This refreshing Mexican coleslaw is a perfect summer side! Made with crunchy cabbage, zesty lime, and spicy jalapeños, it’s vibrant and full of flavor.
It’s so easy to whip together that you’ll want to make it every picnic! I love serving it with tacos or just enjoying it straight from the bowl. Can you blame me? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Green and Red Cabbage: Shredded cabbage is the base of this coleslaw. You can mix up the colors for a vibrant look. If you can’t find red cabbage, just use more green cabbage! Both offer a nice crunch.
Black Beans: These add protein and texture. If you’re not a fan, you can swap them with chickpeas or skip them altogether for a lighter dish.
Corn: Fresh corn is best for sweetness, but frozen corn works just as well! If you’re in a pinch, canned corn can also do the trick—just drain it well.
Mayonnaise: This creamy addition ties everything together. If you’re looking for a lighter option, Greek yogurt or sour cream can be substituted for a tangy twist. Vegan mayo is also a great alternative!
Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice brightens the dish. If you don’t have limes, lemon juice can be a good backup.
How Do I Make Sure My Coleslaw Is Crunchy?
To keep your coleslaw crunchy, the most important thing is to avoid letting it sit too long. Follow these tips:
- Mix the dressing separately and add it just before serving. This helps maintain the texture of the veggies.
- After shredding the cabbage, you can sprinkle a little salt and let it sit for about 10 minutes to draw out moisture. Rinse and dry it when done.
- Enjoy your coleslaw within 1-2 days for the best crunch!
Easy Mexican Coleslaw for Summer
Ingredients:
- 4 cups shredded green cabbage (about half a medium cabbage)
- 1 cup shredded red cabbage
- 1 cup canned black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or thawed frozen)
- 1 cup diced red bell pepper
- 1/2 cup diced red onion
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1 finely chopped jalapeño (for heat)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious coleslaw takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus at least 30 minutes of chilling time in the refrigerator. This gives the flavors a chance to blend together beautifully! In total, you’ll be ready to serve this dish in about 45 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Veggies:
In a large bowl, combine the shredded green cabbage, shredded red cabbage, black beans, corn, diced red bell pepper, diced red onion, and chopped cilantro. Give it a nice gentle toss so everything is mixed well.
2. Make the Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, lime juice, ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until the dressing is smooth and creamy—it’ll smell fantastic!
3. Combine and Mix:
Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss well to coat all the ingredients evenly. Cover your bowl with plastic wrap or a lid.
4. Chill in the Fridge:
Refrigerate the coleslaw for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and the cabbage to soften just a bit. It’s worth the wait!
5. Final Touches:
Before serving, toss the coleslaw again. You can add more salt, pepper, or lime juice to taste. If you like it spicy, mix in the finely chopped jalapeño now.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Mexican coleslaw chilled as a refreshing side dish for summer barbecues, with tacos, or enjoy it as a vibrant salad all on its own. It’s colorful, flavorful, and oh-so-delicious!
Enjoy this colorful and flavorful Mexican coleslaw that’s creamy, tangy, and has a perfect hint of spice!
FAQ for Easy Mexican Coleslaw
Can I Use Different Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add or substitute your favorite crunchy veggies like shredded carrots or diced cucumbers. Just keep the ratios similar to maintain the overall texture!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover coleslaw in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to mingle, but the texture might soften over time. Give it a good stir before serving!
Can I Make This Coleslaw Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! This coleslaw is perfect for making a day in advance. Just prepare it, cover it, and let it chill in the fridge. This lets the flavors develop even further!
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise?
If you prefer a lighter option, you can substitute Greek yogurt or sour cream. For a vegan version, use plant-based mayonnaise or a mixture of tahini and lemon juice for creaminess.