Name: Zesty Mexican Street Corn Coleslaw That Will Brighten Your Table
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 7 min
Total time: 37 min
Ingredients: 4 cups shredded cabbage (green or purple); 1 cup shredded carrots; ½ cup fresh cilantro (chopped); ¼ cup red onion (finely chopped); 2 cups corn kernels (grilled for extra smokiness); ½ cup mayonnaise; ½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt; ½ cup crumbled cotija cheese (feta works well as substitute); 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 2 cloves minced garlic (fresh preferred); 1 juice of lime; salt and black pepper (to taste); additional cotija (for flavor and presentation); chopped cilantro; lime wedges (for serving)

As I strolled through the lively streets of Mexico, the enticing scent of roasted corn wafted through the air, reminding me of summer gatherings filled with laughter and delicious food. This inspired my creation of Mexican Street Corn Coleslaw, a perfect blend of fresh, zesty flavors that brings a delightful crunch to any meal. With tender cabbage and sweet corn harmonizing in a creamy dressing, this budget-friendly side dish is a game-changer for barbecues, picnics, or simply elevating your weeknight dinners. Not only is it easy to whip up in just a few minutes, but it also offers a refreshing twist that your loved ones will adore. Ready to add some vibrant flair to your next meal? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why is this coleslaw a must-try?

Vibrant Flavors: Each bite bursts with zesty lime, smoky paprika, and a hint of spice from chili powder, all perfectly complementing the sweet corn.

Quick to Prepare: With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up this coleslaw in under 30 minutes, making it a fantastic last-minute side.

Versatile Pairing: Perfectly complements grilled meats, like chicken or fish, but also stands alone as a refreshing dish at any gathering.

Budget-Friendly: Using simple, affordable ingredients, this recipe ensures you can enjoy delicious homemade flavors without breaking the bank.

Crispy Texture: The mix of tender cabbage, charred corn, and creamy dressing makes for a crunchy delight that adds interest to every plate.

For an even more vibrant experience, consider trying this coleslaw alongside our Mexican Street Corn or a unique twist with our Sprouts Kale Corn dish!

Mexican Street Corn Coleslaw Ingredients

• For a refreshing twist that your loved ones will adore, gather the following ingredients to create your Mexican Street Corn Coleslaw:

For the Slaw

Shredded Cabbage – Serves as the crunchy base, with green or purple adding color.
Shredded Carrots – Brings sweetness and a pop of color.
Fresh Cilantro – Adds a fresh, herbaceous flavor, enhancing the dish’s zest.
Red Onion – Offers mild sharpness; use sparingly to avoid overpowering the mix.
Corn Kernels – The highlight for that street corn flavor; grill them for extra smokiness.

For the Dressing

Mayonnaise – Creates a creamy base for the dressing.
Sour Cream/Greek Yogurt – Adds tanginess; Greek yogurt makes for a lighter option.
Crumbled Cotija Cheese – Provides a salty, creamy element; feta works well as a substitute.
Chili Powder – Introduces warmth and spice to elevate the overall flavor.
Smoked Paprika – Adds depth and a hint of smokiness to the dressing.
Minced Garlic – Infuses authentic flavor; fresh is always best.
Lime Juice – Brightens the dish with a refreshing acidity.
Salt and Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust to your taste.

Optional Garnish

Additional Cotija – Sprinkle extra for flavor and presentation.
Chopped Cilantro – Adds another layer of freshness.
Lime Wedges – Serve on the side for an extra zesty kick.

With these ingredients, you’ll be set to whip up a Mexican Street Corn Coleslaw that will make a delightful addition to any table.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Mexican Street Corn Coleslaw

Step 1: Prepare the Veggies
In a large mixing bowl, combine 4 cups of shredded cabbage, 1 cup of shredded carrots, ½ cup of chopped fresh cilantro, and ¼ cup of finely chopped red onion. Toss these vibrant ingredients together until well blended, creating a colorful base for your Mexican Street Corn Coleslaw. Set the bowl aside while you prepare the corn for a fresh crunch.

