Mexican Coleslaw

If you’re looking for a vibrant and refreshing dish to brighten up your meals, this Mexican coleslaw is just the ticket! It’s creamy, crunchy, and tangy – perfect as a topping for tacos or as a side for those sunny BBQs. What I love most about this recipe is how it brings together simple ingredients to create something truly special. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a family gathering, this coleslaw fits right in.

I often find myself making it for potlucks or picnics because it’s always a crowd-pleaser. Plus, it can be made ahead of time, giving the flavors a chance to mingle in the fridge. Trust me; your taste buds will thank you!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you’ll have a delicious dish ready to go.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the colorful veggies and creamy dressing, making it a hit with everyone at the table.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare this dish in advance; it only gets better after chilling!
• Versatile Usage: Use it as a taco topping or serve it alongside grilled meats – the possibilities are endless!
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with fiber from the veggies and beans, it’s a nutritious addition to any meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Mexican coleslaw features simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. Here’s what you’ll need to create this tasty dish:

For the Dressing

• ¾ cup mayonnaise
• ½ cup sour cream
• 2 tablespoons taco seasoning
• 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

For the Salad

• 20 ounce (2 10-ounce) bags pre-shredded coleslaw mix (shredded carrots, shredded red cabbage, and shredded green cabbage)
• 1 cup diced red bell pepper
• 15.25 ounce can black beans (drained and rinsed)
• 14.75 ounce can fire-roasted corn (drained)
• 3 tablespoons minced fresh jalapeno pepper (veins and seeds removed)
• ⅓ cup chopped fresh cilantro (plus additional for garnish)

Variations

This Mexican coleslaw is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to mix things up based on your taste preferences or what’s in your pantry.

• Add Some Crunch: Toss in some chopped nuts like almonds or sunflower seeds for an extra crunch.
• Change Up the Veggies: Substitute the bell pepper with diced tomatoes or sliced radishes for a different flavor profile.
• Go Spicy: If you like heat, add more jalapeños or even some diced serrano peppers.
• Mix in Fruits: For a sweet twist, try adding diced mango or pineapple; they pair beautifully with the tangy dressing.

How to Make Mexican Coleslaw

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

To start off, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, taco seasoning, fresh lime juice, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl until smooth. This creamy dressing is what gives your coleslaw that deliciously tangy flavor that balances out all the crunchy veggies.

Step 2: Combine Your Salad Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the pre-shredded coleslaw mix with diced red bell pepper, black beans, fire-roasted corn, minced jalapeño pepper, and chopped cilantro. Then pour in your prepared dressing. Using a large spoon, stir everything together gently until all the ingredients are evenly coated. This step is important because every bite should be bursting with flavor!

Step 3: Chill Out

Cover your bowl with plastic wrap and pop it into the fridge for about 30 minutes. Chilling allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together perfectly. Plus, it makes for an extra refreshing side dish when served cold!

Step 4: Serve It Up

Once chilled, transfer your Mexican coleslaw to a serving bowl and garnish with additional chopped fresh cilantro for that lovely finishing touch. Now you’re ready to enjoy this delightful dish!

Pro Tips for Making Mexican Coleslaw

Creating the perfect Mexican coleslaw is a breeze with just a few helpful tips. Here are some pro suggestions to ensure your dish is bursting with flavor and texture!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables not only enhance the taste but also add vibrant colors to your coleslaw, making it visually appealing.
• Adjust spice levels: If you’re sensitive to heat, reduce the amount of jalapeno or omit it entirely. Conversely, if you love a kick, feel free to add more jalapeno or even some diced serrano peppers.
• Make it ahead of time: Preparing your coleslaw a few hours in advance allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just remember to give it a good stir before serving!
• Experiment with toppings: Don’t hesitate to add extras like avocado slices or crumbled tortilla chips for added texture and flavor.
• Store properly: For leftovers, keep them in an airtight container in the fridge. This will help maintain the crunchiness of the veggies longer.

How to Serve Mexican Coleslaw

Mexican coleslaw is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. Here are some creative ways to present this delightful dish at your next gathering!

Garnishes

• Chopped green onions: Adding chopped green onions on top brings a mild onion flavor and a pop of color that enhances the dish’s presentation.
• Lime wedges: Serve lime wedges alongside for guests who may want an extra squeeze of citrus for brightness.
• Sliced radishes: Thinly sliced radishes can provide an extra crunchy texture and visual appeal.

Side Dishes

• Grilled Chicken Skewers: Juicy grilled chicken skewers seasoned with cumin and paprika complement the freshness of coleslaw perfectly.
• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad tossed with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a lemon dressing adds another healthy option that pairs well with the tangy flavors of the coleslaw.
• Vegetable Quesadillas: Cheesy vegetable quesadillas filled with your favorite veggies make for a satisfying side that’s sure to please everyone at the table.
• Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries offer a delicious contrast in flavor and sweetness, making them a great accompaniment alongside your coleslaw.

Now you’re all set to prepare and serve your delightful Mexican coleslaw! Enjoy every bite as you share this refreshing dish with friends and family.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Mexican coleslaw is perfect for meal prep! Not only does it taste even better after the flavors have had time to meld, but it’s also a breeze to store for later enjoyment.

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftover coleslaw in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate promptly and consume within 3-5 days for optimal freshness.
• If the coleslaw becomes too watery, simply stir it before serving.

Freezing

• While fresh coleslaw is best enjoyed chilled, you can freeze any uncoated ingredients (like beans or corn) separately if needed.
• For freezing portions, use freezer-safe bags or containers, removing as much air as possible.
• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight when ready to enjoy.

Reheating

• It’s recommended to serve this dish cold; however, if you prefer a warm version, gently heat individual portions on the stove over low heat until warmed through.
• Avoid microwaving as it may make the cabbage soggy.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making and enjoying Mexican coleslaw:

Can I make Mexican coleslaw ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the coleslaw a day in advance. Just store it in the fridge to let the flavors develop.

What can I serve with Mexican coleslaw?

Mexican coleslaw pairs wonderfully with tacos, grilled meats, or as a refreshing side for BBQs. It’s versatile and adds a delightful crunch!

How long does Mexican coleslaw last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, Mexican coleslaw will last 3-5 days in the refrigerator.

Can I customize my Mexican coleslaw recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite veggies or swap out ingredients based on your preference. It’s all about making it your own!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this vibrant and flavorful Mexican coleslaw just as much as I do! It’s a fantastic addition to any meal and is sure to impress friends and family alike. Don’t hesitate to experiment with ingredients that suit your taste. Have fun in the kitchen and savor every bite!