This Creamy Mexican Street Corn Coleslaw is a vibrant mix of crunchy cabbage, sweet corn, and zesty lime. It’s a great twist on the classic coleslaw that will brighten up any meal!
Seriously, who knew coleslaw could be this fun? I love adding a sprinkle of cheese and chili for that little kick. Perfect for summer barbecues or taco nights! 🌽
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Green and Purple Cabbage: These cabbages bring crunch and color to the coleslaw. If you don’t have access to purple cabbage, you can use extra green cabbage or even napa cabbage for a different texture.
Corn: Fresh corn is fantastic, but frozen corn works just as well. It’s convenient and still sweet! For a fun twist, use roasted corn if you want that smoky flavor.
Jalapeño: It adds a nice kick! If you prefer milder flavors, skip the jalapeño or use a mild pepper like bell pepper. Remember, you can always add a pinch of cayenne instead for heat.
Cotija Cheese: This crumbly cheese is a key player! If you can’t find it, feta or even crumbled queso fresco will work nicely. Just keep in mind the flavor will differ slightly.
How Do I Get the Perfect Creamy Dressing?
The creaminess of the coleslaw comes from the combination of mayonnaise and sour cream. Here’s how to nail that dressing:
- Start by whisking the mayo and sour cream together until smooth. This will be the base of your dressing.
- Add lime juice, garlic powder, and chili powder for extra flavor. Don’t skip the lime – it balances out the richness!
- Season with salt and pepper carefully, as you can always adjust later. Mix until combined!
Make sure to taste the dressing before adding it to the cabbage. This gives you a chance to adjust the flavors to your liking!
Creamy Mexican Street Corn Coleslaw
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Veggies:
- 4 cups shredded green cabbage
- 1 cup shredded purple cabbage
- 1 ½ cup corn kernels (fresh or thawed from frozen)
- 1 jalapeño, thinly sliced (seeds removed for less heat)
Dressing:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 lime, juiced
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon chili powder, plus extra for garnish
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Extras:
- 1 cup crumbled cotija cheese (or feta as substitute)
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious coleslaw takes about 15-20 minutes to prepare! With all the chopping and mixing involved, it’s a quick dish that can easily add a pop of flavor to your meals.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Cabbage:
In a large mixing bowl, add the shredded green and purple cabbage. Give them a gentle toss to mix the colors together.
2. Add Corn and Jalapeño:
Next, sprinkle the corn kernels over the cabbage mixture, and add the sliced jalapeño. This is where the fun begins—mix it all up!
3. Whisk the Dressing:
In a separate smaller bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, garlic powder, chili powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until it’s smooth and creamy—this will be the star of the coleslaw!
4. Combine Dressing with Veggies:
Pour the creamy dressing over the cabbage mixture. Toss everything together gently, making sure all the veggies are well-coated with that delicious dressing.
5. Add Cheese and Cilantro:
Now it’s time to sprinkle in the crumbled cotija cheese and chopped cilantro. Gently fold these in so they’re evenly distributed without breaking apart the cheese too much.
6. Taste and Adjust:
Before serving, take a moment to taste your coleslaw. If it needs a little more zest, feel free to add more salt, pepper, or lime juice according to your preference.
7. Serve and Garnish:
Transfer your beautiful coleslaw to a serving bowl. For a finishing touch, sprinkle extra chili powder and cotija cheese on top for garnish!
8. Enjoy!
This coleslaw is great served immediately, but feel free to refrigerate for 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together even more. Enjoy it as a side dish or as a refreshing topping for tacos and grilled meats!
Can I Use Other Types of Cabbage?
Absolutely! While green and purple cabbage are recommended for their crunch and color, you can also use napa cabbage or even bok choy for a twist on texture. Just make sure to shred it finely!
What Can I Substitute for Cotija Cheese?
If you can’t find cotija cheese, feta cheese is a great alternative as it has a similar crumbly texture and tang. You could also use queso fresco, but keep in mind it’s milder in flavor. Adjust the seasoning accordingly!
Can I Make This Coleslaw in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the coleslaw a few hours ahead of serving. Just mix the cabbage and other ingredients, but wait to add the dressing, cheese, and cilantro until just before serving to keep everything fresh and crunchy.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before serving again, as the dressing may thicken slightly over time.
