With the sun shining and the scent of summer in the air, there’s something spectacular about bringing flavors from vibrant street food right into your kitchen. This Mexican Street Corn Coleslaw takes the essence of beloved “elote” and transforms it into an easy-to-make side dish that’s bursting with fresh, zesty appeal. The crunchy cabbage mingles perfectly with sweet, charred corn and a creamy dressing that’s sure to delight your taste buds. It not only pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or tacos but also stands tall as a refreshing meal on its own. Say goodbye to boring salads and hello to this colorful coleslaw that captures the spirited essence of summer gatherings. What dishes are you planning to complement this delightful coleslaw with? Why Is This Coleslaw a Game-Changer? Flavorful Fusion: This Mexican Street Corn Coleslaw brings summer street food right to your table with vibrant flavors and textures that excite. Quick & Easy: Just a few simple steps turn fresh ingredients into a delicious side dish, making it perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings. Crowd-Pleaser: Its unique flavor profile appeals to everyone, ensuring your guests will be coming back for seconds! Versatile Pairing: Whether paired with grilled meats, tacos, or enjoyed solo, this coleslaw complements countless meals seamlessly. Ready to elevate your salad game? Pair it with grilled chicken or try it alongside Sprouts Kale Corn for a full spread! Mexican Street Corn Coleslaw Ingredients For the Base Shredded Cabbage – Provides structure and crunch, and using both green and purple cabbage adds a pop of color. Shredded Carrots – Adds sweetness and a bright orange hue; consider substituting with thinly sliced bell peppers for a twist. For the Seasoning Chopped Fresh Cilantro – Offers fresh, citrusy notes, but can be omitted for a milder flavor. Chopped Red Onion – Adds sharpness; swap with green onions for a gentler bite. Corn Kernels (Fresh, Canned, or Frozen) – Essential for the Mexican street corn touch; opt for fresh for the best flavor profile. For the Dressing Mayonnaise – Forms the creamy base of the dressing; Greek yogurt makes for a lighter alternative. Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt – Adds a delightful tang; Greek yogurt is a healthier choice. Crumbled Cotija Cheese (or Feta Cheese) – Provides a salty kick; use feta for a milder flavor. Chili Powder – Infuses warmth and spice; adjust to your heat preference. Smoked Paprika – Delivers a smoky depth—regular paprika is a suitable substitute if you don’t have it on hand. Minced Garlic – Contributes aromatic flavor; fresh garlic is highly recommended. Juice of 1 Lime – Brightens the salad, and lemon juice can work in a pinch. Salt and Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust to your taste. Optional Add-Ins Diced Jalapeños – For an extra spicy kick, mix these in. Diced Avocado – Adds creaminess and healthy fats—feel free to experiment! This Mexican Street Corn Coleslaw is not only a feast for the eyes but also a delightful addition to any meal! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Mexican Street Corn Coleslaw Step 1: Combine the Base Ingredients In a large mixing bowl, add the shredded cabbage, shredded carrots, chopped fresh cilantro, and chopped red onion. Toss the ingredients together until well-mixed, ensuring that each component is evenly distributed. This vibrant blend serves as the crunchy base of your Mexican Street Corn Coleslaw. Set the bowl aside to focus on preparing the next component. Step 2: Char the Corn Preheat a skillet over medium-high heat for 2 minutes, then add your corn kernels. Sauté the corn for about 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are lightly charred and golden brown, which enhances their sweetness and flavor. Once done, remove the skillet from heat and let the corn cool slightly before incorporating it into the dressing. Step 3: Prepare the Dressing In a separate small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream or Greek yogurt, crumbled cotija cheese, chili powder, smoked paprika, minced garlic, lime juice, and a pinch of salt and black pepper. Whisk these ingredients together until the mixture is smooth and creamy, creating a delightful dressing that will bring together the flavors of your Mexican Street Corn Coleslaw. Step 4: Mix in the Charred Corn Add the charred corn to the dressing you prepared in the previous step, ensuring that every kernel is well-coated with the creamy mixture. The char adds a wonderful smoked flavor that complements the tangy dressing beautifully. Stir gently to combine, care not to mash the corn, while ensuring it is distributed evenly throughout the dressing. Step 5: Combine Corn Mixture with Cabbage Pour the corn mixture over the bowl of shredded cabbage and other base ingredients. Using two large utensils, gently toss the coleslaw to ensure every piece of cabbage and carrot is coated with the flavorful dressing. This step is essential to achieve that delicious harmony of tastes in your Mexican Street Corn Coleslaw. Step 6: Taste