Jalapeño Corn Coleslaw 🌽🌶️coleslaw
This Jalapeño Corn Coleslaw is a refreshing and zesty twist on the classic coleslaw, combining the sweetness of fresh corn with the kick of jalapeños and the brightness of cilantro. The creamy dressing ties everything together for a side dish that’s perfect for summer barbecues, picnics, or as a vibrant addition to tacos, burgers, or grilled meats. It’s light, flavorful, and packed with texture!
Let’s dive into how to make this delicious, crowd-pleasing coleslaw step by step.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Fresh & Zesty : Sweet corn, spicy jalapeños, and tangy lime juice create a flavor-packed dish.
- Creamy Dressing : The mayonnaise-based dressing is balanced with sugar, mustard, and lime for a perfect blend of creaminess and tang.
- Versatile : Great as a side dish, topping, or even taco filling.
- Quick & Easy : Ready in under 20 minutes with simple, fresh ingredients.
- Customizable : Adjust the spice level or add extra veggies to suit your taste.
Ingredients
(Serves 6–8)
For the Slaw:
- 8 cups shredded Napa or green cabbage (about 1 medium head )
- 3 ears fresh corn , kernels cut off (about 2 cups worth )
- ½ large jalapeño , minced (about ¼ cup worth, adjust for spice preference )
- ½ bunch fresh cilantro , chopped small (about ½ cup worth )
- 2 green onions , sliced thin (about ¼ cup worth )
For the Dressing:
- ¾ cup mayonnaise
- 3 tablespoons sugar
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice (about 1 lime )
- 1 teaspoon celery seeds
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Shred the cabbage using a sharp knife, mandoline, or food processor. Place it in a large mixing bowl.
- Cut the kernels off the corn by standing each ear upright on a cutting board and slicing down with a sharp knife. Add the kernels to the bowl with the cabbage.
- Mince the jalapeño , chop the cilantro , and slice the green onions . Add them to the bowl.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
- In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise , sugar , Dijon mustard , lime juice , celery seeds , and kosher salt until smooth and well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed (add more sugar for sweetness or lime juice for tang).
Step 3: Combine Everything
- Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture in the large bowl. Toss gently until all the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
Step 4: Chill and Serve
- Cover the coleslaw and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Give the slaw a final toss before serving. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Tips for Success
- Adjust the Spice Level : Remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapeño for less heat, or add more jalapeño for extra spice.
- Use Frozen Corn : If fresh corn isn’t available, substitute with thawed frozen corn kernels.
- Add Protein : Stir in cooked chicken, black beans, or crispy bacon for a heartier dish.
- Storage : Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days . The flavors will deepen over time, but the vegetables may soften slightly.
- Make Ahead : Prepare the slaw and dressing separately up to a day in advance. Combine just before serving to maintain crispness.
Perfect Pairings
This Jalapeño Corn Coleslaw pairs beautifully with:
- Grilled Meats : Serve alongside burgers, chicken, or ribs for a barbecue feast.
- Tacos or Burritos : Use it as a topping for fish tacos, carnitas, or burrito bowls.
- Sandwiches : Add a scoop to pulled pork sandwiches or sliders for extra crunch and flavor.
- Chips and Dips : Pair with tortilla chips and guacamole for a Mexican-inspired spread.
- Sparkling Beverages : Pair with sparkling water, lemonade, or margaritas for a refreshing contrast.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approx.)
(Based on 8 servings)
- Calories : ~200 kcal
- Protein : ~3g
- Carbohydrates : ~18g
- Fat : ~15g
- Fiber : ~3g
Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific brands and portion sizes.
Final Thoughts
This Jalapeño Corn Coleslaw is a vibrant, flavorful side dish that’s perfect for adding a pop of color and spice to any meal. Whether you’re serving it at a summer barbecue, pairing it with tacos, or simply craving something fresh and zesty, this recipe delivers big on taste and texture. The combination of sweet corn, spicy jalapeños, and creamy dressing creates a dish that’s both satisfying and refreshing.
The best part? It’s endlessly customizable, so you can tweak the spice level, add extra veggies, or pair it with different proteins to make it your own. So grab your cabbage, cut that corn, and get ready to enjoy a slaw that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.
