Description

A vibrant and zesty side dish featuring crisp cabbage, sweet corn, and spicy jalapeños tossed in a creamy, tangy dressing. This Spicy Jalapeño Corn Coleslaw offers a perfect balance of heat and freshness, ideal for BBQs, tacos, or as a standalone meal with optional added protein.

Ingredients

Scale

8 cups shredded green cabbage (or a mix of green and purple cabbage)
2 cups corn kernels (fresh, boiled, grilled, canned, or frozen)
2 fresh jalapeños, finely minced (seeds and membranes removed for less heat)
½ cup sliced green onions
½ cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
¾ cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt)
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard (or yellow mustard)
2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
1–2 teaspoons sugar (optional)
1 teaspoon celery seeds
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Optional Protein: 500 g grilled chicken breast or thighs, sliced thinly, or 500 g grilled beef steak, sliced thinly

Instructions

Prepare the Vegetable Base: Place shredded cabbage in a large mixing bowl. Add corn kernels, minced jalapeños, sliced green onions, and chopped cilantro. Toss lightly to combine.
Make the Dressing: In a separate bowl, combine mayonnaise, mustard, lime juice, sugar, and celery seeds. Whisk until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Combine Slaw and Dressing: Pour the dressing evenly over the vegetable mixture. Toss thoroughly until all ingredients are coated.
Add Protein (Optional): Arrange slices of chicken or beef over the slaw, or gently fold them in.
Chill Before Serving: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

Notes

For a milder slaw, remove seeds and membranes from jalapeños.
Using grilled corn adds a smoky sweetness.
To maintain crunch, mix the dressing just before serving if making ahead.
Chicken, beef, shrimp, or tofu can be used as optional protein.
For a tangier dressing, replace half the mayonnaise with sour cream.
Lemon juice can be used instead of lime juice.
Store vegetables and dressing separately if making ahead.
Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Category: Side Dish
Method: Mixing and Chilling
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving (approx. 1/8th of recipe)

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