The first bite of this Mexican Street Corn Slaw is like a fiesta for your taste buds! The crunch of fresh cabbage pairs perfectly with sweet corn and zesty lime, giving every spoonful a vibrant edge. One sunny afternoon, as I was dreaming about summer barbecues, I realized I needed something refreshing to break the monotony of my go-to sides. That’s when this colorful slaw came to the rescue.
With just a handful of simple ingredients and 15 minutes of prep, this dish transforms dull meals into a lively celebration. Imagine serving this at your next gathering—its bright flavors are sure to impress, and it works beautifully as a topping for tacos or a stand-alone side. It’s quick to whip up, yet it feels special enough to elevate any table. So grab your chopping board and let’s dive into this delightful recipe that’s bound to become a staple in your kitchen!
Why You'll Love This Mexican Street Corn Slaw
- This Mexican Street Corn Slaw is incredibly easy to make, with just 15 minutes of prep time, making it a fantastic option for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings.
- The combination of fresh cabbage and sweet corn, dressed in a zesty lime mayo, creates a flavor explosion that will wow your taste buds and leave you wanting more.
- Versatile enough to serve as a side or a topping for tacos, this slaw complements a variety of dishes, adding a refreshing crunch to every meal.
- Its vibrant colors and textures make it visually appealing, turning any plate into a festive celebration.
Mexican Street Corn Slaw Ingredients
A delicious slaw is only a few ingredients away!
For the Slaw
• Shredded cabbage – adds a crunchy base that holds all the flavors.
• Corn kernels – bring natural sweetness and a pop of color.
• Diced red onion – provides a mild sharpness that balances the dish.
• Chopped cilantro – offers a fresh herbaceous note that brightens up the slaw.
For the Dressing
• Mayonnaise – creates a creamy texture; substitute with Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
• Lime juice – adds a zesty zing and enhances the overall flavor of the Mexican Street Corn Slaw.
• Chili powder – imparts a warm, spicy kick that enhances the taste.
• Salt – to taste, for bringing all the flavors together.
How to Make Mexican Street Corn Slaw
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Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the shredded cabbage, corn kernels, diced red onion, and chopped cilantro. The colors should be bright and inviting, setting the stage for your refreshing slaw.
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Prepare Dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, lime juice, chili powder, and salt until smooth. The mixture should be creamy and well-blended, balancing tangy and savory flavors.
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Mix Together: Pour the dressing over the slaw mixture and gently toss to combine. Ensure every bit of cabbage and corn is coated beautifully, absorbing all the flavors.
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Chill: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together, enhancing the taste and making it even more delicious.
Optional: Add crumbled queso fresco on top before serving for an extra layer of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Mexican Street Corn Slaw
Fridge: Store any leftover Mexican Street Corn Slaw in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Enjoy the freshest flavors by consuming it within this period!
Freezer: While slaw can be frozen, it’s best to avoid freezing due to the texture changes. If necessary, it can last in the freezer for up to 2 months.
Reheating: If chilled, serve it cold or at room temperature straight from the fridge for maximum crunch. Avoid reheating, as it may wilt.
Preparation Tips: If planning to make it in advance, prepare the slaw ingredients, and dress them just before serving to keep everything fresh and vibrant!
Make Ahead Options
These Mexican Street Corn Slaw preparations are perfect for savvy meal preppers! You can chop the cabbage, corn, red onion, and cilantro up to 3 days ahead of time and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh and crisp. Additionally, you can whisk together the dressing—mayonnaise, lime juice, chili powder, and salt—up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it separately to maintain the creamy texture. When ready to serve, simply combine the prepped slaw ingredients with the dressing, toss it gently, and allow it to chill for another 30 minutes to let the flavors blend beautifully. This way, you’ll have a vibrant, restaurant-quality Mexican Street Corn Slaw ready with minimal last-minute effort!
Mexican Street Corn Slaw Variations
Feel free to get creative with this delightful slaw and make it your own!
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Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños for a fiery twist that ignites your taste buds. Just a little goes a long way!
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Tex-Mex Flair: Mix in black beans for extra protein and a heartier bite. They add both texture and a lovely pop of color.
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Vegan Delight: Substitute mayonnaise with vegan mayo or silken tofu for a creamy yet plant-based version. It remains just as luscious!
