The Zesty Jalapeno Corn Coleslaw Recipe Everyone Will Love

Jalapeno corn coleslaw brings a zesty twist to traditional summer side dishes, enhanceing ordinary gatherings into memorable culinary experiences.

Crisp vegetables mingle with sweet corn kernels, creating a vibrant palette of textures and flavors that dance across your palate.

Spicy jalapeño peppers weave through the creamy dressing, adding a bold kick that elevates this classic recipe from ordinary to extraordinary.

Fresh ingredients play a crucial role in making this dish sing with brightness and energy.

Each bite promises a delightful combination of crunch, heat, and subtle sweetness that keeps people coming back for more.

The magic happens when simple components merge into something unexpectedly delicious and crowd-pleasing.

Regional cookouts and backyard barbecues will never be the same after you introduce this game-changing side dish.

Reasons Jalapeno Corn Coleslaw Steals the Spotlight

• Zesty Flavor Explosion: Bursting with tangy lime, spicy jalapenos, and sweet corn, this coleslaw delivers a taste adventure that dances across your palate with every bite.
• Texture Perfection: Crisp cabbage provides a satisfying crunch, while juicy corn kernels and creamy dressing create a delightful contrast that makes each mouthful exciting and interesting.
• Quick and Simple Preparation: Whip up this vibrant side dish in just minutes, requiring minimal cooking skills and basic ingredients that come together effortlessly for a crowd-pleasing result.
• Versatile Summer Companion: Perfect for backyard barbecues, picnics, and potlucks, this zesty coleslaw complements grilled meats, adds excitement to sandwiches, and brings a fresh twist to classic summer meals.

What You Need for Jalapeno Corn Coleslaw

• Cabbage: Crisp base for the coleslaw, providing a crunchy texture and mild flavor.
• Corn: Sweet kernels that add bright color and fresh summer taste.
• Jalapeno: Spicy pepper that brings heat and zesty kick to the dish.
• Cilantro: Aromatic herb with a fresh, citrusy note that enhances overall flavor.
• Green Onions: Mild onion flavor that adds a subtle sharpness and green color.

• Mayonnaise: Rich and creamy base that binds the dressing together.
• Dijon Mustard: Tangy condiment that adds depth and complexity to the dressing.
• Lime Juice: Bright citrus that provides acidity and balances the creamy elements.

• Sugar: Balances the tangy and spicy flavors with a touch of sweetness.
• Celery Seeds: Adds a subtle, earthy undertone and classic coleslaw flavor.
• Kosher Salt: Enhances and brings out the natural flavors of all ingredients.

How to Make Jalapeno Corn Coleslaw Step by Step

Step 1: Chop and Combine Vegetables

Finely mince the jalapeno pepper, chop cilantro, and slice green onions.

• Shredded cabbage
• Corn kernels
• Minced jalapeno
• Chopped cilantro
• Sliced green onions

Mix ingredients until well distributed.

Step 2: Create Creamy Flavor-Packed Dressing

• Mayonnaise
• Sugar
• Dijon mustard
• Fresh lime juice
• Celery seeds
• Kosher salt

Blend until smooth and creamy.

Step 3: Dress and Toss Coleslaw

Pour the dressing over the vegetable mixture.

Gently toss everything together, ensuring each piece gets coated with the tangy dressing.

Step 4: Chill and Serve

Refrigerate the coleslaw for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld.

Serve cold as a refreshing side dish or summer salad.

Optional: Garnish with extra cilantro or a sprinkle of black pepper before serving.

Tips to Nail Jalapeno Corn Coleslaw Every Time

• Seed Jalapenos Carefully: Remove seeds and membranes to control heat level and prevent overwhelming spiciness in the coleslaw.
• Crisp Cabbage Technique: Slice cabbage thinly and pat dry with paper towels to maintain a crunchy texture and prevent watery slaw.
• Maximize Flavor Depth: Let the coleslaw rest in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before serving to allow ingredients to meld and develop richer taste.
• Fresh Corn Selection: Use fresh corn kernels for the best sweet and juicy flavor, or quickly grill corn before cutting for added smoky notes.
• Customize Heat Level: Adjust jalapeno quantity based on personal spice preference, starting with half the amount and tasting before adding more.

Store Jalapeno Corn Coleslaw Without Losing Freshness

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days, keeping the coleslaw crisp and fresh.
• Drain Excess Liquid: Before storing, gently pat the slaw with paper towels to remove moisture and prevent sogginess.
• Revive Texture: When ready to serve again, give the coleslaw a quick stir and add a sprinkle of fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime to brighten the flavors.

