If you’re craving a dish that hits every note from crispy and fresh to creamy and tangy, look no further than this Keto BLT Coleslaw. It perfectly captures the classic flavors of a BLT sandwich but delivers them in a fresh, crunchy coleslaw form that’s tailor-made for anyone embracing low-carb and keto lifestyles. With crisp cabbage, juicy cherry tomatoes, savory bacon, and a luscious, tangy dressing, this Keto BLT Coleslaw is an absolute crowd-pleaser that’s ready in minutes and guaranteed to brighten up any meal or picnic.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simple ingredients make the magic happen here, each bringing its own texture, flavor, and color to this Keto BLT Coleslaw. From the crunchy cabbage to the smoky bacon and the zesty dressing, you’ll see how balancing these essentials creates a harmonious and irresistible dish.

12 ounces Bag of Coleslaw Mix: This pre-shredded blend of cabbage and carrots is the crisp base that gives the coleslaw its signature crunch and vibrant color.
1 cup Cherry Tomatoes (cut in half): Sweet and juicy, these halve tomatoes add pops of freshness and a slight tang that complements the bacon.
1/3 cup Bacon Pieces: Crispy, smoky bacon bits infuse the coleslaw with savory depth and that classic BLT flavor we all love.
2/3 cup Mayonnaise: Provides richness and creaminess, binding all the ingredients together with a luscious texture.
2 tbsp Apple Cider Vinegar: Adds a bright, tangy kick that balances the creamy dressing and cuts through the richness.
1 tbsp Sugar-Free Honey: A keto-friendly touch of sweetness to round out the acidity and enhance flavors without adding carbs.
1/4 cup Chopped Fresh Parsley: Brings a fresh herbal note and add a lovely green color to the mix.
1 pinch Ground Mustard Powder: A subtle hint of spice that elevates the dressing and adds complexity to every bite.

How to Make Keto BLT Coleslaw

Step 1: Combine the Veggies and Bacon

Start by tossing the coleslaw mix, halved cherry tomatoes, crispy bacon pieces, and fresh parsley together in a large mixing bowl. This step gives you a chance to admire the beautiful colors and textures coming together even before the dressing is added.

Step 2: Whisk the Dressing

In a small bowl, mix the mayonnaise with apple cider vinegar, sugar-free honey, ground mustard powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk until the dressing is smooth and well combined, delivering that perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet flavors essential for the Keto BLT Coleslaw.

Step 3: Combine Dressing with Salad

Pour the dressing over the vegetable and bacon mixture, then stir everything gently but thoroughly to make sure every shred of cabbage and tomato is coated evenly. This ensures each bite bursts with flavor and creaminess.

Step 4: Serve or Chill

You can serve the Keto BLT Coleslaw immediately for a fresher crunch, or chill it in the fridge for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld beautifully. Both ways are delicious, so choose what suits your craving and timing!

How to Serve Keto BLT Coleslaw

Garnishes

A sprinkle of extra crisp bacon or a little fresh parsley chopped finely on top can elevate the presentation and flavor of your Keto BLT Coleslaw. Adding a wedge of lemon on the side gives the option for a bright squeeze of zest that complements the dish wonderfully.

Side Dishes

This coleslaw shines alongside grilled meats, especially juicy steaks or smoky chicken. It also pairs beautifully with a light avocado salad or even as a crisp topping for your favorite keto burgers, turning any meal into something special and satisfying.

Creative Ways to Present

Think beyond the bowl! Serve your Keto BLT Coleslaw in small lettuce cups for a fun appetizer or stack it on keto-friendly crackers for a crunchy snack. You could even stuff it inside avocado halves for a colorful and Instagram-worthy keto lunch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can store any leftover Keto BLT Coleslaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep in mind the cabbage will soften slightly as it sits, but the flavors will deepen beautifully.

Freezing

Because of the fresh vegetables and creamy dressing, this coleslaw does not freeze well. The texture and taste will be compromised after freezing, so it’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated.

Reheating

This dish is generally served cold or at room temperature, so reheating is not recommended. Instead, just give the coleslaw a gentle stir before serving if it’s been chilled for a while.

FAQs

Can I use regular honey instead of sugar-free honey?

Absolutely! If you’re not strictly following keto, regular honey works fine—but remember it will add extra sugars and affect the carb count.

What type of bacon is best for this recipe?

Any thick-cut, quality bacon works great—just cook it until it’s nice and crispy, then crumble it. This adds a fabulous texture and smoky flavor to your Keto BLT Coleslaw.

Is it okay to prepare the coleslaw mix myself?

Of course. You can shred fresh green and purple cabbage and carrots for an even fresher feel, but the bagged mix is a great time saver and works perfectly.

Can I make the Keto BLT Coleslaw vegan?

With some swaps like using vegan mayo and tempeh bacon, you can absolutely veganize this dish while keeping most of the flavors intact.

How spicy is the ground mustard powder in this recipe?

The ground mustard powder adds just a subtle warmth and depth—not heat—so it won’t make the salad spicy but will boost its flavor complexity.

Final Thoughts

I really hope you give this Keto BLT Coleslaw a try because it’s one of those recipes that feels like a hug on a plate but also leaves your taste buds dancing. It’s fresh, flavorful, and effortlessly quick to make, perfect for anytime you want to enjoy the classic BLT vibes without the carbs. Whether you’re meal prepping or whipping up a quick side, this coleslaw will become your new go-to favorite in no time.