Spicy Sriracha Asian Coleslaw
When I think of summer gatherings, the first dish that comes to mind is Spicy Sriracha Asian Coleslaw. It’s a refreshing, crunchy side that effortlessly complements everything from grilled meats to burgers. I remember the first time I brought this dish to a cookout; my friends couldn’t get enough! The vibrant colors of the cabbage and carrots mixed with the spicy tang of sriracha created a beautiful harmony of flavors that was hard to resist. Now, every time I hear the sound of the grill firing up, I’m reminded that it’s time to whip up this amazing slaw.
Recipe Snapshot
10 mins
10 mins
0 mins
Medium
150 kcal
2 g
Keto, Paleo, Whole30
12 g
Chef’s Knife, Cutting Board, Whisk, Mixing Bowl
What We Adore About This Spicy Sriracha Asian Coleslaw
Unforgettable Flavor
What I love about Spicy Sriracha Asian Coleslaw is its unique combination of flavors. The heat from the sriracha mingles beautifully with the cool crunch of the cabbage, creating a dish that’s not only refreshing but also exciting. It’s a dish that truly awakens your taste buds.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether you’re throwing a backyard barbecue or hosting a casual dinner, this coleslaw is the perfect side. Its vibrant colors and bold flavors make it an instant hit. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, so you can focus on enjoying your gathering!
Healthy and Wholesome
This coleslaw is not just delicious; it’s also packed with nutrients. The vegetables provide essential vitamins and fiber. I often feel good knowing I’m offering something healthy that everyone can enjoy without sacrificing flavor.
Customizable to Your Liking
The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. If you’re a fan of spice, you can easily add more sriracha to crank up the heat. On the other hand, if you prefer something milder, simply reduce the amount of sriracha. You can even experiment with different veggies or add-ins like nuts for added crunch.
Make Ahead Convenience
One of the best things about Spicy Sriracha Asian Coleslaw is that it can be made ahead of time. You can prepare the dressing and chop the vegetables a day in advance, making it a stress-free option for busy days. Just toss everything together before serving for maximum freshness!
Great for Meal Prep
This coleslaw is ideal for meal prep. It keeps well in the fridge for a few days, allowing you to enjoy it as a healthy side dish throughout the week. I love pairing it with simple grilled chicken or on top of fish tacos for an extra zing.
What Goes Into Spicy Sriracha Asian Coleslaw

The ingredients for Spicy Sriracha Asian Coleslaw are as colorful as they are flavorful. Each component plays a vital role in delivering that perfect balance of texture and taste. The key players are the crunchy coleslaw mix and the zesty dressing that brings it all together.
- 16oz coleslaw mix: A mix of green and purple cabbage with carrots, this forms the crunchy base of the dish, providing various textures in every bite.
- 4 green onions: Diced for a mild onion flavor, they add freshness and a lovely green color.
- 1/2 cup cilantro: Chopped for an herby brightness that complements the spicy dressing.
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise: This creamy base adds richness to the dressing, balancing the spice of the sriracha.
- 2 tbsp sriracha: The star of the show, infusing the coleslaw with heat and flavor, it’s essential for that spicy kick.
- 1 tbsp lime juice: A splash of acidity to brighten the overall flavor profile and enhance the freshness of the vegetables.
Recipe Steps for Spicy Sriracha Asian Coleslaw

Making Spicy Sriracha Asian Coleslaw is a breeze, and I’m here to guide you through each step. You’ll be amazed at how quickly you can whip up this vibrant dish. Let’s get started!
- In a mixing bowl, combine 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 2 tbsp sriracha, and 1 tbsp lime juice. Use a whisk to blend them together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. The color will turn a lovely shade of pink as the sriracha integrates with the mayonnaise.
- In a large bowl, take your 16oz coleslaw mix. I always recommend using a mix that has both green and purple cabbage along with carrots for that beautiful color contrast. This adds both crunch and sweetness to the coleslaw.
- Next, add in the diced 4 green onions and chopped 1/2 cup cilantro. Their freshness will lighten up the dish and offer a nice herbal note.
- Now, pour the creamy dressing over the coleslaw mix. It’s important to do this step gently to ensure all the crunchy vegetables are coated evenly.
- Using a pair of tongs, toss the mixture gently until everything is well combined. You want to see each piece of cabbage glistening with that flavorful dressing.
- Once tossed, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it chill in the refrigerator. I recommend letting it sit for at least 30 minutes. This resting time will allow the flavors to meld and the coleslaw to become even more delicious.
- When you’re ready to serve, give the coleslaw another light toss. The colors will be vibrant, and the dressing will have settled perfectly. It’s now ready to be served!
- For a final touch, you can garnish with a sprinkle of extra cilantro or some sesame seeds for added texture. Serve chilled and enjoy the delightful crunch with every bite!
- If you have any leftovers (which is rare!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
Things Worth Knowing
- Fresh Ingredients Matter: Always use fresh vegetables for the best texture and flavor. Wilted greens won’t do justice to this dish.
- Adjusting Spice Levels: Feel free to adjust the amount of sriracha to suit your heat preference. Start with less, you can always add more!
- Letting It Rest: Allowing the coleslaw to chill enhances the flavors. It gives the ingredients time to mingle and marry.
- Serving Tips: This coleslaw pairs beautifully as a side for tacos, grilled meats, or even as a topping for sandwiches. Use it creatively!
Ways to Adapt This Recipe