and Adjust Seasoning Once everything is combined, take a moment to taste your Mexican Street Corn Coleslaw. If needed, add more lime juice, salt, or pepper to enhance the flavor. Adjusting the seasoning at this stage will help to bring out the freshness and zestiness of the dish, ensuring it’s just right before serving. Step 7: Chill and Serve For the best results, cover your coleslaw and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes. This resting time allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making the coleslaw even more delicious. Serve chilled as a refreshing accompaniment to grilled meats, tacos, or as a standalone salad that captures the essence of summer! What to Serve with Mexican Street Corn Coleslaw? Elevate your dining experience with delightful pairings that dance alongside the vibrant freshness of this summer-inspired dish. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Juicy and slightly charred, these skewers enhance the smoky notes of the coleslaw, while their protein adds heartiness. Fish Tacos: The light, flaky texture of fish perfectly complements the crispness of the coleslaw, creating a refreshing bite that feels like a coastal vacation. Pork Carnitas: Rich and savory, this tender meat balances the zingy flavors of the coleslaw, resulting in a delightful contrast of tastes. Corn on the Cob: More corn, you ask? Enjoying sweet, grilled corn alongside your Mexican Street Corn Coleslaw adds a fun, playful element to any meal. Avocado Salad: Creamy and cool, this salad’s richness harmonizes beautifully with the zesty crunch of the coleslaw, making each bite a luxurious experience. Chips and Salsa: The salty crunch of tortilla chips paired with fresh salsa creates an engaging textural contrast, inviting snacking between bites of your coleslaw. Limeade or Mojito: Stay refreshed with a zesty drink that echoes the lime flavors in the coleslaw, enhancing the overall dining experience with vibrant citrus notes. Flan or Tres Leches Cake: For dessert, choose these classic Mexican treats to round off your meal with a sweet, indulgent finale that captures the festive spirit. How to Store and Freeze Mexican Street Corn Coleslaw Fridge: Store your coleslaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s sealed well to maintain freshness. Freezer: While freezing is not recommended for this dish due to the texture of the vegetables, you can freeze the dressing separately for later use. Just blend it well after thawing. Reheating: If serving leftovers, gently mix and taste before serving. You can add a splash of lime juice to refresh the flavors. Best Enjoyed Fresh: For the ultimate taste experience, enjoy your Mexican Street Corn Coleslaw fresh. The flavors will be most vibrant and delightful when served soon after preparation. Make Ahead Options These Mexican Street Corn Coleslaw make-ahead options are perfect for busy cooks looking to save time in the kitchen! You can prepare the shredded cabbage, carrots, and chopped red onion up to 24 hours in advance; simply store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to retain their crispness. Additionally, char the corn and mix it with the dressing—combining mayonnaise, sour cream or Greek yogurt, and spices—ready to go up to 3 days ahead. Keep the dressed salad and veggie components separate until you’re ready to serve to prevent sogginess. When it’s time to enjoy, toss everything together, adjust seasoning, and you’ll have a fresh, delightful coleslaw ready in no time! Expert Tips for Mexican Street Corn Coleslaw Fresh Ingredients: Use the freshest corn possible for the best flavor and texture; frozen corn can be used but should be well-thawed and drained. Char the Corn: Charring corn enhances its sweetness and adds depth. Aim for a golden-brown color to maximize flavor. Chill Before Serving: Allow your Mexican Street Corn Coleslaw to rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This melds the flavors beautifully, making every bite a delight. Adjust to Taste: Always taste and adjust seasoning—this is crucial! More lime juice, salt, or pepper can elevate the dish to perfection. Explore Variations: Feel free to get creative! Adding diced jalapeños boosts spice, while diced avocado adds a creamy richness for a different twist. Mexican Street Corn Coleslaw Variations Embrace the opportunity to personalize your coleslaw with these exciting twists and swaps! Vegan: Swap mayonnaise and sour cream with avocado or a dairy-free yogurt alternative for a creamy, plant-based delight. Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to deliver some heat that will invigorate your taste buds. Cheese Swap: For a dairy-free option, omit cheese or use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy. Crunchy Add-Ins: Toss in sunflower seeds or nuts for an added crunch and texture contrast, taking your coleslaw to new heights. Herbaceous Twist: Substitute cilantro with fresh parsley or mint if you prefer a milder herb flavor, creating a harmonious blend. Flavorful Boost: Add a tablespoon of lime zest for an intensified citrus punch that brightens every bite. Tropical Variation: Incorporate diced mango or pineapple to bring in a sweet tropical flair that complements the zesty dressing wonderfully. Perfect Pairing: Serve alongside grilled shrimp or fish tacos, or consider pairing with other dishes like Sprouts Kale Corn for a delightful, colorful table spread! Mexican Street Corn Coleslaw Recipe FAQs How do I choose the best corn for this coleslaw? Absolutely! For the sweetest flavor and optimal texture, fresh corn on the cob is your best friend. Look for kernels that are vibrant and firm without any dark spots or dents. If using frozen corn, ensure it’s thawed and well-drained for the best results. What’s the best way to store leftover coleslaw? Store your Mexican Street Corn Coleslaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps maintain its crunch and freshness while keeping the flavors vibrant. Be sure to mix it gently before serving as the ingredients may settle. Can I freeze Mexican Street Corn Coleslaw? While it’s not recommended to freeze the entire coleslaw due to the texture of the vegetables, you can freeze the dressing separately. To do this, whisk together the dressing ingredients, portion them into freezer-safe bags, and seal tightly. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to use, thaw in the fridge and mix well before combining with fresh veggies. What should I do if my coleslaw is too watery? Very! If you find your coleslaw is too watery, it’s likely due to excess moisture in the vegetables. To remedy this, simply drain off any excess liquid. You can also toss the shredded cabbage with a pinch of salt and let it sit for about 10-15 minutes before mixing to draw out moisture, then rinse and squeeze out the excess water. Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind? Absolutely! This coleslaw is vegetarian-friendly, but if you’re cooking for guests with allergies or special diets, make sure to check for dairy allergies with the cotija cheese and creamy dressing. You can easily omit these or use dairy-free alternatives to accommodate dietary needs. How can I make this coleslaw spicier? For those who enjoy a kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dressing. Start with small amounts, taste testing as you go along, to find the perfect heat level for your palate. Enjoy creating a coleslaw that sings with zesty flavors! Mexican Street Corn Coleslaw: Refreshing & Zesty Summer Salad This Mexican Street Corn Coleslaw is a vibrant and refreshing side dish, perfect for summer gatherings and pairs well with grilled meats. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 7 minutes minsChilling Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 52 minutes mins Servings: 6 servingsCourse: SaladsCuisine: MexicanCalories: 180 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Base4 cups Shredded Cabbage Use both green and purple for color1 cup Shredded Carrots Can substitute with bell peppersFor the Seasoning1/2 cup Chopped Fresh Cilantro Omit for milder flavor1/2 cup Chopped Red Onion Can swap with green onions2 cups Corn Kernels Fresh preferred or canned/frozenFor the Dressing1 cup Mayonnaise Greek yogurt can be used as a lighter alternative1/2 cup Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt Greek yogurt is healthier1/2 cup Crumbled Cotija Cheese Feta can be used for milder flavor1 teaspoon Chili Powder Adjust to heat preference1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika Regular paprika is a suitable substitute2 cloves Minced Garlic Fresh garlic recommended1 juice Juice of Lime Lemon juice can be a substituteto taste Salt and Black Pepper Essential for seasoningOptional Add-Ins1 medium Diced Jalapeños Optional for extra spice1 medium Diced Avocado For creaminess and healthy fats Equipment Mixing bowlSkilletWhisk Method Step‑by‑Step InstructionsIn a large mixing bowl, add the shredded cabbage, shredded carrots, chopped fresh cilantro, and chopped red onion. Toss until well-mixed.Preheat a skillet over medium-high heat for 2 minutes, then add your corn kernels. Sauté for 5 to 7 minutes until lightly charred.In a separate bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream or Greek yogurt, cotija cheese, chili powder, smoked paprika, minced garlic, lime juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk until smooth.Add the charred corn to the dressing, ensuring it's well-coated. Stir gently.Pour the corn mixture over the shredded cabbage and other base ingredients and gently toss to coat.Taste and adjust seasoning with more lime juice, salt, or pepper.Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. Nutrition Serving: 1cupCalories: 180kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 3gFat: 9gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 10mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 250mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 1500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 1mg NotesFresh ingredients elevate the flavor. Adjust seasoning to taste, and explore variations with spicy or creamy add-ins. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
