Name: Layered Mexican Coleslaw Salad
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 2 cups green cabbage, shredded; 1 cup purple cabbage, shredded; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cup corn ((fresh, canned, or roasted)); 1/2 piece red bell pepper, diced; 1/2 piece yellow bell pepper, diced; 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; 1 piece jalapeño, finely diced (optional) (Recommended for a kick!); 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 2 tablespoons sour cream; 1 tablespoon lime juice; 1/2 teaspoon cumin; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; to taste salt and pepper

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With a Crunch and a Kick: The Perfect Coleslaw Salad

There’s something about a vibrant coleslaw salad that instantly brings back memories of sunny picnics and backyard barbecues. This Layered Mexican Coleslaw Salad is my go-to for those occasions where I want something fresh, flavorful, and just a little unexpected. It seamlessly melds the crunchy texture of green and purple cabbages with the sweetness of corn and a zesty dressing, making it a perfect side dish for gatherings or a delightful main course for lunch. Whether you’re enjoying it during taco night or serving it at a summer barbecue, this dish brings a dash of color and a burst of flavor to any table.

Why You’ll Love This Dish

What makes this Layered Mexican Coleslaw Salad truly stand out is its versatility and ease of preparation. It’s not just another salad; it’s a fiesta of flavors that can be whipped up in no time. Perfect for busy weekdays or last-minute gatherings, this dish is both budget-friendly and satisfying. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in those extra veggies, appealing to both kids and adults alike.

“I made this for a friend’s barbecue, and everyone raved about it! It’s fresh, crunchy, and the dressing is just perfect!” – Jamie S.

How This Recipe Comes Together

This salad is a breeze to put together. The first step involves making a creamy dressing that pairs beautifully with the fresh vegetables. Next, you’ll layer all the colorful ingredients in a bowl. Lastly, let it chill for a bit to enhance the flavors. It’s a simple process that guarantees a festive dish ready in less than an hour!

What You’ll Need

Gather these items for your Layered Mexican Coleslaw Salad:

Cabbages: 2 cups green cabbage, shredded and 1 cup purple cabbage, shredded
Vegetables: 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved, 1 cup corn (you can use fresh, canned, or roasted), 1/2 red bell pepper, diced, and 1/2 yellow bell pepper, diced
Aromatics: 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped, and 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
Spice it up: 1 jalapeño, finely diced (optional, but recommended for a kick!)
Creamy dressing: 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 2 tbsp sour cream, 1 tbsp lime juice, 1/2 tsp cumin, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, salt and pepper to taste

Feel free to swap out veggies based on what you have on hand. You can substitute Greek yogurt for a healthier option or leave out the jalapeño for a milder flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
Layer the Goodness: In a large bowl, layer the shredded green cabbage, purple cabbage, corn, diced red and yellow bell peppers, halved cherry tomatoes, finely chopped red onion, diced jalapeño, and cilantro.
Combine: Pour the dressing over the top of the layered ingredients. Gently mix everything until evenly coated.
Chill: Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the delicious flavors meld together.

How to Plate and Pair

When it comes to serving your Layered Mexican Coleslaw Salad, think bright colors and fresh flavors. Serve it in a large bowl as a centerpiece for your BBQ or in individual cups for a fun picnic-style presentation.

Pair it with grilled meats like chicken or shrimp or serve alongside spicy tacos. You can also enjoy it with crispy tortilla chips for a fun crunch!

Keeping Leftovers Fresh

After you’ve made this flavorful salad, you might be wondering how to store it. Here are some tips to keep your coleslaw fresh:

Refrigerate: Place leftovers in an airtight container and store them in the fridge. They should be good for about 2-3 days.
Safety First: Since this salad contains mayonnaise, be mindful of food safety. Always return leftovers to the fridge promptly and avoid leaving them out for more than two hours.
Freezing Tip: While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can also freeze the un-dressed veggies if you plan on saving them for later. Just make sure to thaw and dress them before serving!

Pro Chef Tips

Texture Matters: Shredding the cabbage evenly allows for a more uniform texture and ensures that every bite is full of flavor.
Let It Chill: Waiting at least 30 minutes before serving is crucial. This chilling period not only enhances the flavors but also allows the vegetables to soften slightly, making for a more delightful crunch.
Think Ahead: If you know you’ll be serving a crowd, consider doubling the recipe. This salad works wonders for large gatherings!

Creative Twists

Feeling adventurous? Here are some creative ways to put your spin on this Layered Mexican Coleslaw Salad:

Add Protein: Toss in some shredded chicken or black beans to make it a heartier meal.
Spicy Variation: For heat lovers, try adding minced chipotle peppers in adobo sauce for a smoky twist.
Herb Infusion: Experiment with other fresh herbs like parsley or dill to bring a new flavor profile to the dish.

FAQs

What’s the prep time for this salad?

The total prep time is around 15-20 minutes, with an additional chill time of 30 minutes.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can make the salad a few hours in advance, but I recommend adding the dressing right before serving to maintain the crunch of the vegetables.

How can I adjust this recipe for dietary restrictions?

To make it dairy-free, consider using a vegan mayonnaise and yogurt substitute. For gluten-free, simply ensure your ingredients are certified gluten-free.

This Layered Mexican Coleslaw Salad is not just a recipe; it’s a celebration of flavors and colors that can brighten any meal. With its fresh ingredients and creamy dressing, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy the crunch!