Step 2: Char the Corn
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat until hot, then add 2 cups of corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen). Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the corn is lightly charred and begins to caramelize, releasing its sweet, smoky aroma. This step is crucial as it brings out the beloved street corn flavors that elevate your coleslaw.

Step 3: Make the Dressing
In a separate small bowl, whisk together ½ cup of mayonnaise, ½ cup of sour cream (or Greek yogurt), ½ cup of crumbled cotija cheese, 1 teaspoon of chili powder, 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika, 2 minced garlic cloves, the juice of 1 lime, and salt and pepper to taste. Mix until creamy and smooth, ensuring there’s a wonderful blend of zesty and rich flavors ready to coat the coleslaw.

Step 4: Combine the Dressings and Corn
Once the corn has cooled slightly, stir it into the dressing mixture until all the kernels are well-coated. This smoky corn adds a delightful touch to the creamy dressing, intensifying the overall flavor profile of your Mexican Street Corn Coleslaw, making it both mouthwatering and vibrant.

Step 5: Combine with Cabbage Mixture
Pour the corn and dressing mixture over the cabbage and vegetables from Step 1. Gently toss everything together until each piece of cabbage and carrot is coated in the creamy dressing, creating an appetizing, cohesive coleslaw. The colorful veggies mixed with the smoky corn will definitely catch your eye!

Step 6: Adjust Seasoning and Serve
Taste your Mexican Street Corn Coleslaw and adjust the seasoning as needed, adding more lime juice, salt, or pepper to suit your preference. Once balanced, let the coleslaw chill in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully before serving alongside your favorite grilled dishes or as a refreshing stand-alone side.

Expert Tips for Mexican Street Corn Coleslaw

Don’t Skip the Charring: Ensure the corn is nicely charred; it deepens flavors significantly. Missing this step can lead to a bland taste.
Adjust for Creaminess: If you prefer a lighter version, swap mayonnaise for Greek yogurt. It reduces calories while keeping the creaminess intact!
Taste Test is Key: After mixing, taste your coleslaw. Adjust the lime juice, salt, or pepper to enhance the overall balance of your Mexican Street Corn Coleslaw.
Store Properly: To keep your coleslaw crisp for days, store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It’s best enjoyed within 2-3 days.
Mix it Up: Try adding diced bell peppers or jalapeños for a personalized kick or sweetness that can elevate the flavor even further!

Mexican Street Corn Coleslaw Variations

Feel free to explore these delightful twists and make this recipe truly yours!

Napa or Savoy Cabbage: Substitute green cabbage for a different texture that remains tender and flavorful.
Diced Bell Peppers: Add crunch and sweetness with diced bell peppers to create a colorful medley.
Spicy Kick: Incorporate chopped jalapeños or other hot peppers for a fiery twist that will awaken your taste buds.
Honey Sweetness: Mix in a teaspoon of honey for an unexpected sweet note that balances the tanginess beautifully.
Vegan Version: Swap the mayonnaise and yogurt for cashew cream or a dairy-free mayo to keep it creamy without the dairy.
Additional Grains: Throw in cooked quinoa or black beans for an extra boost of protein and texture, making it more filling.
Herbal Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like mint or parsley for a refreshing flavor contrast that brightens the dish.
Fruit Addition: Toss in diced mango or pineapple for a sweet and tropical flair, enhancing the coleslaw’s freshness.

Whether you’re drumming up excitement for your next barbecue or simply opting for a light weeknight meal, these variations will surely elevate your Mexican Street Corn Coleslaw! For even more fun, consider pairing it with our Mexican Street Corn or adding a twist to your greens with our Sprouts Kale Corn dish. Enjoy experimenting!

What to Serve with Mexican Street Corn Coleslaw

This vibrant coleslaw adds a refreshing crunch and zesty flair to your dining experience, perfect for pairing with an array of delicious dishes.

