Mexican Coleslaw

Name: Mexican Coleslaw
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
Ingredients: 1 bag (14 oz) coleslaw mix; 1 cup frozen corn, thawed; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped; 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1/2 teaspoon chili powder; Salt and pepper to taste

Isabella

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If you’re looking for a flavorful, refreshing side dish that pairs well with tacos, BBQs, or any summer gathering, this Mexican Coleslaw is the perfect choice. With its crunchy cabbage, sweet corn, fresh cilantro, and a tangy lime dressing, it offers a delicious balance of textures and flavors. This easy-to-make slaw brings a zesty twist to traditional coleslaw, making it an irresistible companion for your favorite meals.

Ingredients:

1 bag (14 oz) coleslaw mix

1 cup frozen corn, thawed

1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped

1 jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped

1/2 cup mayonnaise

2 tablespoons fresh lime juice

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1/2 teaspoon chili powder

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Prepare the Vegetables:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the coleslaw mix, thawed corn, chopped cilantro, finely chopped red onion, and jalapeño. These ingredients bring together a fresh, vibrant base for your coleslaw.

Make the Dressing:

In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, fresh lime juice, ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. This creamy and tangy dressing elevates the flavors, giving the coleslaw its signature zesty kick.

Combine:

Pour the dressing over the vegetable mixture and toss until everything is evenly coated. The dressing should enhance, not overpower, the fresh vegetables.

Chill and Serve:

Cover the coleslaw and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This step ensures the dressing soaks into the cabbage for optimal flavor. Serve the coleslaw chilled for the best taste and texture.

Serving Tips:

Chill Before Serving: For the best flavor, make sure to refrigerate the coleslaw for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and enhances the crispness of the vegetables.

Garnish with Extra Cilantro: Before serving, add a sprinkle of freshly chopped cilantro or a slice of lime for an extra burst of freshness and color.

Serve as a Taco Topping: Add a spoonful of this coleslaw to fish, chicken, or pork tacos for added crunch and flavor.

Pair with Grilled Meats: This coleslaw is a great side dish for BBQ meats like chicken, steak, or ribs. Its refreshing tanginess complements the smoky flavors perfectly.

Customize for More Heat: If you love spicy food, offer extra sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce on the side to let guests adjust the heat level.

Storage Tips:

Refrigeration: Store leftover Mexican coleslaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days.

Avoid Freezing: Coleslaw with a mayonnaise-based dressing doesn’t freeze well, as the texture of the cabbage can become mushy, and the dressing may separate upon thawing.

Stir Before Serving: If storing the coleslaw for more than a few hours, give it a good stir before serving. This helps redistribute the dressing and keeps the texture consistent.

Make Ahead Option: You can prepare the coleslaw up to a day in advance. For best results, keep the dressing and the vegetable mix separate until about 30 minutes before serving, then toss them together. This keeps the vegetables extra crisp.

Related Recipes:

Mexican Casserole

FAQs:

Can I make Mexican coleslaw ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the vegetable mix and the dressing separately up to a day in advance. For the freshest texture, combine the two about 30 minutes before serving and refrigerate. This ensures the coleslaw remains crisp.

Can I make this coleslaw spicier?

Absolutely! If you prefer more heat, you can leave the seeds in the jalapeño or add extra chili powder. You can also drizzle some hot sauce or add another spicy pepper like serrano for an extra kick.

How long will Mexican coleslaw last in the fridge?

Stored in an airtight container, this coleslaw will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before serving to redistribute the dressing.

Can I use fresh corn instead of frozen?

Yes, fresh corn works great in this recipe. Simply cook the fresh corn kernels first (boil, grill, or sauté), then let them cool before adding them to the coleslaw for a sweet, fresh flavor boost.

Conclusion:

This Mexican Coleslaw is a vibrant and easy-to-make side dish that adds color, crunch, and flavor to any meal. With fresh vegetables and a tangy lime dressing, it’s a refreshing way to enjoy a taste of Mexico at home. Whether you’re hosting a summer party or simply looking for a quick side for taco night, this coleslaw is sure to impress.