Cowboy coleslaw is the kind of dish that brings sunshine to your table, no matter the season. This vibrant and refreshing salad combines the crunchy goodness of coleslaw mix with protein-packed black beans and sweet corn, all brought together with a creamy, zesty dressing. It’s perfect for summer BBQs, potlucks, or even just a cozy dinner at home. The best part? Its bold flavors and delightful textures make it a hit with both kids and adults alike.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You’re in for a treat with this dish! It’s not just delicious; it’s a quick and easy option that packs a satisfying crunch and a fiesta of flavors. The combination of creaminess from the dressing and the crunch from fresh vegetables makes every bite a joy. Plus, it’s budget-friendly and can easily serve a crowd, making it a perfect choice for any gathering.
"This cowboy coleslaw was a hit at our family gathering! Everyone loved the flavors, and I loved how easy it was to whip up!"
How to Make Cowboy Coleslaw
Creating this cowboy coleslaw is a breeze. In just a few simple steps, you’ll bring together a hearty mix of vegetables, beans, and a creamy dressing that’ll elevate your meal. It’s all about tossing, whisking, and mixing, making it perfect for both the novice cook and the seasoned chef.
Ingredients
1 (16-ounce) package shredded coleslaw mix
1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed (about 1 3/4 cup)
1 1/2 cups frozen corn, thawed and drained, divided (from 1[10-ounce] bag)
1 cup finely chopped red bell pepper (from 1 small [8-ounce] pepper)
1/2 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
1/4 cup seeded and finely chopped jalapeño chile (from 1 medium TK ounce jalapeño)
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/2 cup sour cream
1/4 cup fresh lime juice (from 2 medium limes)
3 tablespoons canned adobo sauce
1 tablespoon taco seasoning mix (from 1[1.25-ounce] envelope)
2 teaspoons kosher salt
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1/4 cup thinly sliced scallions (from TK scallions)
Lime wedges, for serving
For substitutions, consider using Greek yogurt in place of sour cream for a lighter version, or swap out black beans for kidney or pinto beans if you prefer.
Directions
- Gather all your ingredients for easy access.
- In a large bowl, combine the coleslaw mix, black beans, corn, red bell pepper, cilantro, and jalapeño. Toss until everything is well mixed.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, adobo sauce, taco seasoning, salt, and cumin until you get a smooth blend.
- Pour the creamy dressing over the coleslaw mixture and toss well to coat everything evenly.
- Top with sliced scallions and serve with lime wedges on the side. Enjoy immediately, or cover and refrigerate for up to 12 hours if you’re prepping ahead.
Serving Suggestions
This cowboy coleslaw shines as a side dish but can also be a delightful topping for tacos, pulled pork sandwiches, or even grilled chicken. It adds a refreshing crunch to any meal and pairs beautifully with barbecue foods, burgers, or even fish dishes. For an extra flair, consider adding crushed tortilla chips on top for added crunch and texture.
Storage & Reheating
If you have leftovers (which is rare because it’s so good!), keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they’ll last about 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the coleslaw, but note that the texture may change upon thawing. Just make sure to use it within a month for the best quality. When you’re ready to eat, there’s no need to reheat—simply give it a good stir.
Pro Tips
To elevate this recipe even further, chop your vegetables just before mixing to maximize freshness. If you’re looking to spice things up, consider adding more jalapeño or even a diced chipotle pepper for a smoky flavor. Additionally, preparing the dressing in advance allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making for a more intense taste.
Variations
There are countless ways to put your spin on cowboy coleslaw! Try adding diced avocado for creaminess, or swap out the red bell pepper for other colorful veggies like carrots or green onions. For a sweeter touch, include some diced mango or pineapple. And if you’re looking for a kick, enhance the heat with some hot sauce in the dressing.
FAQs
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! It can be prepared up to 12 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to develop.
What can I use instead of mayonnaise?
Greek yogurt or avocado can be fantastic substitutes for a healthier option without sacrificing creaminess.
How can I make this coleslaw vegetarian or vegan?
For a vegetarian option, simply check the label of your mayonnaise and sour cream. For a vegan take, use plant-based mayo and non-dairy yogurt.
For more delightful summer dishes, check out our guide on quick BBQ sides or dive into our collection of picnic-perfect salads!
Print
Cowboy Coleslaw
- Total Time: 15
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A vibrant and refreshing salad combining crunchy coleslaw mix with black beans and sweet corn in a creamy, zesty dressing.
Ingredients
- 1 (16-ounce) package shredded coleslaw mix
- 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 1/2 cups frozen corn, thawed and drained
- 1 cup finely chopped red bell pepper
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup seeded and finely chopped jalapeño chile
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
- 3 tablespoons canned adobo sauce
- 1 tablespoon taco seasoning mix
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 cup thinly sliced scallions
- Lime wedges, for serving
Instructions
- Gather all your ingredients for easy access.
- In a large bowl, combine the coleslaw mix, black beans, corn, red bell pepper, cilantro, and jalapeño. Toss until everything is well mixed.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, adobo sauce, taco seasoning, salt, and cumin until you get a smooth blend.
- Pour the creamy dressing over the coleslaw mixture and toss well to coat everything evenly.
- Top with sliced scallions and serve with lime wedges on the side. Enjoy immediately, or cover and refrigerate for up to 12 hours if prepping ahead.
Notes
For a lighter version, consider using Greek yogurt instead of sour cream. This coleslaw can be served as a side dish or a topping for tacos and sandwiches.
- Prep Time: 15
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 10mg