Grilled Chicken: Juicy, smoky chicken complements the creamy tang of the coleslaw, enhancing the overall flavor explosion.
Steak Tacos: The bold flavors of steak tacos combined with the crunchy coleslaw create a satisfying marriage of textures and tastes.
Fish Tacos: Light and flaky fish paired with this coleslaw offers a fresh contrast, making every bite enjoyable.
Black Bean Salad: The earthy notes of black beans combined with zesty flavors in the coleslaw elevate each dish to new heights.
Cornbread: Sweet cornbread is a wonderful balance to the tangy flavors of the coleslaw—perfect for a cozy meal.
Chilled White Wine: A crisp, chilled Chardonnay complements the zesty lime in the coleslaw while refreshing the palate.
Margaritas: A classic pairing for any Mexican-inspired meal, the tang of a margarita enhances the flavors beautifully.
Chocolate Flan: For dessert, this creamy, rich flan adds a sweet contrast to the spiciness of the coleslaw, making it a delightful end to a flavorful meal.

Storage Tips for Mexican Street Corn Coleslaw

Fridge: Keep your coleslaw refrigerated in an airtight container for freshness; it’s best enjoyed within 2-3 days for maximum crunch.

Freezer: While fresh coleslaw is ideal, if needed, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. However, the texture may soften upon thawing, so consume fresh when possible.

Reheating: If you’ve added it to a hot dish, allow it to come to room temperature for better flavor. Avoid reheating in the microwave, as it may lose its crispness.

Storage Note: To maintain its delightful crunch, always store the dressing separately and combine just before serving, creating the perfect bite of Mexican Street Corn Coleslaw!

Make Ahead Options

These Mexican Street Corn Coleslaw components are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the shredded cabbage, carrots, cilantro, and red onion up to 3 days in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator, helping maintain their crispness. The charred corn can be cooked and refrigerated for up to 24 hours as well, ensuring that it retains its smoky flavor. When you’re ready to enjoy this vibrant coleslaw, simply mix the prepared veggies with the cooled corn and dressing, which you can also whisk together ahead of time and refrigerate. This way, you’re ready to serve a fresh and zesty side without the last-minute fuss!

Mexican Street Corn Coleslaw Recipe FAQs

What type of corn should I use for the coleslaw?
Absolutely! You can use fresh, canned, or frozen corn kernels. I often recommend grilling fresh corn for 5-7 minutes until they’re positively charred, as this step enhances the flavor and brings that beloved street corn taste to your dish.

How should I store my Mexican Street Corn Coleslaw?
Keep your coleslaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best enjoyed within 2-3 days to ensure the ingredients remain crisp. If properly stored, the coleslaw will keep its freshness and crunch, making every bite delightful.

Can I freeze Mexican Street Corn Coleslaw?
While fresh coleslaw is ideal for taste and texture, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. To do this, pack the coleslaw in an airtight container or freezer bags, removing excess air. However, keep in mind that the texture may soften upon thawing, so it’s best to enjoy it fresh whenever possible.

What if my coleslaw tastes too bland?
If you find your Mexican Street Corn Coleslaw lacking flavor, don’t worry! Start by tasting it and adding more lime juice for brightness, salt, or pepper until it’s to your liking. Sometimes, adding an extra pinch of chili powder can significantly enhance the overall flavor profile!

Is this recipe suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
Sure! For a lighter option, substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt. If you have lactose sensitivities, use dairy-free alternatives for the cotija cheese. Always check the ingredient labels if you’re serving anyone with allergies, and feel free to customize the recipe by adding or leaving out ingredients according to dietary needs.

Can I add other ingredients to the coleslaw for a twist?
Very much! Feel free to experiment. You can add diced bell peppers for additional crunch, or jalapeños for a spicy kick. Honey can be incorporated for added sweetness if desired, making this Mexican Street Corn Coleslaw a versatile dish that caters to various tastes!