Mexican Coleslaw is the ultimate side dish when you’re craving something fresh and flavorful. With crunchy coleslaw mix, vibrant red peppers, black beans, and charred corn, it’s packed with texture and color. The creamy dressing, made with mayo, sour cream, taco seasoning, and lime juice, adds a zesty, tangy kick that brings everything together. This coleslaw pairs perfectly with tacos, grilled meats, or burgers, making it an ideal addition to your next BBQ or family dinner. Plus, it’s easy to make in just 10 minutes and can be prepped ahead of time. Serve it chilled for maximum flavor!
This Mexican Coleslaw is the perfect side dish for any meal, offering a fresh and zesty twist on classic coleslaw. With a mix of crisp vegetables, black beans, grilled corn, and a creamy lime dressing, this coleslaw adds a vibrant flavor and texture to your table. Whether you’re serving it alongside tacos, grilled meats, or burgers, it’s sure to be a hit with family and friends. The best part? It’s quick and easy to make, with just 10 minutes of prep time.
INGREDIENTS
- 14-ounce bag coleslaw mix: A blend of shredded cabbage and carrots, providing a crunchy base for the coleslaw.
- 1/2 cup red pepper, diced: Adds a pop of color and a slight sweetness to the dish.
- 1/2 cup black beans, drained and rinsed: A hearty, protein-packed addition that complements the other ingredients.
- 1/2 cup corn (grilled or skillet-charred): Brings a smoky, slightly sweet flavor to the coleslaw. Grilling the corn adds extra depth.
- 1/2 cup chopped cilantro: Adds a fresh, herbaceous flavor that brightens up the dish.
- 1 jalapeño, minced: Adds a bit of heat to the coleslaw. Adjust the amount based on your spice preference.
- 3/4 cup mayo: Provides the creamy base for the dressing.
- 1/4 cup sour cream: Adds tanginess and smooth texture to the dressing.
- 1 1/2 tablespoons taco seasoning: Gives the dressing a bold, savory flavor with a hint of spice.
- 2 tablespoons lime juice: Adds a bright, citrusy tang that balances the richness of the mayo and sour cream.
WHY YOU'LL LOVE THIS MEXICAN COLESLAW
- Fresh and Zesty: This coleslaw is full of fresh ingredients like cilantro, red peppers, and lime juice, giving it a vibrant and tangy flavor that’s perfect for any meal.
- Crunchy Texture: The combination of coleslaw mix, grilled corn, and black beans creates a deliciously crunchy texture that adds depth to every bite.
- Quick and Easy: With only 10 minutes of prep time, this dish is a breeze to throw together for a last-minute side or addition to your meal.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you're serving it with tacos, burgers, or grilled meats, this coleslaw pairs well with everything and is always a crowd-pleaser.
- Customizable: You can easily adjust the spice level or swap ingredients to fit your taste, making it a versatile dish for any occasion.
VARIATIONS
- Spicy Kick: Add extra jalapeño or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to give the coleslaw more heat.
- Dairy-Free Option: Replace the sour cream with an equal amount of dairy-free yogurt or leave it out altogether for a lighter version.
- Avocado Twist: For extra creaminess, add diced avocado to the coleslaw just before serving.
- Fruit Add-ins: For a sweet touch, try mixing in some diced mango or pineapple.
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the coleslaw mix, diced red pepper, black beans, grilled corn, chopped cilantro, and minced jalapeño. Stir to distribute the ingredients evenly.
- Step 2:
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayo, sour cream, taco seasoning, and lime juice until smooth and well-combined.
- Step 3:
- Pour the mayo mixture over the coleslaw mixture, and stir thoroughly until all the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
- Step 4:
- Serve the Mexican Coleslaw immediately, or cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serve this Mexican Coleslaw chilled as a refreshing side dish alongside tacos, grilled meats, or burgers. It also works great as a topping for sandwiches or tacos, adding extra crunch and flavor.
- If you're preparing for a party or meal prep, make the coleslaw a few hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator to let the flavors meld together.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Stir before serving to refresh the flavors.
Helpful Notes
- This recipe is very versatile! You can substitute Greek yogurt for the sour cream to make it a little lighter.
- For extra flavor, char the corn in a skillet or grill it for a smoky addition that enhances the taste of the coleslaw.
- If you prefer more spice, add extra jalapeño or even a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dressing for an extra kick.
Tips from well-known chefs
- Chef Rick Bayless: “Use fresh lime juice for the dressing—it brightens up the flavors and balances the richness of the mayo and sour cream.”
- Chef Bobby Flay: “Grill the corn for added depth in flavor. It brings a nice smokiness to the dish that complements the freshness of the other ingredients.”
- Chef Pati Jinich: “For an extra vibrant twist, add some fresh mango or pineapple chunks to your coleslaw to give it a tropical spin.”