 g

    *Net carbs = carbohydrates - fiber

    Nutritional information is an estimate, calculated using online tools and does not include optional ingredients unless otherwise indicated.

    Did you make this recipe?Leave a review below, then snap a picture and tag @Rad_Foodie on Instagram so I can see it!

    More Salad Recipes

    • Fattoush salad on a white plate with a wood background and napkin.
      Lebanese Fattoush Salad Recipe
    • Tomato cucumber Mediterranean salad in a white bowl with a serving spoon topped with feta cheese and olives.
      Mediterranean Cucumber and Tomato Salad
    • Miso tuna on golden toasted slice of bread.
      Miso Tuna Salad
    • Plate of burrata caprese salad of multi-colored sliced large and cherry tomatoes with a burrata cheese ball in the center.
      Burrata Caprese

    Share this

    Comments

    1. Joel says

      October 13, 2022 at 3:23 pm

      5 stars
      Best ever, hands down.

      Reply
      • Tracey Hatch-Rizzi says

        October 14, 2022 at 10:19 am

        Hi Joel,

        I'm so happy to hear you liked the recipe! It's definitely one of my favorite things!!

        Take care,
        Tracey

        Reply
    5 from 2 votes (1 rating without comment)

    Leave a Reply Cancel reply

    Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

    Recipe Rating





    Dairy-free coleslaw mixed in a white bowl, with a wooden spoon.
    Keto coleslaw seasoned with pepper in a white bowl with a fork and spoon.
    White bowl of dairy-free creamy coleslaw topped with chopped cilantro and pumpkin seeds.
    Split image of gluten-free coleslaw in a white bowl and in a bowl with a wood spoon.
    Cilantro lime coleslaw in a white bowl with a lime and cilantro garnish.
    Blog author in a green blouse outside with green plants behind.

    Hey there! I'm Tracey, a FODMAP-trained recipe developer and acupuncturist living a rad low-FODMAP and low-carb lifestyle. I love creating healthy, flavorful recipes, often with global ingredients. Special diets should never be boring and taste buds deserve to be happy!

    Learn more about me →

    Trending recipes

    These are the most popular recipes readers are loving right now.

    • Sliced beef ribs on a cutting board with a side of barbeque sauce in a small bowl.
      Traeger Beef Ribs
    • Platter of golden smoked turkey breast sliced and garnished with fresh herbs, cranberries and pomegranite.
      Traeger Smoked Turkey Breast Without Brine
    • White bowl of chimichurri sauce with a spoon in it on a clay textured plate with pepper flakes and parsley on the side.
      Mexican Chimichurri Sauce with Cilantro
    • Smoked flank steak sliced and drizzled with green chimichurri sauce.
      Smoked Flank Steak
    • Small bowl of sugar-free icing with a spoon next to it on a white marble board.
      Sugar-free Icing and Glaze
    • Smoked sirloin steaks on a white platter with slices, red chimichurri sauce and a cilantro garnish.
      Smoked Sirloin Steak
    • Preserved lemon puree in a small white bowl with a wooden spoon scooping some out.
      Preserved Lemons and Preserved Lemon Paste
    • Convection roasted whole chicken on a platter with herbs and citrus garnish.
      Convection Oven Roast Chicken

    Subscribe

    Click here to sign up for emails

    Get new recipes and updates delivered right to your inbox!

    July 4th recipes

    Celebrate Independence Day with recipes that are perfect for your July 4th weekend.

    • Smoked pork loin partly sliced on a wood board next to flake salt in a small bowl, a grilled lemon half, and fresh parsley.
      Smoked Pork Loin
    • Smoked sirloin steaks on a white platter with slices, red chimichurri sauce and a cilantro garnish.
      Smoked Sirloin Steak
    • White bowl of almond flour biscuits with one in halves, with a small ramekin of butter and a napkin on the side.
      Cheddar Almond Flour Drop Biscuits
    • Cilantro lime coleslaw in a white bowl with a lime and cilantro garnish.
      Cilantro Lime Gluten-free Coleslaw (dairy-free and low-FODMAP)
    • Tomato cucumber Mediterranean salad in a white bowl with a serving spoon topped with feta cheese and olives.
      Mediterranean Cucumber and Tomato Salad
    • Ricotta party dip in a blue bowl with a spoon topped with maple syrup and herbs.
      Whipped Ricotta Dip
    • Dessert dish of assorted red and black berries topped with a swirl of low-carb whipped cream.
      Low-carb Whipped Cream (keto and sugar-free)
    • Lemon raspberry bundt cake topped with sugar-free icing on a blue cake pedestal with slices.
      Gluten-free Bundt Cake with Lemon and Raspberries

    Educational Resources

    • Guide to a Ketogenic Diet
    • Importance of Electrolytes on Keto

    Footer

    Dairy-free coleslaw mixed in a white bowl, with a wooden spoon.
    Keto coleslaw seasoned with pepper in a white bowl with a fork and spoon.
    White bowl of dairy-free creamy coleslaw topped with chopped cilantro and pumpkin seeds.
    Split image of gluten-free coleslaw in a white bowl and in a bowl with a wood spoon.
    Cilantro lime coleslaw in a white bowl with a lime and cilantro garnish.

    ↑ back to top

    About

    • About
    • Privacy Policy
    • Accessibility Statement
    • Terms & Conditions

    Subscribe

    • Sign Up! for emails and updates

    Contact

    • Contact Us

    As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

    Copyright © 2025 Rad Foodie, LLC - Be Rad. Eat Well. All rights reserved.

    • 25
    54 shares

    Rate This Recipe

    Your vote:




    A rating is required
    A name is required
    An email is required

    Recipe Ratings without Comment

    Something went wrong. Please try again.