There are countless ways to make Spicy Sriracha Asian Coleslaw your own. Here are some ideas to inspire your creativity.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. The flavors will continue to meld over time.
- Freezing: It’s best not to freeze this dish, as the textures of the vegetables will change once thawed.
- Pairing: This coleslaw is perfect with grilled chicken or shrimp. It also works great in wraps or as a topping for burgers.
- Variations: Consider adding shredded carrots or bell peppers for extra crunch and color.
- Make It Vegan: Substitute the mayonnaise with a vegan alternative to cater to different dietary needs.
- Herb Swap: Instead of cilantro, try using fresh mint for a different flavor profile.
What to Pair With Spicy Sriracha Asian Coleslaw
When it comes to serving Spicy Sriracha Asian Coleslaw, the options are endless. This dish shines as a side and can elevate any meal. Here are some suggestions:
- Grilled Chicken: The spicy slaw complements grilled chicken perfectly, providing a refreshing contrast to the smoky flavor.
- Tacos: Use it as a crunchy topping for your favorite tacos—whether they’re fish, veggie, or chicken.
- Burgers: Add a scoop of this coleslaw on top of burgers for an extra layer of flavor and texture.
- Picnics: This coleslaw is an excellent choice for potlucks and picnics. It holds up well and doesn’t wilt.
- Summer BBQs: Pair it with any grilled meats. It’s the ultimate summer side dish that everyone loves.
- Rice Bowls: Top rice bowls with this coleslaw for a vibrant and satisfying meal.
- Wraps: Use it as a filling for wraps, adding a spicy crunch to your lunch.
FAQ
Conclusion
The Spicy Sriracha Asian Coleslaw is a refreshing and flavorful dish that is sure to become a staple at your gatherings. Its crunchy texture and spicy kick make it a crowd-pleaser that pairs well with a variety of meals. I encourage you to give it a try and see how easy it is to make. Once you do, I have no doubt it will become your go-to side dish for summer cookouts and casual dinners alike!

Spicy Sriracha Asian Coleslaw
Equipment
- Chef's Knife
- Cutting Board
- Whisk
- Mixing Bowl
Ingredients
- 16oz coleslaw mix with green and purple cabbage, and carrots
- 4 green onions diced
- 1/2 cup cilantro chopped
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp sriracha
- 1 tbsp lime juice
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 2 tbsp sriracha, and 1 tbsp lime juice. Use a whisk to blend them together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. The color will turn a lovely shade of pink as the sriracha integrates with the mayonnaise.
- In a large bowl, take your 16oz coleslaw mix. I always recommend using a mix that has both green and purple cabbage along with carrots for that beautiful color contrast. This adds both crunch and sweetness to the coleslaw.
- Next, add in the diced 4 green onions and chopped 1/2 cup cilantro. Their freshness will lighten up the dish and offer a nice herbal note.
- Now, pour the creamy dressing over the coleslaw mix. It’s important to do this step gently to ensure all the crunchy vegetables are coated evenly.
- Using a pair of tongs, toss the mixture gently until everything is well combined. You want to see each piece of cabbage glistening with that flavorful dressing.
- Once tossed, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it chill in the refrigerator. I recommend letting it sit for at least 30 minutes. This resting time will allow the flavors to meld and the coleslaw to become even more delicious.
- When you’re ready to serve, give the coleslaw another light toss. The colors will be vibrant, and the dressing will have settled perfectly. It’s now ready to be served!
- For a final touch, you can garnish with a sprinkle of extra cilantro or some sesame seeds for added texture. Serve chilled and enjoy the delightful crunch with every bite!
- If you have any leftovers (which is rare!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
Notes
- Tip 1: To make a creamier coleslaw, double the dressing recipe.
- Tip 2: To make a more spicy coleslaw, add additional sriracha.
- Tip 3: To make a more mild coleslaw reduce the amount of sriracha.
- Tip 4: Dressing can be prepared up to 1 week in advance to save time.


