Mexican coleslaw brings a fresh twist to the classic slaw you might be familiar with. It is a vibrant dish that combines crisp vegetables with creamy and tangy flavors, making it a perfect side for any gathering. With a delightful mix of colors and tastes, you will find it hard to resist this lively salad.
Why We Love This Mexican Coleslaw Recipe
This Mexican coleslaw recipe offers a unique combination of flavors that perfectly complement various dishes. The creamy dressing, infused with lime and taco seasoning, adds a burst of zest that brightens every bite. The inclusion of black beans and corn not only provides extra texture but also boosts the dish’s nutritional value. Additionally, the vibrant colors of the tri-color coleslaw and diced red bell pepper create a feast for the eyes, making it an attractive addition to any meal. Whether you’re serving it at a barbecue, a taco night, or just as a light side, this coleslaw is sure to become one of your favorites.
Ingredients about Mexican Coleslaw
To create this delicious Mexican coleslaw, gather the following ingredients:
List of ingredients with measurements
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- ⅔ cup sour cream
- 3 tablespoons lime juice
- 2 tablespoons taco seasoning
- 1 (16-ounce) bag tri-color coleslaw
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 (10-ounce) can Rotel diced tomatoes and green chiles, drained
- 1 (11-ounce) can corn kernels, drained
- 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and finely chopped
- ½ cup chopped fresh cilantro
How to Make Mexican Coleslaw Directions
Making Mexican coleslaw is a simple and enjoyable process that you can accomplish in just a few minutes. Start by gathering all your ingredients and a large mixing bowl. This will be the main vessel for blending all the wonderful flavors together. In the bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, and taco seasoning. Use a whisk or spatula to blend these ingredients until they reach a creamy and smooth consistency.
Next, it’s time to add the colorful vegetables. Pour in the tri-color coleslaw mix and the diced red bell pepper. These ingredients bring a delightful crunch to your dish. Then, open the can of Rotel tomatoes and green chiles, ensuring you’ve drained them well to avoid excess moisture in the coleslaw. Add those into the mix as well, along with the corn kernels and black beans. These ingredients not only add texture but also a burst of flavor.
Now, for a little heat, incorporate the finely chopped jalapeno pepper. Adjust the amount depending on your heat preference. Lastly, you’ll want to fold in the fresh cilantro, which adds a fragrant note to the coleslaw. Be gentle when mixing everything together to ensure that the dressing coats all the vegetables without breaking down the ingredients too much.
Once fully combined, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid. Place the coleslaw in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This chilling period allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, resulting in a more cohesive salad. After the wait, your Mexican coleslaw is ready to serve.
How to Serve Mexican Coleslaw
Serving Mexican coleslaw is a breeze thanks to its versatility. You can present it in a beautiful serving bowl, garnished with a sprinkle of chopped cilantro and a few lime wedges on the side. This not only enhances its appearance but also gives your guests the option to add extra lime for a zesty kick if they desire.
This dish pairs exceptionally well with tacos, grilled meats, or even as a topping on burritos and quesadillas. If you’re hosting a gathering, consider offering this coleslaw on a buffet table where guests can help themselves alongside other Mexican dishes. The crunchy texture and refreshing flavors balance out heavier dishes, making each bite delightful. Whether you enjoy it as a side or as a topping, this coleslaw is sure to impress.
Expert Tips: Mexican Coleslaw
To make the most delicious Mexican coleslaw, keep the following expert tips in mind:
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for the freshest vegetables you can find. Crisp cabbage and colorful bell peppers will enhance the dish’s taste and appearance.
- Adjust the Spice Level: If you’re not a fan of too much heat, you can tweak the amount of jalapeno or skip it altogether. Conversely, if you love spice, consider adding some diced serrano peppers for an extra kick.
- Let It Marinate: Allowing the coleslaw to sit in the fridge for longer than 30 minutes is beneficial. An hour or up to a few hours creates a richer flavor as the vegetables soak up the creamy dressing.
