Name: Cajun Honey Jalapeño Slaw
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients: 1 (14-ounce) bag of coleslaw mix (shredded cabbage and carrots); 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 2 tablespoons honey; 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 1 jalapeño, finely diced (remove seeds for less heat); 1/2 teaspoon Cajun seasoning; Salt and black pepper, to taste

Why You’ll Love Cajun Honey Jalapeño Slaw Recipe

This slaw is light yet full of bold flavor. The tangy red wine vinegar and sweet honey balance the Cajun spice and jalapeño heat, creating a refreshing side that’s perfect for summer gatherings or adding a flavorful crunch to your meals. Unlike traditional coleslaws, it uses a vinaigrette instead of mayonnaise, making it ideal for outdoor events and easy to prepare.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1/3 cup olive oil
1/3 cup red wine vinegar
3 tablespoons honey
1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
1/4 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1/4 teaspoon hot pepper sauce
1 package coleslaw mix (or broccoli slaw mix)
1 jalapeño, minced
1/8 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper and salt to taste

Directions

In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, honey, Cajun seasoning, Worcestershire sauce, and hot pepper sauce to make a vinaigrette.
Add the coleslaw mix (or broccoli slaw mix) to the bowl with the dressing.
Stir in the minced jalapeño and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Toss everything together until the slaw is well coated with the dressing.
Refrigerate until ready to serve to allow the flavors to meld and develop more depth.

Servings and timing

Serves: 4–6
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes

Variations

Milder Heat: Reduce the amount of jalapeño and hot sauce for a gentler spice level.
Extra Sweet: Add an extra tablespoon of honey if you prefer sweeter slaw.
Different Crunch: Substitute part of the coleslaw mix with shredded red cabbage or carrots for extra color and texture.
Broccoli Slaw: Use a broccoli slaw mix instead of traditional coleslaw for a different flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover slaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Note: The flavors intensify over time and the slaw may become spicier the longer it sits, so adjust seasonings when serving later.
Reheating: This slaw is served cold and is not intended to be reheated.

FAQs

What makes this slaw different from traditional coleslaw?

This version uses a vinegar and oil‑based dressing with honey and Cajun spices instead of mayonnaise, giving it a lighter, tangier, and spicier flavor.

Can I make this slaw ahead of time?

Yes, it can be made several hours or even a day ahead. Flavors will develop further, though the heat from the jalapeño may intensify.

Is Cajun seasoning necessary?

Cajun seasoning adds a distinctive flavor, but you can substitute with blackening seasoning or your favorite spice blend if needed.

How can I reduce the spiciness?

To tone down the heat, remove the seeds from the jalapeño, use less hot sauce, or omit the jalapeño entirely.

Can I use fresh cabbage instead of bagged slaw mix?

Yes, you can shred fresh cabbage and carrots to replace the coleslaw mix if preferred.

What dishes pair well with this slaw?

It complements grilled meats, tacos, sandwiches, and pulled pork beautifully.

How long will the slaw last in the fridge?

Stored properly in an airtight container, it should last up to 3 days.

Can I adjust the sweetness?

Yes, increasing or decreasing the honey will adjust the sweetness to your taste.

Is this slaw gluten‑free?

Yes, as long as your Cajun seasoning and hot sauce are gluten‑free, this recipe is suitable for a gluten‑free diet.

Can I make this spicy slaw sweeter without adding more honey?

You can reduce the heat by using milder peppers or removing seeds, and add a splash of apple juice for extra sweetness without more honey.

Conclusion

Cajun Honey Jalapeño Slaw is a quick and flavorful twist on classic coleslaw that brings sweet, tangy, and spicy elements together in an easy no‑mayo dish. Whether you’re looking for a vibrant side for your next barbecue or a zesty topping for tacos and sandwiches, this slaw delivers bold taste with minimal effort. Enjoy the refreshing crunch and adjust the heat to suit your palate.