The first bite of Mexican Street Corn Coleslaw is like a fiesta in your mouth. Imagine the crunch of fresh cabbage mingling with sweet corn, all drizzled with a zesty lime dressing that dances on your taste buds. This vibrant dish bursts with color, flavor, and a hint of spice, making it the perfect companion for summer BBQs or taco nights.

I remember the first time I made this coleslaw my friends were skeptical. “Corn in coleslaw? Really?” But one bite later, they were asking for seconds and thirds. The combination of textures and flavors truly makes it an unforgettable side dish, perfect for any occasion where good food and laughter collide.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Mexican Street Corn Coleslaw is a breeze to prepare, making it a go-to for busy weekdays or casual gatherings
- Its explosion of flavors is sure to impress even the pickiest eaters at your table
- The stunning colors make it a visual delight that can brighten up any meal
- It’s versatile enough to serve alongside grilled meats or as a fresh topping for tacos
Every time I serve this coleslaw, I watch my family’s eyes light up as they take their first bites.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Cabbage: Use green cabbage for crispness purple cabbage adds vibrant color if you’re feeling adventurous.
- Fresh Corn: Sweet corn kernels will bring sweetness feel free to use frozen corn if fresh isn’t available.
- Red Onion: Finely diced red onion adds a sharp bite and beautiful color contrast.
- Mayonnaise: A creamy base that binds everything together opt for Greek yogurt for a healthier twist.
- Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice brightens the flavors bottled juice just won’t do
- Chili Powder: Adds warmth and depth adjust the amount based on your spice tolerance.
- Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds an herbal note use sparingly if you’re not a fan
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning don’t skip these
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prep Your Veggies: Begin by finely shredding the cabbage and chopping the red onion into small pieces. The colors should be vibrant, creating excitement before you even start mixing.
Cook the Corn: If using fresh corn, boil or grill it until tender. Once cooled, cut the kernels off the cob. Frozen corn? Just thaw it out easy peasy
Mix it Up: In a large bowl, combine shredded cabbage, corn kernels, red onion, and chopped cilantro. Toss them gently to mix without bruising the vegetables.
Create the Dressing: In a separate small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, lime juice, chili powder, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy. The aroma should be tangy and inviting.
Toss It All Together: Pour the dressing over the veggie mixture and gently fold everything together until well coated. You want each piece of cabbage to glisten with that zesty goodness
Let It Chill: Cover your coleslaw and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows all those delightful flavors to meld together beautifully.
Serve this Mexican Street Corn Coleslaw chilled as a side dish or pile it onto tacos for an extra burst of flavor Enjoy every crunchy bite
You Must Know
- This Mexican Street Corn Coleslaw recipe blends crunchy textures and zesty flavors, making it a perfect side dish
- The sweetness of corn pairs beautifully with creamy dressing, adding a delightful twist to your meals
- Ideal for summer barbecues or taco nights
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by grilling fresh corn until it’s charred, then let it cool while preparing the coleslaw mix. This ensures maximum flavor infuses every bite.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the mayonnaise for Greek yogurt for a lighter dressing. Add jalapeños or avocado for an extra kick or creaminess.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Enjoy cold reheating may change the coleslaw’s texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Ensure your corn is fresh frozen can work but lacks that grill char flavor
- Adjust lime juice according to taste start with less and add more as needed
- Coleslaw tastes even better after chilling, so make it ahead of time for improved flavor
The first time I made Mexican Street Corn Coleslaw, my friends devoured it in minutes Their compliments made me feel like a culinary rockstar, and I couldn’t stop smiling.
FAQ
What is Mexican Street Corn Coleslaw?
Mexican Street Corn Coleslaw is a crunchy salad combining corn, cabbage, and zesty dressing.
Can I make this coleslaw ahead of time?
Yes, prepare it a day ahead for enhanced flavors just store it properly.
What can I serve with this coleslaw?
This coleslaw pairs well with grilled meats, tacos, or as a picnic side dish.

Mexican Street Corn Coleslaw
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
Description
Mexican Street Corn Coleslaw is a vibrant and refreshing side dish that combines crunchy cabbage with sweet corn, all tossed in a zesty lime dressing. This delightful coleslaw is perfect for summer barbecues, taco nights, or any gathering where you want to impress your guests with a burst of flavor. The combination of fresh ingredients and tangy dressing makes it a memorable addition to your meal.
Ingredients
- 4 cups green cabbage, finely shredded
- 1 cup fresh sweet corn kernels (or 1 cup frozen corn, thawed)
- ½ cup red onion, finely diced
- ½ cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt)
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Finely shred the cabbage and dice the red onion.
- Grill or boil fresh corn until tender; cool and cut kernels off the cob. For frozen corn, thaw it.
- In a large bowl, combine cabbage, corn, red onion, and cilantro. Toss gently.
- Whisk together mayonnaise, lime juice, chili powder, salt, and pepper in a separate bowl until smooth.
- Pour dressing over the veggie mix and fold until well combined.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: ½ cup (120g)
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 230mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 5mg