Mexican Street Corn Coleslaw (Elote-Inspired Creamy & Crunchy Salad)

If you love the bold, tangy flavors of Mexican street corn (elote), you’re going to be obsessed with this Mexican Street Corn Coleslaw. It combines crisp cabbage with sweet corn, creamy dressing, lime, chili, and cotija cheese for a fresh, crunchy side dish that’s perfect for tacos, BBQ, and summer cookouts.

This elote-style coleslaw is quick to make and bursting with flavor in every bite.

🌽 Why You’ll Love This Coleslaw

• Inspired by classic Mexican street corn

• Creamy, tangy, and crunchy

• Perfect for tacos, burgers, and grilled meats

• Ready in 15 minutes

• Great for potlucks and meal prep

🛒 Ingredients

For the Slaw

• 3 cups shredded green cabbage

• 1 cup shredded purple cabbage

• 1½ cups corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or grilled)

• ¼ cup chopped cilantro

For the Dressing

• ½ cup mayonnaise

• 2 tbsp sour cream or Mexican crema

• Juice of 1 lime

• ½ tsp chili powder

• ¼ tsp smoked paprika

• Salt & black pepper, to taste

Toppings

• ¼ cup crumbled cotija or feta cheese

👩‍🍳 Instructions

Step 1: Make the Dressing

In a bowl, whisk together mayo, sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.

Step 2: Toss the Slaw

Add cabbage, corn, and cilantro to a large bowl. Pour dressing over and toss until evenly coated.

Step 3: Finish

Sprinkle with cotija cheese. Chill 10 minutes before serving for best flavor.

🥗 Serving Suggestions

Serve with:

• Tacos, quesadillas, or burritos

• Grilled chicken, steak, or shrimp

• BBQ ribs or pulled pork

• As a topping for fish tacos