- Make It Ahead: This coleslaw is perfect for meal prep or parties, as it can be made a day in advance. Just be sure to give it another gentle toss before serving to mix any settled ingredients.
- Add Additional Toppings: Feel free to get creative! Shredded cheese, avocado chunks, or even a handful of crushed tortilla chips added just before serving can elevate the dish further.
How to Store Mexican Coleslaw
Storing leftover Mexican coleslaw is simple. Place any uneaten coleslaw in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It’s best consumed within 3 to 5 days. The dressing may make the cabbage soften a bit, so if you want to maintain that crunch, consider storing the dressing separately from the veggies and mixing them right before serving.
If you need to freeze leftovers, it is possible but not recommended for the best texture. The vegetables will lose their crunch once thawed. Instead, enjoy this vibrant side fresh and crisp.
Variation of Mexican Coleslaw
One of the best things about Mexican coleslaw is its adaptability. Here are some exciting variations you might consider trying:
- Tropical Twist: Add diced mango or pineapple for a refreshing, sweet contrast that pairs wonderfully with the zesty dressing.
- Creamy Avocado: Incorporating mashed avocado into the dressing can create an even richer and creamier slaw while adding a slight green hue.
- Spicy Southwest: Incorporate diced green onions, black olives, or a sprinkle of chili powder for an added Southwestern flair.
- Crunchy Nuts: Toss in some chopped nuts like pecans or almonds for an unexpected crunch and nuttiness.
- Seasonal Veggies: Depending on the season, consider incorporating other vegetables. Shredded carrots or snap peas can add additional color and crunch.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What makes this Mexican coleslaw different from traditional coleslaw?
This Mexican coleslaw stands out because of its unique dressing made with mayonnaise, sour cream, and taco seasoning, which adds a zesty flavor. Additionally, the inclusion of black beans, corn, and jalapenos sets it apart from the usual cabbage slaw.
Can I make this Mexican coleslaw vegan?
Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe to be vegan. Substitute the mayonnaise and sour cream with vegan alternatives. Make sure your taco seasoning is also free of any animal products.
How long does Mexican coleslaw last in the refrigerator?
When stored properly in an airtight container, Mexican coleslaw will last for approximately 3 to 5 days in the refrigerator.
Can I use other types of cabbage in this coleslaw?
Absolutely! While tri-color coleslaw mix is a great base, you can use any variety of cabbage, such as green, red, or Napa cabbage, to suit your taste.
Is there a way to make this coleslaw spicier?
If you enjoy heat, try using more jalapeno or even include a dash of cayenne pepper in the dressing. You could also add some hot sauce for an extra kick.
What foods pair well with Mexican coleslaw?
Mexican coleslaw pairs beautifully with grilled meats like chicken and steak, tacos, burritos, or even alongside barbecued dishes. It adds a refreshing crunch that complements rich and savory flavors.
Mexican Coleslaw
Ingredients
Dressing
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- ⅔ cup sour cream
- 3 tablespoons lime juice
- 2 tablespoons taco seasoning
Coleslaw Mix
- 1 16-ounce bag tri-color coleslaw
- 1 red bell pepper diced
- 1 10-ounce can Rotel diced tomatoes and green chiles drained
- 1 11-ounce can corn kernels drained
- 1 15-ounce can black beans drained and rinsed
- 1 jalapeno pepper seeded and finely chopped adjust for heat preference
- ½ cup fresh cilantro chopped
Instructions
Preparation
- Gather all ingredients and a large mixing bowl.
- In the bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, and taco seasoning and blend until smooth.
- Add the tri-color coleslaw mix and diced red bell pepper to the bowl.
- Add the drained Rotel tomatoes and green chiles, corn kernels, and black beans.
- Incorporate the chopped jalapeno pepper.
- Gently fold in the fresh cilantro.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Serving
- Serve in a bowl garnished with chopped cilantro and lime wedges.
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