Introduction
If you love Mexican street corn (Elote) but want a fresher, crunchier twist, Mexican Street Corn Slaw is the perfect dish for you. This vibrant and flavorful slaw captures the essence of grilled Mexican corn on the cob, turning it into a refreshing, easy-to-make side dish. Packed with charred corn, shredded cabbage, creamy dressing, tangy lime juice, and bold spices, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser at barbecues, picnics, and family gatherings.
In this in-depth guide, we will walk you through how to make Mexican street corn slaw, its nutritional benefits, variations, serving suggestions, and answer some commonly asked questions. Let’s dive into this irresistible slaw!
Why You’ll Love This Mexican Street Corn Slaw
- Bold and Authentic Flavors – This slaw delivers the perfect balance of smoky, tangy, spicy, and creamy flavors.
- Quick and Easy to Prepare – Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
- Healthy and Nutritious – A lighter alternative to traditional mayo-heavy coleslaws, thanks to the fresh vegetables and spices.
- Versatile Side Dish – Pairs well with tacos, grilled meats, or as a topping for sandwiches and burgers.
- Make-Ahead Friendly – Tastes even better after a few hours in the fridge as the flavors meld together.
Ingredients for Mexican Street Corn Slaw
For the Dressing:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Slaw:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped
- 4 cups shredded green cabbage
- ½ small red onion, thinly sliced
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese (or cotija cheese for authentic flavor)
- ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dressing
In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until the dressing is smooth and well combined. Set it aside while you prepare the slaw.
Step 2: Cook the Corn
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add corn kernels and jalapeño to the skillet, sautéing for about 5-7 minutes until the corn becomes slightly charred.
- Remove from heat and allow it to cool slightly before mixing with the other ingredients.
Step 3: Assemble the Slaw
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, red onion, cooked corn mixture, feta cheese, and cilantro.
- Pour the dressing over the ingredients and toss to ensure everything is evenly coated.
Step 4: Chill and Serve
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to let the flavors meld.
- Serve chilled and enjoy!
Variations and Customization
Want to switch things up? Here are some ideas:
- Add Avocado – For a creamy texture and extra nutrients.
- Make it Spicier – Add extra jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce.
- Use Greek Yogurt – Substitute half the mayo for Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
- Grill the Corn – For a more authentic street corn flavor, grill the corn before cutting the kernels off.
- Add Beans – Black beans or pinto beans add protein and fiber.
- Go Dairy-Free – Skip the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
What to Serve with Mexican Street Corn Slaw
This slaw is incredibly versatile and pairs well with many dishes:
- Tacos – Serve it alongside chicken, beef, or fish tacos.
- Grilled Meats – Perfect with steak, pork chops, or grilled shrimp.
- Burgers & Sandwiches – Use as a topping for burgers, pulled pork sandwiches, or hot dogs.
- Mexican Rice & Beans – A great complement to a classic Mexican meal.
- BBQ Dishes – Serve at barbecues with ribs, grilled chicken, or brisket.
FAQs About Mexican Street Corn Slaw
1. Can I Make This Slaw Ahead of Time?
Yes! Mexican street corn slaw tastes even better after sitting in the fridge for a few hours. Just give it a good stir before serving.
2. Can I Use Frozen Corn Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw it before cooking, and sauté it until lightly charred for the best flavor.
3. How Long Does This Slaw Last in the Fridge?
Stored in an airtight container, it lasts 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
4. Can I Make This Slaw Vegan?
Yes! Use vegan mayonnaise, dairy-free yogurt, and omit the cheese for a fully plant-based version.
5. What’s the Difference Between Mexican Street Corn and Mexican Street Corn Slaw?
Mexican street corn (Elote) is grilled and served on the cob with toppings, while Mexican street corn slaw transforms the same flavors into a fresh, crunchy, and easy-to-eat salad.
Conclusion
Mexican Street Corn Slaw is a delicious, vibrant, and easy-to-make side dish that brings the bold flavors of Mexican cuisine to your table. With its charred corn, crunchy cabbage, creamy dressing, and zesty lime juice, this slaw is the perfect companion for tacos, grilled meats, and BBQ feasts. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner, summer cookout, or a quick weekday meal, this slaw will impress everyone who tastes it.
Give this Mexican street corn slaw recipe a try and elevate your next meal with its irresistible flavors. Let us know how you enjoyed it in the comments below!