No, it doesn’t have to be all green, but there’s something so satisfying about this herb-packed twist on classic coleslaw. With crunchy cabbage, fiery peppers, creamy lime dressing, and a burst of garden-fresh herbs, this Spicy Green Garden Coleslaw is the perfect side to liven up any meal. Plus, I think the monochromatic look is quite fun! Perfect on tacos, next to grilled meats, or as a punchy sandwich toper, this slaw is filled with ingredients known for their role in supporting stress response, digestion, and inflammation reduction—all major players in the mental health game.
Cabbage – Rich in antioxidants like anthocyanins and vitamin C, cabbage helps reduce inflammation and supports a healthy gut, which plays a critical role in mental health. Plus, it has Ana amazing shelf life and is terribly cheap!
Hot Peppers – These contain capsaicin, which may trigger the release of endorphins (feel-good chemicals) and slightly boost metabolism.
Cilantro or Parsley – Detoxifying herbs that help remove heavy metals and support liver health, giving your body more bandwidth to manage stress.
Green Onion – Mildly prebiotic and rich in sulfur compounds, which help with detox and overall immune balance.
Sour Cream or Olive Oil – Choose sour cream for probiotic support (especially if it’s cultured), or olive oil for its healthy fats and polyphenols—both nourish the brain and stabilize blood sugar.
Lime Juice – A natural source of vitamin C, helping to counteract oxidative stress and support adrenal function.
Check out some of my kitchen staples here.
How to Make Spicy Green Garden Coleslaw Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2-3 cups cabbage, finely cut or shredded
- 1-3 hot peppers, finely chopped (adjust to taste)
- 3-4 tablespoons chopped cilantro (or parsley)
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 1/4 cup sour cream (or olive oil)
- Juice of 1 lime
- Sea salt, to taste
Instructions:
- Finely prep all vegetables and herbs.
- In a large bowl, mix the cabbage, hot peppers, cilantro (or parsley), and green onions.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the sour cream, lime juice, and salt.
- Combine everything and mix well until evenly coated.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Check out the reel here.
Variations & Serving Tips
Dairy-Free Option: Swap sour cream for extra virgin olive oil
Not a Cilantro Fan? I know. I used to be one of you- but fresh parsley is a great substitute and offers its own nutritional perks.
Serve this slaw with:
- Tacos (especially fish or carnitas!) This is defiantly going on my meal plan next week.
- BBQ sandwiches
- Grilled meats
- Or enjoy it as a crisp, stand-alone salad (I love to keep a premade salad in the fridge for snacks throughout the week)
Spicy Green Garden Coleslaw Recipe
Ingredients
- 2-3 cups cabbage finely chopped
- 1-3 hot peppers finely chopped (adjust to taste)
- 3-4 tablespoons chopped cilantro or parsley
- 2 green onions chopped
- 1/4 cup sour cream or EVOO
- Juice of 1 lime
- Sea salt to taste
Instructions
- Finely prep all vegetables and herbs.
- In a large bowl, mix the cabbage, hot peppers, cilantro (or parsley), and green onions.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the sour cream, lime juice, and salt.
- Combine everything and mix well until evenly coated.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Notes
- Tacos (especially fish or carnitas!)
- BBQ sandwiches
- Grilled meats or tofu
- Or enjoy it as a crisp, stand-alone salad
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