Pairing Ideas for Jalapeno Corn Coleslaw

• Spice Up with Mexican Cerveza: Pair this zesty jalapeno corn coleslaw with a crisp Mexican beer like Corona or Modelo Especial. The light, refreshing brew cuts through the creamy dressing and complements the spicy jalapeno kick.
• Grill Perfect Sidekick: Serve alongside grilled chicken, pulled pork, or fish tacos. The cool, crunchy slaw provides a fresh contrast to smoky, charred meats and adds a bright, tangy element to your meal.
• Southwest-Style Sandwich Match: Layer this coleslaw inside pulled pork sandwiches or on top of grilled southwest chicken burgers. The creamy texture and spicy notes elevate the sandwich experience with a delightful crunch and zesty flavor profile.
• Picnic and Potluck Star: Bring this versatile slaw to summer gatherings. Its bold flavors and easy preparation make it a crowd-pleasing side dish that stands out at barbecues, picnics, and potluck events.

Fun Twists on Jalapeno Corn Coleslaw

• Spicy Southwest Slaw: Swap cilantro for chopped bell peppers and add black beans for a hearty Tex-Mex inspired version.
• Creamy Greek Coleslaw: Replace mayonnaise with Greek yogurt, add crumbled feta cheese, and sprinkle dried oregano for a Mediterranean touch.
• Tropical Summer Slaw: Mix in diced mango, substitute lime juice with orange juice, and garnish with toasted coconut flakes for a refreshing island-style coleslaw.
• Herb Garden Fusion: Incorporate fresh dill, parsley, and chives instead of cilantro, and use apple cider vinegar for a bright, herbal flavor profile.

Jalapeno Corn Coleslaw Recipe

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4.8 from 19 reviews

• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: 8 1x

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Description

Spicy Jalapeño Corn Coleslaw delivers a zesty southwestern twist on classic summer salad. Fresh crunchy veggies mingle with sweet corn and fiery peppers, creating a mouthwatering side dish you’ll crave at every barbecue and picnic.

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Ingredients

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Vegetables:

• 8 cups shredded Napa or green cabbage
• 3 ears fresh corn (about 2 cups)
• ½ large jalapeno, minced (about ¼ cup)
• ½ bunch fresh cilantro, finely chopped (about ½ cup)
• 2 green onions, sliced thin (about ¼ cup)

Dressing Ingredients:

• ¾ cup mayonnaise
• 3 tablespoons sugar
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice

Seasonings:

• 1 teaspoon celery seeds
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt

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Instructions

1. Finely shred crisp cabbage and place in a spacious mixing vessel, creating a vibrant base for the refreshing slaw.
2. Add sweet corn kernels, providing a delightful textural contrast and natural sweetness to the salad.
3. Incorporate finely chopped jalapenos for a zesty kick, ensuring even distribution throughout the mixture.
4. Sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro and sliced green onions to enhance the salad’s aromatic profile and color.
5. Prepare the creamy dressing by whisking mayonnaise with a touch of sugar, creating a smooth and balanced foundation.
6. Blend Dijon mustard into the dressing, introducing a subtle tangy undertone that complements the vegetables.
7. Squeeze fresh lime juice to brighten the dressing and add a citrusy dimension to the overall flavor.
8. Incorporate celery seeds and kosher salt to elevate the seasoning and provide depth to the dressing.
9. Gently pour the prepared dressing over the vegetable mixture, carefully folding to ensure each ingredient is evenly coated.
10. Allow the slaw to marinate for optimal flavor melding, or serve immediately for a crisp and vibrant side dish.

Notes

• Customize the heat level by removing jalapeno seeds for a milder version or adding more for extra spiciness.
• Freshness matters, so use crisp cabbage and sweet corn kernels for the best texture and flavor.
• Make ahead and let the coleslaw chill for 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld and develop deeper taste.
• Great as a side dish for barbecues, tacos, or grilled meats, adding a zesty crunch to any meal.
• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days, though best enjoyed within 24 hours.
• Swap mayo with Greek yogurt for a lighter, tangier alternative that boosts protein content.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Appetizer, Snacks
• Method: Blending
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 8
• Calories: 200
• Sugar: 6 g
• Sodium: 150 mg
• Fat: 16 g
• Saturated Fat: 2 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 18 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 2 g
• Cholesterol: 10 mg