This Easy Mexican Coleslaw is a colorful and crunchy side that’s perfect for taco night! It’s made with fresh cabbage, carrots, and a zingy dressing that adds a tasty twist.
You can whip it up in no time, so you won’t miss out on all that fun! I love how it adds a nice crunch to tacos. Plus, it keeps everything light and fresh—just what you need! 🌮
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cabbage: Green cabbage is used for a classic crunch. You can swap half or all for Napa cabbage for a milder flavor or add more purple cabbage for extra color. It looks great too!
Black Beans: Canned black beans add protein and texture. If you don’t have them, kidney beans or chickpeas are great alternatives. Just make sure to drain and rinse them well!
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro brings a bright flavor. If you’re not a fan, try using chopped green onions or parsley instead. They still add freshness without the strong taste of cilantro.
Mayonnaise & Sour Cream: These create the creamy dressing. For a lighter version, use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream. You could even use vegan mayo for a plant-based option!
How Can I Make Sure My Coleslaw is Crunchy and Fresh?
To keep your coleslaw crunchy, it’s crucial to chop and prepare your veggies right before serving. When you mix the dressing, aim for a light coat to avoid sogginess. Here are some tips:
- Shred cabbage and carrots thinly for the best texture.
- Let the coleslaw chill for about 30 minutes, but avoid longer periods to keep ingredients crisp.
- Mix in the dressing gently to maintain the crispness of the vegetables.
These steps will help you serve up a fresh and crunchy side dish for your taco night! Enjoy!
Easy Mexican Coleslaw Recipe for Taco Night
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 cups shredded green cabbage (about half a small head)
- 1 cup shredded purple cabbage
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 cup canned corn kernels, drained
- 1 cup canned black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 red bell pepper, finely diced
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, roughly chopped
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Mexican Coleslaw takes approximately 15 minutes to prepare, plus about 30 minutes in the refrigerator to let the flavors meld together. It’s a quick and easy side dish that perfectly complements your taco night, and you’ll love how fresh and vibrant it tastes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Veggies:
Start by taking a large mixing bowl. Add the shredded green cabbage, purple cabbage, carrots, corn, black beans, diced red bell pepper, red onion, and chopped cilantro. Give it a gentle stir to combine all the colorful vegetables together.
2. Prepare the Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This dressing is what brings all the flavors together!
3. Combine Everything:
Now pour the creamy dressing over the vegetable mixture in your large bowl. Toss everything together gently until all the veggies are evenly coated with the delicious dressing.
4. Taste and Adjust:
Here comes the fun part! Take a quick taste of your coleslaw. If you think it needs more flavor, feel free to add a pinch more salt, pepper, or even a splash more lime juice to brighten it up!
5. Chill and Serve:
Cover your coleslaw and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes. This will help the flavors develop and give the cabbage a chance to soften slightly, making it extra tasty. When you’re ready to serve, you can enjoy it chilled or at room temperature. It’s a fabulous side dish for your taco night. Enjoy!
FAQ for Easy Mexican Coleslaw Recipe
Can I Prep This Coleslaw Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the coleslaw a day in advance. Just mix the veggies and dressing separately, then combine them right before serving to maintain that crisp texture!
What Can I Use Instead of Mayonnaise?
If you want a lighter option or prefer something dairy-free, you can substitute the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or avocado. Both will add creaminess without compromising flavor.
How Long Will Leftovers Last in the Fridge?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep in mind that the longer it sits, the softer the veggies may become.
Can I Customize the Veggies in This Coleslaw?
Yes! This recipe is very flexible. Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables like sliced radishes, jicama, or even diced tomatoes. Just keep the proportions roughly the same for balance.
