Jalapeño Corn Coleslaw is a vibrant and zesty twist on the classic coleslaw that’s perfect for almost any occasion.
This dish brings together crunchy, fresh vegetables with a creamy, tangy dressing that packs a flavorful punch, thanks to the addition of jalapeños. It’s easy to make, comforting to eat, and strikes that perfect balance between refreshing and satisfying.
This recipe is not only a crowd-pleaser but also a great way to add a burst of color and flavor to your summer barbecues, family gatherings, or simply as a side to your weeknight dinners.
Let’s dive into this step-by-step recipe that promises to elevate your coleslaw game!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
What makes Jalapeño Corn Coleslaw stand out? For starters, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, taking just minutes to whip up once you have your ingredients ready. With minimal prep time and no cooking required, it’s a quick fix for those busy days or spontaneous gatherings. It’s a true crowd-pleaser, sure to impress your friends and family with its bold flavors and stunning presentation. Moreover, this coleslaw is versatile—a fantastic side dish for grilled meats, a crunchy addition in tacos, or even as a topping for sandwiches. The best part? It’s made with fresh, wholesome ingredients that you can feel good about serving!
Ingredients
- 2 cups green cabbage, thinly sliced: The green cabbage adds a crisp and refreshing crunch, the foundation of any coleslaw.
- 1 cup red cabbage, thinly sliced: Not only does this add a pop of gorgeous color, but it also provides a slightly sweeter flavor.
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned): These juicy little gems add a sweet burst of flavor, perfectly complementing the crunchiness of the cabbage.
- 1 large jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped: For those who love a little heat, jalapeños provide a delightful kick that elevates the overall taste.
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped: The sharp, aromatic flavor of red onion enhances the overall profile of this dish.
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro adds an aromatic note and a hint of earthiness.
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise: Creamy and smooth, mayonnaise serves as the base for the coleslaw dressing.
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar: This tangy addition brightens the flavors and provides a nice acidity balance.
- 1 tablespoon lime juice: For an extra layer of zest that perfectly complements the other flavors.
- 1 tablespoon honey: A touch of sweetness to balance the heat from the jalapeño.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin: This aromatic spice adds depth and complexity to the dressing.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasoning to enhance the dish’s overall flavor.
Step-by-Step Directions
- Combine the Vegetables: In a large mixing bowl, combine the green cabbage, red cabbage, corn kernels, jalapeño, red onion, and cilantro. Toss them together until well combined. The colorful mix will look as good as it tastes!
- Prepare the Dressing: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, lime juice, honey, ground cumin, salt, and pepper until smooth. This creamy dressing will tie all the flavors of the coleslaw together beautifully.
- Mix It Up: Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture. Toss everything together until the cabbage and other ingredients are well-coated with the dressing. Make sure every piece of cabbage gets a nice coating—it’s what makes this coleslaw so delicious!
- Taste and Adjust: Taste the coleslaw and adjust seasoning if needed by adding more salt, pepper, or lime juice according to your preference. A quick taste test ensures the flavors are just right!
- Chill: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This resting time allows the flavors to meld together, creating a harmonious blend that enhances the overall taste.
- Serve: Give the coleslaw a final stir before serving. Transfer it to a serving bowl or platter, and enjoy this deliciously crunchy and creamy dish!
Tips & Tricks
- Pepper Heat: Depending on your preference for spice, you can adjust the amount of jalapeño or use a milder pepper, such as a poblano.
- Add Texture: For extra crunch, consider adding shredded carrots or sliced radishes to the mix.
- Make it Vegan: Replace the mayonnaise with a plant-based alternative to accommodate dietary preferences.
- Leave It to Chill: For the best taste, let this coleslaw sit in the fridge for a few hours or overnight, allowing the flavors to deepen.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
Jalapeño Corn Coleslaw is versatile and complements countless dishes. Serve it alongside grilled chicken, barbecue ribs, or tacos for a spirited meal. It also makes a fantastic filling for sandwiches or wraps and can elevate simple dishes to new heights. Plan it for summer potlucks, picnics, or as a fresh side at holiday gatherings—your guests will keep coming back for more!
Nutritional Information
Each serving of Jalapeño Corn Coleslaw contains approximately:
- Calories: 180
- Total Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 15g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 2g
This refreshing coleslaw offers a great balance of nutrients and is perfect for those looking to add more vegetables to their diet. Enjoying it as part of a balanced meal ensures a healthy lifestyle.
Storing Tips & Variations
Store any leftover coleslaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will intensify, making it even more delicious. However, the crunchiness of the cabbage may diminish as it sits, so it’s best enjoyed fresh. If you would like to switch things up, consider variations such as adding diced apples for sweetness or incorporating different herbs like parsley or dill for a unique twist. You can also omit the jalapeño for a milder version, suitable for those with delicate palates.
Conclusion
Don’t miss out on trying out this delightful Jalapeño Corn Coleslaw recipe! With its vibrant colors, tantalizing flavors, and ease of preparation, it’s a dish that’s sure to impress during any meal or gathering. Make it for a barbecue, serve it alongside your favorite dish, or enjoy it as a tasty snack. We’d love to hear about your experience with this recipe, so give it a try, and let us know how it turned out!
FAQs
1. Can I make this coleslaw in advance?
Absolutely! This coleslaw can be made a day ahead. Just store it in the refrigerator, and the flavors will meld beautifully overnight.
2. What can I use instead of mayonnaise?
For a lighter option, replace the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or a dairy-free alternative to keep the creamy texture without added calories.
3. Is it safe to eat raw cabbage?
Yes, raw cabbage is safe to eat and provides plenty of vitamins and nutrients. Just ensure it’s cleaned properly before preparation.
4. How spicy is this coleslaw?
The level of spiciness can be adjusted based on the amount of jalapeño used. For a milder version, simply reduce the quantity of jalapeño or remove the seeds and membranes.
5. What are some great pairings for this coleslaw?
This coleslaw pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, tacos, or even served atop burgers for an additional crunch and flavor boost. Enjoy experimenting with your favorite dishes!
Jalapeño Corn Coleslaw
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 2 cups green cabbage, thinly sliced Adds a crisp and refreshing crunch.
- 1 cup red cabbage, thinly sliced Provides a slightly sweeter flavor and gorgeous color.
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned) Adds a sweet burst of flavor.
- 1 large jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped Adds heat to the coleslaw.
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped Enhances the overall flavor with its sharpness.
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped Adds an aromatic note.
Dressing
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise Base for the coleslaw dressing.
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar Brightens flavors with acidity.
- 1 tablespoon lime juice Adds zest.
- 1 tablespoon honey Balances the heat with sweetness.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin Adds depth to the dressing.
- Salt and pepper to taste Essential seasoning.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the green cabbage, red cabbage, corn kernels, jalapeño, red onion, and cilantro. Toss them together until well combined.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, lime juice, honey, ground cumin, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss until everything is well-coated.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed by adding more salt, pepper, or lime juice.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Give the coleslaw a final stir before serving and transfer it to a serving bowl or platter.
