Mexican Street Corn Slaw

This Mexican Street Corn Slaw recipe is about to be your new favorite side dish! The combination of smoky flavors, creamy textures, and the sweetness of charred corn creates a unique and delicious experience. Perfect for barbecues, picnics, or taco nights, this slaw is both refreshing and satisfying. With its standout ingredients like feta cheese and fresh jalapeños, it adds a delightful twist to any meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe comes together in just 22 minutes, making it a quick option for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Bursting with Flavor: The blend of smoky paprika, spicy jalapeño, and tangy lime juice creates a flavor profile that will wow your taste buds.
• Versatile Side Dish: Whether served alongside grilled meats or tacos, this slaw complements a variety of dishes beautifully.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with fresh vegetables and wholesome ingredients, this slaw is not only delicious but also nutritious.
• Make Ahead Option: Prepare this slaw in advance for parties; it tastes even better after sitting for a bit to let the flavors meld together.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delightful recipe, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Small bowl
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: Essential for charring the corn and jalapeños, adding depth to the flavors.
• Mixing bowl: A large bowl allows you to combine all ingredients easily without spilling.
• Knife & Cutting board: Necessary for chopping vegetables like jalapeños and green onions precisely.

Ingredients

For the Dressing

• ½ cup mayonnaise
• ½ cup sour cream
• 2 tablespoon lime juice (1 lime)
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• ½ teaspoon pepper (or to taste)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Slaw

• 2 cups corn
• 1 jalapeno (diced small)
• 4 cups red cabbage (shredded)
• 1 green bell pepper (julienned)
• ¼ cup fresh cilantro (chopped)
• 6 green onions (sliced)
• ½ cup feta cheese (crumbled)

How to Make Mexican Street Corn Slaw

Step 1: Prep the Corn and Dressing

Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the corn and jalapeños. Cook until they begin to char, about 5–7 minutes. While that’s happening, mix the dressing ingredients together in a small bowl.

Step 2: Finish the Slaw

In a large bowl, combine all slaw ingredients with the corn mixture and dressing. Toss well until everything is evenly coated. Serve immediately or chill before serving for enhanced flavor. Enjoy your tasty Mexican Street Corn Slaw!

How to Serve Mexican Street Corn Slaw

This Mexican Street Corn Slaw is a versatile dish that can complement many meals. Its smoky, creamy flavor profile makes it an excellent addition to various occasions.

At a Barbecue

• Serve it chilled alongside grilled meats for a refreshing contrast.

As a Taco Topping

• Use it as a topping for tacos to add crunch and flavor; it’s especially good on fish or chicken tacos.

With Grilled Vegetables

• Pair the slaw with grilled vegetables for a vibrant, plant-based meal that’s both colorful and delicious.

As Part of a Picnic Spread

• Include it in your picnic basket as a delightful side that remains fresh and tasty outdoors.

With Tortilla Chips

• Serve it as a dip with tortilla chips for an appetizer that will have your guests coming back for more.

How to Perfect Mexican Street Corn Slaw

To ensure your Mexican Street Corn Slaw reaches its full potential, consider these helpful tips.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh corn and crisp vegetables enhance flavor and texture.
• Adjust spice levels: Feel free to modify the amount of jalapeño and chili powder based on your heat preference.
• Let it chill: Allow the slaw to sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving to let flavors meld.
• Experiment with cheese: Try different types of cheese like queso fresco or cotija for varied taste profiles.
• Add lime zest: A little lime zest can brighten up the flavors even more, enhancing the slaw’s freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Mexican Street Corn Slaw

This slaw pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Grilled Chicken – Juicy grilled chicken breasts seasoned with spices make for a hearty pairing.
2. Black Bean Salad – A protein-packed salad with black beans, corn, and avocado provides contrast in texture.
3. Quesadillas – Cheese-filled quesadillas add melty goodness that complements the crunchy slaw perfectly.
4. Rice and Beans – A classic combination of seasoned rice and beans brings additional heartiness to your meal.
5. Chips and Guacamole – Crunchy tortilla chips paired with creamy guacamole create a satisfying snack option.
6. Roasted Potatoes – Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs offer a comforting side that balances the freshness of the slaw.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Mexican Street Corn Slaw, avoiding common pitfalls ensures your dish is delicious and appealing. Here are a few mistakes to steer clear of:

• Skipping the char on the corn: Not charring the corn can lead to a lack of depth in flavor. Ensure you cook it until it has a nice golden color.
• Overdressing the slaw: Adding too much dressing can make the slaw soggy. Start with less and add more if needed for flavor.
• Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Everyone’s taste varies. Always taste and adjust salt and pepper before serving.
• Using old vegetables: Fresh produce is key! Wilted or stale vegetables will compromise the texture and taste of your slaw.
• Ignoring ingredient substitutions: If you don’t have an ingredient like feta cheese, use another cheese or omit it entirely instead of skipping it.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep the dressing separate if possible to maintain crunchiness.

Freezing Mexican Street Corn Slaw

• Freezing is not recommended as it may alter the texture of the vegetables.
• If you must freeze, store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

Reheating Mexican Street Corn Slaw

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Spread slaw on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl covered loosely with a lid. Heat on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway.
• Stovetop: Warm gently over low heat in a skillet until heated through, stirring frequently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Mexican Street Corn Slaw.

Can I customize my Mexican Street Corn Slaw?

Absolutely! You can add different ingredients like avocado or black beans for added flavor and nutrition.

How can I make this slaw spicier?

To enhance the spice level, add more jalapeños or include diced serrano peppers for extra heat.

What can I serve with Mexican Street Corn Slaw?

This slaw pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, tacos, or as part of a summer potluck spread.

Is there a vegan version of Mexican Street Corn Slaw?

Yes! Substitute mayonnaise and sour cream with vegan alternatives and skip the feta or use a plant-based cheese.

Final Thoughts

Mexican Street Corn Slaw is a delightful mix of flavors that adds excitement to any meal. Its versatility allows you to customize it based on your preferences. Whether served at a cookout or as a side dish during dinner, this slaw is sure to impress. Give it a try and enjoy all its delicious possibilities!