Irresistible Mexican Street Corn Coleslaw – A Flavorful Twist on a Classic

Irresistible Mexican Street Corn Coleslaw – A Flavorful Twist on a Classic

If you love Mexican street corn (Elote) and crave a refreshing crunch, this Mexican Street Corn Coleslaw is the perfect side dish! It’s packed with vibrant flavors from sweet corn, creamy cotija cheese, zesty lime juice, and smoky spices, making it a must-try for your next BBQ, taco night, or summer gathering.

Why You’ll Love This Mexican Coleslaw Recipe

• Bold & Flavorful – A perfect mix of creamy, tangy, and smoky flavors.
• Easy & Quick – Ready in just 15 minutes with no cooking required!
• Perfect Side Dish – Pairs beautifully with tacos, grilled chicken, or BBQ dishes.

Ingredients for the Best Mexican Street Corn Coleslaw

• 4 cups shredded green cabbage – Adds a crisp and fresh texture.
• 2 cups shredded purple cabbage – Enhances color and crunch.
• 1 ½ cups corn kernels – Use fresh, canned, or frozen corn for convenience.
• ½ cup mayonnaise – For a creamy and rich base.
• ¼ cup sour cream – Adds a tangy touch to the dressing.
• ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped – A must-have for that authentic Mexican flavor.
• ¼ cup cotija cheese, crumbled – The perfect salty, crumbly cheese for elote-style coleslaw.
• 1 jalapeño, finely diced (optional) – For a spicy kick.
• 1 teaspoon chili powder – Adds warmth and depth.
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika – Gives a subtle smoky taste.
• 1 clove garlic, minced – Enhances the savory profile.
• Juice of 1 lime – Adds brightness and freshness.
• Salt and pepper to taste – Adjust to your preference.

How to Make Mexican Street Corn Coleslaw

1. Prepare the veggies: In a large bowl, combine the shredded green and purple cabbage.
2. Add the mix-ins: Toss in the corn, cilantro, cotija cheese, and jalapeño (if using).
3. Make the dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Combine & mix: Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss until everything is evenly coated.
5. Chill & serve: Let the coleslaw rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
6. Garnish & enjoy: Serve chilled, topped with extra cotija cheese and a sprinkle of chili powder for an extra burst of flavor.

Perfect Pairings for This Mexican Slaw

This Mexican-inspired coleslaw is a great addition to:

• Grilled Chicken Tacos – Adds a fresh crunch to soft tortillas.
• Fish Tacos – A refreshing topping for crispy fish.
• Burgers & Hot Dogs – Elevate your cookout with a zesty twist.
• Grilled Shrimp or Steak – Complements smoky, juicy meats.

Recipe Notes & Variations

• Make it dairy-free – Swap cotija cheese for a dairy-free alternative or omit it.
• Try roasted corn – Char the corn for a smoky, grilled flavor.
• Add black beans – For extra protein and texture.
• Use Greek yogurt – A lighter alternative to sour cream.

Nutritional Information

• Calories: 180 kcal per serving
• Servings: 6

Final Thoughts

This Mexican Street Corn Coleslaw is a simple, flavorful, and refreshing side dish that’s sure to impress! Whether you’re serving it at a summer barbecue, taco Tuesday, or just alongside your favorite grilled meats, it’s the perfect blend of crunch, creaminess, and spice.

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