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Fruity Zest: Toss in diced mango or pineapple for a sweet surprise. The fruits bring a tropical sweetness that dances with the zesty lime.
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Creamy Avocado: Fold in diced avocado before serving for a rich and buttery texture. It elevates the slaw to a whole new level of indulgence.
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Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle toasted pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds on top for an added crunch and nutty flavor. They provide a satisfying bite that complements the slaw beautifully.
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Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh mint or basil instead of cilantro for a refreshing herbal twist. Each herb brings a unique flavor that can brighten the entire dish.
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Roasted Goodness: Use oven-roasted corn instead of fresh for a sweet and smoky depth. It transforms the taste profile, creating a fabulous new experience!
What to Serve with Mexican Street Corn Slaw?
To create a delightful meal, consider these vibrant pairings that’ll elevate your dining experience.
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Grilled Chicken Tacos: The smoky flavor of grilled chicken beautifully complements the zesty slaw, adding a satisfying protein boost.
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Spicy Black Beans: With their tender texture and hearty flavor, spicy black beans create a delicious contrast against the crispness of the slaw.
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Avocado Toast: Creamy avocado on toasted bread adds richness, balancing the crunch of the slaw and bringing a creamy comfort to the plate.
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Cilantro Lime Rice: This fluffy rice dish echoes the bright lime notes in the slaw, tying everything together in a refreshing, flavor-packed meal.
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Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness pairs wonderfully with the slaw, providing a warm contrast that enhances the overall experience.
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Chilled Limeade: The zesty refreshment of a chilled limeade harmonizes with the slaw’s flavors, making it a perfect drink accompaniment.
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Fruit Salad: A colorful fruit medley brings a sweet and juicy element that beautifully rounds out the meal alongside the savory slaw.
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Chocolate Chip Cookies: End your meal with a sweet touch; the gooey chocolate pairs whimsically with the lightness of the slaw for a delightful finish.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve the perfect texture in your Mexican Street Corn Slaw, make sure to shred the cabbage finely for better flavor absorption.
- A common mistake is not seasoning the dressing enough, so taste and adjust the salt to bring out the flavors effectively.
- When mixing the slaw and dressing, use a gentle folding motion to ensure all ingredients are well coated without bruising the cabbage.
- For the best results, allow your slaw to chill for at least 30 minutes to give the flavors time to meld and enhance the overall taste.
Mexican Street Corn Slaw Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right cabbage for my Mexican Street Corn Slaw?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, look for a cabbage that’s firm and heavy for its size. The outer leaves should be bright and crisp without any dark spots. Savoy cabbage is a delightful choice for a sweeter taste, while green cabbage provides that classic crunch.
How should I store leftover Mexican Street Corn Slaw?
To keep your slaw fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to give it a good stir before serving, as the dressing may settle at the bottom. I often keep it tightly sealed to avoid any unwanted odors from the fridge!
Can I freeze Mexican Street Corn Slaw?
While it is possible to freeze Mexican Street Corn Slaw, I recommend against it due to texture changes. If you must freeze it, place it in a freeze-safe container for up to 2 months. To thaw, simply transfer it to the refrigerator overnight. Just remember that the cabbage may become softer once thawed, so it’s best enjoyed fresh.
What if my slaw turns out too watery?
No worries! If you find your slaw is too watery, it might mean the cabbage was over-salted or let too much moisture out. You can combat this by draining any excess liquid and adding a bit more cabbage or cilantro to balance it out. Alternatively, try incorporating some diced bell pepper or carrots for a crunchy texture.
Is this recipe suitable for vegans or those with allergies?
Very! To make a vegan version of Mexican Street Corn Slaw, substitute the mayonnaise with a plant-based mayo or Greek yogurt alternative. Additionally, check for any allergies related to cilantro or chili powder. The dressing can be adjusted by omitting these ingredients for a milder taste to accommodate different palates.
Equipment
- large bowl
- Whisk
Ingredients
For the Slaw
- 4 cups shredded cabbage
- 1 cup corn kernels fresh or canned
- 1/2 cup diced red onion
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
For the Dressing
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise can substitute with Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons lime juice freshly squeezed
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- to taste teaspoon salt
Instructions
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix the shredded cabbage, corn kernels, diced red onion, and chopped cilantro.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, lime juice, chili powder, and salt until smooth.
- Pour the dressing over the slaw mixture and gently toss to combine.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
