Name: Zesty Mexican Street Corn Coleslaw A MustTry Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 6 servings
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 4 cups of shredded green cabbage; 1 cup of corn (fresh or frozen); 1/2 cup of finely chopped red onion; 1/2 cup of shredded carrots; 1/4 cup of fresh cilantro; 1/2 cup of mayonnaise; 2 tablespoons of lime juice; 1/2 teaspoon of chili powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Optional: Diced jalapeños; Optional: Crumbled cotija cheese; Optional: Diced avocado

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As the sun shines on a warm summer day, there’s nothing quite like gathering around a grill with friends and family, sharing mouthwatering dishes filled with vibrant flavors. One recipe that brings the essence of summer straight to your table is Mexican Street Corn Coleslaw. This unique side dish combines the classic flavors of elote, or Mexican street corn, with a crunchy and refreshing slaw, creating a perfect companion for barbecues, picnic gatherings, or festive holiday celebrations. It’s easy to prepare, delicious, and guaranteed to impress your guests.

The inspiration behind this recipe stems from the rich culinary influence of Mexico, where street vendors serve up elote drizzled with creamy sauces, queso, and spices. This coleslaw captures that same spirit, offering a delightful crunch and a burst of bold flavors. Not only is this recipe simple to whip up, but it’s also a fantastic way to incorporate fresh ingredients into your meals while catering to various dietary preferences.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are countless reasons to love Mexican Street Corn Coleslaw. First, the combination of ingredients creates a symphony of flavors. The sweetness of the corn, the creaminess of the dressing, and the tanginess of lime collide in each bite, reminiscent of a summer fiesta. This dish stands out not only for its taste but also for its vibrant texture. Crunchy cabbage, juicy corn, and fresh cilantro meld together to create an irresistible medley that enhances any meal.

Moreover, this coleslaw is versatile. It can be served as a side dish with grilled meats, added to tacos, or even enjoyed on its own as a refreshing salad. Additionally, the recipe allows for easy customization—making it perfect for various diets. Whether you’re a vegetarian, gluten-free eater, or just looking for a flavorful dish that caters to all, Mexican Street Corn Coleslaw checks all the boxes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create a delicious Mexican Street Corn Coleslaw, you will need the following ingredients:

Main Ingredients

4 cups of shredded green cabbage: Provides a crunchy base and acts as the main component of the coleslaw. It’s fresh and mild, allowing the other flavors to shine.
1 cup of corn (fresh or frozen): Adds sweetness and texture to the slaw, bringing the essence of elote into every bite.
1/2 cup of finely chopped red onion: Offers a sharp, slightly sweet flavor that complements the other ingredients beautifully.
1/2 cup of shredded carrots: Introduces a subtle sweetness and a pop of color, enhancing the visual appeal of the dish.
1/4 cup of fresh cilantro: Imparts a fresh, herbaceous note that ties all the flavors together and adds vibrancy.
1/2 cup of mayonnaise: Provides creaminess and serves as the base for the dressing, ensuring the ingredients meld together perfectly.
2 tablespoons of lime juice: Brings a refreshing tang that balances the richness of the mayonnaise and brightens the overall flavor.
1/2 teaspoon of chili powder: Adds a hint of spice, reminiscent of Mexican flavors, elevating the taste of the coleslaw.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for enhancing flavors and rounding out the dish.

Optional Additions

Diced jalapeños: For those who like a little heat, jalapeños bring in the spice that complements the sweetness of the corn.
Cotija cheese: Crumbled cotija adds a salty, creamy element that echoes the flavors of traditional street corn.
Avocado: Diced avocado can be added for creaminess and a rich texture to the coleslaw.

Special Garnishes

Extra cilantro: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro on top brightens the dish and adds a burst of color.
Lime wedges: Serve with lime wedges for a zesty kick at the table, allowing everyone to customize their servings.
Chili powder or paprika: A dash on top before serving offers an appealing look and adds more flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making Mexican Street Corn Coleslaw is simple! Follow these steps to create your delicious dish:

Prepare the vegetables: Start by shredding the cabbage finely and adding it to a large mixing bowl. Toss in the chopped red onion, shredded carrots, and corn.
Make the dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, lime juice, chili powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Combine: Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture. Toss everything together until the vegetables are coated evenly with the dressing.
Add the cilantro: Finally, add the chopped cilantro for freshness and mix it again gently.
Chill: If possible, let the coleslaw sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Serve chilled for the best taste, and enjoy the contrasting textures and flavors!

Serving and Storage Tips

Mexican Street Corn Coleslaw is not only delightful to eat but also very easy to serve. Here are some tips for serving and storing:

Serving Suggestions

Serve it as a side dish with grilled chicken, steak, or fish for a balanced meal.
Add it to tacos as a fresh topping for added crunch and flavor.
Pair with other Mexican favorites like quesadillas or burritos for a themed dinner night.

Storage Tips

This coleslaw is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To keep it fresh longer, consider storing the dressing separately and combining it just before serving.

Helpful Tips

To help you nail this recipe on your first try, here are some useful tips:

Use fresh corn when in season for the sweetest flavor, or frozen corn can be used as a convenient alternative.
Customize the spice level by adjusting the amount of chili powder or adding diced jalapeños, depending on your preference.
For added depth of flavor, consider grilling the corn before adding it to the slaw.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use a different type of cabbage?

Absolutely! While green cabbage is the classic choice, red cabbage can also be used for a beautiful color contrast and a slightly different flavor profile.

Is this coleslaw suitable for meal prep?

Yes, this coleslaw is a great option for meal prep. Prepare it ahead of time, but remember to add the dressing right before serving for the freshest taste.

How can I make this recipe vegan?

To make this coleslaw vegan, simply replace the mayonnaise with a plant-based alternative and adjust the other ingredients as necessary.

What dishes pair well with Mexican Street Corn Coleslaw?

This coleslaw pairs beautifully with grilled meats, tacos, and even as a topping for burrito bowls. It brings a refreshing crunch that harmonizes well with heartier dishes.

Conclusion

Mexican Street Corn Coleslaw is not just a recipe; it’s an experience that brings friends and family together around the table, celebrating the flavors of summer and the joy of good food. With its unique combination of ingredients and adaptability, this dish can easily become a staple in your household. So why not give it a try? Share your experiences and any personal twists you added to the recipe in the comments below. Let’s create wonderful memories together, one delightful plate at a time!