If you’re looking to spice up your summer barbecues, family dinners, or potlucks, this Mexican Street Corn Coleslaw Recipe is just what you need! A vibrant twist on traditional coleslaw, this dish brings all the lively flavors of Mexican Street Corn, also known as ‘Elote,’ into a refreshing and crunchy coleslaw. It’s a delightful side dish that perfectly complements a variety of meals, from grilled meats to tacos. With its combination of fresh vegetables, zesty lime, and creamy dressing, it’s sure to become a favorite.

This unique coleslaw is inspired by the street vendors of Mexico City who expertly prepare and season corn on the cob with a variety of toppings. Our rendition takes those beloved flavors and transforms them into a colorful, easy-to-make slaw that is both nutritious and satisfying. Imagine biting into a crisp piece of cabbage, complemented by the sweetness of corn, the tang of lime, and the savory bite of crumbled cheese — it’s an explosion of taste in every mouthful!

Why You’ll Love This Mexican Street Corn Coleslaw

Flavorful: The combination of charred corn, creamy dressing, and spices delivers a robust flavor that’s hard to resist.
Colorful Presentation: Bright and vibrant colors make this coleslaw as visually appealing as it is tasty.
Versatile Side Dish: Perfect for barbecues, picnics, or Taco Tuesdays, it pairs well with a variety of main dishes.
Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with fresh veggies, this slaw not only tastes good but is also good for you!

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To create the perfect Mexican Street Corn Coleslaw, start by preparing your kitchen and gathering all the necessary tools and ingredients. You will need a large mixing bowl for the coleslaw, a skillet for cooking the corn, and a small bowl for mixing the dressing. A sharp kitchen knife will be essential for chopping the veggies, and if you’re using fresh corn, a corn stripper can make the process quicker.

Ensure your work area is clean and organized to streamline the cooking process. If you’re using fresh corn on the cob, you will need to shuck the corn and cut the kernels off the cob before cooking. For an extra touch, consider using a grill instead of a skillet to char the corn for enhanced flavor.

Ingredients

4 cups shredded cabbage (green or purple)
1 cup shredded carrots
1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
1/4 cup chopped red onion
2 cups corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)
2 tablespoons mayonnaise
2 tablespoons sour cream or Greek yogurt
1/4 cup crumbled cotija cheese (or feta cheese)
1 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 clove garlic, minced
Juice of 1 lime
Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional Garnish: Additional crumbled cotija cheese, chopped fresh cilantro, lime wedges

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Coleslaw Base

Start by taking a large mixing bowl and adding 4 cups of shredded cabbage and 1 cup of shredded carrots. You can use either green or purple cabbage for a fun color twist! Then, toss in 1/2 cup of chopped fresh cilantro and 1/4 cup of chopped red onion. Gently toss all the ingredients together until everything is well combined. Set this mixture aside as it will be the base for your zesty coleslaw.

Step 2: Char the Corn

In a skillet over medium-high heat, add 2 cups of corn kernels (this can be fresh, canned, or frozen). Stir the corn occasionally while cooking it for about 5-7 minutes or until the kernels are lightly charred. This step is crucial, as charring the corn will enhance its flavor, adding a subtle smokiness that complements the other ingredients beautifully.

Step 3: Mix the Dressing

While the corn is cooking, grab a small bowl and combine 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise and 2 tablespoons of sour cream or Greek yogurt. Then add 1/4 cup of crumbled cotija cheese, 1 teaspoon of chili powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika. Include 1 clove of minced garlic, the juice of 1 lime, and a pinch of salt and black pepper to taste. Mix everything thoroughly until you have a creamy dressing that’s bursting with flavor!

Step 4: Combine Everything

Once the corn is charred to perfection, add it into the bowl with the dressing. Stir well until the corn is evenly coated. Next, pour this corn topping over the coleslaw mixture in your large bowl. Toss everything together until the dressing coats all the cabbage and carrot pieces evenly. Taste your dish and adjust the seasoning by adding more salt, pepper, or lime juice if necessary for extra oomph!

Variations

Protein: Add shredded chicken or black beans for a more substantial dish.
Vegetables: Mix in diced bell peppers or jalapeños for an extra kick.
Spices: Experiment with cayenne pepper or taco seasoning to customize the heat level.

Cooking Notes

Fresh corn is recommended for the best flavor, but frozen or canned corn works well too in a pinch.
Adjust the lime juice and seasonings to taste, especially if you prefer a tangier slaw.
Chilling your coleslaw for about 30 minutes before serving can enhance the flavors and make for a more satisfying dish.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this coleslaw alongside grilled meats for a refreshing and complementary side.
Pair it with tacos, burritos, or any Mexican-inspired meal for the ultimate combination.
It can also be enjoyed on its own as a light and refreshing salad!

Tips

Use fresh lime juice for the best flavor; bottled juice may lack the zesty kick.
For extra creaminess, use full-fat mayonnaise and sour cream or Greek yogurt.
Add chopped avocados right before serving for a creamy texture.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: 210
Protein: 5g
Sodium: 220mg

FAQs

Can I make this slaw ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the slaw a few hours in advance. Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve to prevent the cabbage from wilting.

What kind of corn should I use?

Fresh corn is preferred for the best flavor, but frozen or canned corn works well too if fresh isn’t available.

Can I make this vegetarian-friendly?

Absolutely! The coleslaw is naturally vegetarian. Just ensure the mayonnaise used is free from eggs if you prefer it vegan.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, all ingredients in this recipe are gluten-free, but always check your labels to be sure!

Conclusion

This Mexican Street Corn Coleslaw is a refreshing and creative dish that brings together the beloved flavors of Elote in a crispy coleslaw form. It’s perfect for all occasions, whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or just looking for a delicious side to accompany your next meal. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe; it’s simple to make and sure to impress! Share your variations and thoughts in the comments below, and don’t forget to let your friends know about this vibrant dish!