Summer is all about fresh flavors, outdoor gatherings, and vibrant dishes that bring people together. Picture this: a sun-drenched backyard barbecue, with laughter filling the air and the enticing smell of grilled meats wafting from the grill. What better side dish to accompany such a scene than Mexican Street Corn Coleslaw? This twist on the traditional coleslaw encapsulates the essence of Mexican street corn, or elote, delivering a delightful medley of flavors and textures. Inspired by the lively streets of Mexico, where corn on the cob is generously slathered in creamy sauces and topped with spices, this coleslaw offers a unique take that is sure to be a hit at any summer gathering. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish or a refreshing salad, its easy preparation and distinct, bold flavors make it a must-try!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are countless reasons to fall in love with this Mexican Street Corn Coleslaw. First and foremost, it combines the creaminess of traditional coleslaw with the vibrant flavors reminiscent of the streets of Mexico. The crunchy cabbage contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of corn, while the tangy lime juice and kick of chili powder create a tantalizing experience for your taste buds. Moreover, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous get-togethers. It’s even customizable, allowing you to tailor the ingredients to your preferences or dietary needs. Whether enjoyed at a summer BBQ, a picnic, or simply as a fresh side dish to your favorite meal, this coleslaw is bound to become a staple in your recipe repertoire!
Ingredients You’ll Need
To whip up this fantastic dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 4 cups of green cabbage, shredded: The base of your coleslaw, cabbage adds crunch and volume. Its mild flavor allows it to absorb the vibrant sauces and seasonings beautifully.
- 1 cup of corn, cooked (fresh or frozen): Sweet corn brings in a pop of sweetness and color. For an authentic flavor, feel free to grill the corn first!
- 1/2 cup of mayonnaise: This creamy element provides a rich texture and binds all the ingredients together. You can substitute it with Greek yogurt for a healthier option.
- 1/4 cup of sour cream: It adds a tangy flavor that enhances the richness of the mayo and helps create a luscious dressing.
- 1 tablespoon of lime juice: Fresh lime juice contributes acidity and brightness, cutting through the richness of the mayo and sour cream.
- 2 tablespoons of cotija cheese, crumbled: This cheese adds a salty and creamy component essential for that street corn flavor. You can use feta cheese as a substitute.
- 1 teaspoon of chili powder: This spice brings warmth and a mild kick, imbuing the coleslaw with a subtle heat reminiscent of traditional Mexican seasoning.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Basic yet essential, season these to your liking to enhance all the flavors in the dish.

Optional Additions
If you want to customize your coleslaw further, consider adding:
- Jalapeños: For those who enjoy heat, finely chopped jalapeños will add an extra kick.
- Red onion: Thinly sliced red onion adds a sharpness and beautiful color contrast.
- Bell peppers: Chopped bell peppers provide additional crunch and sweetness, making your coleslaw even more colorful.
Special Garnishes
Garnishing your coleslaw can be as fun as preparing it! Consider these options to enhance presentation and flavor:
- Fresh cilantro: Sprinkling fresh cilantro on top brings brightness and a burst of fresh flavor.
- Extra cotija cheese: A few more crumbles of cotija can make for a beautiful and delicious finishing touch.
- Sliced lime wedges: Serve alongside for guests to squeeze additional lime juice for an extra zesty kick.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Cabbage: In a large bowl, begin by shredding your green cabbage. Aim for thin strips to ensure easy mixing and eating.
- Add the Corn: If you’re using fresh corn, grill or cook it, let it cool, and then cut the kernels off the cob. If using frozen corn, cook according to package instructions and cool.
- Make the Dressing: In a separate bowl, mix the mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth.
- Combine Ingredients: Pour the dressing over the cabbage and corn mixture. Add the crumbled cotija cheese and mix until everything is fully coated.
- Taste and Adjust: Taste your coleslaw and adjust the seasoning as necessary. Add more lime juice or spices if you prefer a stronger flavor.
- Chill: For best results, let the coleslaw chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Serving and Storage Tips
When it’s time to serve, scoop generous portions onto plates or into bowls. This coleslaw pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, tacos, or as a refreshing standalone salad. You can also serve it in small taco cups for fun appetizers!
For storage, keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best consumed within three days, as the cabbage may wilt over time. Due to its creaminess, freezing is not recommended, as it can alter the texture.
Helpful Tips
- Choose Fresh Ingredients: Fresh cabbage and corn yield the best flavors and textures.
- Customize to Taste: Don’t hesitate to adjust the amount of lime juice or chili powder based on your personal preference.
- Let it Chill: Allowing the coleslaw to chill not only mingles the flavors but serves it at a refreshing temperature.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this coleslaw ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the coleslaw a day in advance. Just make sure to keep it in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Just before serving, give it a quick stir to redistribute the dressing.
Can I use different types of cabbage?
While green cabbage is traditional, feel free to mix in red cabbage for added color and nutrients, or even napa cabbage for a slightly different texture and flavor.
What if I can’t find cotija cheese?
If cotija cheese is difficult to find, crumbled feta cheese is a great substitute. It’s not quite the same, but it still offers a salty and creamy touch.
Conclusion
Mexican Street Corn Coleslaw is more than just a side dish; it’s a bright burst of flavor that transforms any meal into a festive occasion. With its creamy texture, zesty lime, and hints of spice, this recipe captures the heart of Mexican street food in a delightful and easy-to-make coleslaw. So gather your ingredients, bring your friends and family together, and let this dish transport you to sun-soaked streets filled with culinary delights. Don’t forget to share your experiences or any creative twists you’ve given this recipe in the comments below! Let’s celebrate good food and the memories it creates together!
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Zesty Mexican Street Corn Coleslaw Recipe Tasty Refreshing
Discover a zesty Mexican street corn coleslaw recipe thats both tasty refreshing Perfect for summer BBQs or a flavorful side dish Enjoy
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- minutes: 30
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Calories: 180 calories
- Sugar: 2 grams
- Fat: 15 grams
- Saturated Fat: 15 grams
- Carbohydrates: 12 grams
- Fiber: 3 grams
- Protein: 4 grams
Keywords: Mexican Street Corn Coleslaw, elote slaw, summer salad, coleslaw recipe



