Name: Easy Mexican Coleslaw
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter version); ⅔ cup sour cream; 3 tbsp fresh lime juice; 2 tbsp taco seasoning; 1 (16 oz) bag coleslaw mix (tri-color); 1 red bell pepper, diced; 1½ cups grape tomatoes, halved; 1 (15.25 oz) can black beans, drained & rinsed; 1½ cups grilled or blackened corn; 1 jalapeño, seeded & minced; ½ cup fresh cilantro, chopped; Kosher salt & black pepper to taste

There’s nothing quite like a refreshing, crisp, and zesty coleslaw to elevate your meal, and this Easy Mexican Coleslaw does just that. It’s bursting with bold Tex-Mex flavors, fresh vegetables, and a creamy, slightly spicy dressing that ties everything together beautifully. Whether you’re looking for the perfect side dish for tacos, burritos, grilled meats, or BBQ nights, this coleslaw is the ultimate crowd-pleaser.

What makes this recipe stand out is its balance of textures and flavors. The crunchy coleslaw mix, the sweetness of roasted corn, and the richness of black beans create a delightful contrast. The dressing, seasoned with taco spices and a hint of lime, brings a tangy, smoky, and creamy element that takes this dish to another level. Plus, the fresh cilantro and jalapeño add a vibrant kick, making every bite exciting.

One of the best things about this recipe is its simplicity and versatility. You can whip it up in 20 minutes, and it tastes even better when made ahead, making it an ideal dish for meal prep, potlucks, or summer cookouts. It’s also easy to customize—whether you prefer it spicier, lighter, or packed with extra veggies, you can tweak it to suit your taste.

This coleslaw is not just a side dish; it can also be used as a topping for tacos, filling for burritos, or even a fresh salad base. The flavors pair beautifully with grilled chicken, fish, or steak, making it a great addition to any meal. Once you try it, it’s bound to become a staple in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Mexican coleslaw is a must-try for so many reasons. First and foremost, it’s incredibly easy to make. You don’t need to spend hours in the kitchen—just chop, mix, and let the flavors meld together. Even better, it stores well, so you can prepare it in advance and enjoy it later without any hassle.

Another reason to love this recipe is its vibrant flavors and perfect crunch. Unlike traditional creamy coleslaw, which can sometimes feel heavy, this version has a light, tangy, and slightly spicy twist. The lime juice brightens everything up, while the taco seasoning adds a subtle smokiness that complements the sweetness of the corn and bell peppers.

This dish is also nutrient-packed and balanced. It’s loaded with fiber from the black beans, antioxidants from the colorful vegetables, and healthy fats from the creamy dressing. It’s a great way to sneak more veggies into your diet while enjoying a flavorful dish.

Versatility is another major plus. This coleslaw works well in many different meals—you can enjoy it as a simple side dish, layer it inside tacos or wraps, or even add grilled chicken or shrimp on top to turn it into a complete meal. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner, a backyard BBQ, or a potluck, this coleslaw fits right in.

Health Benefits

This Mexican coleslaw isn’t just delicious—it’s packed with nutrients that support overall health. The combination of fresh vegetables, beans, and a well-balanced dressing makes it a healthy choice that provides essential vitamins and minerals.

One of the standout ingredients in this recipe is cabbage, which is an excellent source of fiber, vitamin C, and vitamin K. Fiber is essential for digestive health, while vitamin C helps boost the immune system. The presence of antioxidants in cabbage also helps reduce inflammation in the body.

Another powerhouse ingredient is black beans, which are high in protein and fiber, making this coleslaw more filling and satisfying. Beans also provide complex carbohydrates, which help keep energy levels stable throughout the day. Plus, they contain iron and folate, which are crucial for overall health.

Corn adds a natural sweetness to the coleslaw while providing B vitamins and antioxidants like lutein and zeaxanthin, which support eye health. Meanwhile, the lime juice and jalapeño contribute a burst of flavor while offering additional vitamin C and metabolism-boosting properties.

The creamy dressing, made with mayonnaise and sour cream, provides healthy fats that help the body absorb fat-soluble vitamins from the vegetables. For a lighter version, Greek yogurt can be used instead of sour cream to add protein while keeping the dressing creamy and rich.

Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information

This Easy Mexican Coleslaw comes together in about 20 minutes, making it perfect for those who need a quick and healthy side dish. The recipe makes 6 servings, and each serving is approximately 250 calories.

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 6

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving):

Calories: 250
Protein: 6g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fat: 12g
Fiber: 8g
Sugar: 5g

Ingredients List

To make this flavorful coleslaw, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1 cup mayonnaise (Duke’s preferred)
⅔ cup sour cream (full-fat recommended, or substitute with Greek yogurt)
3 tablespoons fresh lime juice (adjust to taste for more tanginess)
2 tablespoons taco seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
1 (16 oz) bag coleslaw mix (tri-color for more vibrant colors and textures)
1 red bell pepper, diced (adds natural sweetness and crunch)
1½ cups grape tomatoes, halved (for juiciness and extra flavor)
1 (15.25 oz) can black beans, drained & rinsed (provides protein and fiber)
1½ cups grilled or blackened corn (adds sweetness and smoky flavor)
1 jalapeño, seeded & minced (adjust for spice level to your preference)
½ cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for freshness and a classic Mexican taste)
Kosher salt & black pepper to taste

Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions

Prepare the Dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, fresh lime juice, and taco seasoning. Mix well until smooth and fully combined.
Mix the Salad Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, add the coleslaw mix, diced red bell pepper, grape tomatoes, black beans, roasted or grilled corn, minced jalapeño, and chopped cilantro. Toss everything together to evenly distribute the ingredients.
Combine Everything
- Pour the prepared dressing over the vegetable mixture and gently toss everything together until the coleslaw is fully coated with the dressing. Make sure the ingredients are evenly mixed for a consistent flavor.
Season & Adjust Flavors
- Taste the coleslaw and season with salt and black pepper as needed. If you prefer more tanginess, you can add a bit more lime juice. If you want more spice, consider adding extra jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Chill Before Serving
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the coleslaw to an airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Serve & Enjoy
- Once chilled, give the coleslaw a final stir, then serve it as a side dish, taco topping, or a salad base for grilled proteins.

How to Serve

This Mexican coleslaw pairs well with a variety of dishes. Here are some serving ideas:

Serve as a side dish for tacos, burritos, fajitas, or quesadillas.
Add it to grilled chicken or shrimp bowls for extra crunch.
Use it as a topping for BBQ sandwiches, burgers, or hot dogs.
Eat it as a refreshing standalone salad with some tortilla chips.

Pairing Suggestions

This coleslaw goes perfectly with:

Grilled chicken, fish, or shrimp for a balanced meal.
Tacos filled with beef, turkey, or roasted veggies.
Tex-Mex-style rice and beans for a filling side.

Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
It’s not recommended to freeze as the vegetables may become watery.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even though this Mexican coleslaw is incredibly simple to make, a few common mistakes can affect the texture, flavor, and overall success of the dish. Here’s what to watch out for:

Overdressing the Coleslaw
- While the creamy taco-seasoned dressing is delicious, too much of it can make the coleslaw soggy instead of crisp and fresh. Start with about three-quarters of the dressing, mix, and add more only if needed. The cabbage and vegetables will release moisture as they sit, so it’s better to add extra dressing just before serving if necessary.
Not Draining the Black Beans and Corn Properly
- If the beans and corn are not well-drained, they can make the coleslaw watery. Make sure to rinse and drain the black beans thoroughly, and if using canned corn, drain it well before adding it to the mix. For even better texture, roast the corn in a dry skillet to remove extra moisture while adding a delicious smoky flavor.
Skipping the Chill Time
- Allowing the coleslaw to chill for at least 30 minutes is essential for the flavors to meld. Skipping this step can result in a coleslaw where the dressing feels separate from the vegetables rather than infused into them. For even better flavor, you can let it sit for up to 24 hours before serving.
Not Adjusting the Spice Level to Taste
- Jalapeños can vary greatly in heat level. Always taste a small piece before adding the full amount to avoid an overly spicy coleslaw. If you prefer a milder dish, remove the seeds and ribs of the jalapeño, or substitute with a pinch of mild chili powder.
Using Pre-Shredded Coleslaw Without Checking Freshness
- While pre-shredded coleslaw mix is a great time-saver, it can sometimes be dry or overly wilted if not fresh. Always check the expiration date and look for a bag with crisp, vibrant-colored cabbage. If it looks too dry, refresh it by soaking it in ice water for 10 minutes, then drain thoroughly before using.

Pro Tips

To make this Mexican coleslaw even more delicious and foolproof, follow these expert tips:

Use Fresh Lime Juice Instead of Bottled
- Fresh lime juice has a brighter, more authentic flavor compared to bottled juice, which can taste slightly bitter or artificial. For maximum freshness, roll the lime on the countertop before cutting to release the juices more easily.
Toast the Taco Seasoning for More Depth
- If using homemade taco seasoning, lightly toast the spices in a dry pan for 1-2 minutes before adding them to the dressing. This enhances their flavor and gives the coleslaw a more pronounced smoky and warm spice profile.
For a Lighter Version, Use Greek Yogurt
- Swap sour cream for full-fat Greek yogurt to cut down on fat while adding extra protein and probiotics. The dressing will still be creamy but with a slightly tangy, refreshing taste.
Add a Crunchy Topping for Extra Texture
- If you love extra crunch, top the coleslaw with crushed tortilla chips, roasted sunflower seeds, or pumpkin seeds just before serving. This adds a fun contrast in texture and makes the dish even more satisfying.
Double the Batch for Meal Prep
- This coleslaw holds up well in the fridge, making it an excellent choice for meal prepping. If making a large batch, store the dressing separately and mix it in right before eating to keep the vegetables crisp.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this coleslaw ahead of time?
- Yes! It actually tastes better when made a few hours ahead, as it allows the flavors to blend. Store it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before serving.
What can I use instead of mayo in the dressing?
- You can substitute mayo with Greek yogurt for a lighter version or use avocado blended with a little lime juice for a dairy-free alternative.
How can I make this coleslaw spicier?
- Add extra jalapeño, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or hot sauce to the dressing to increase the heat.
Is this coleslaw gluten-free?
- Yes! All the ingredients in this recipe are naturally gluten-free. Just ensure that your taco seasoning doesn’t contain any hidden gluten sources.

Conclusion & Call to Action

This Easy Mexican Coleslaw is a game-changer for anyone who loves bold, fresh flavors with minimal effort. With its vibrant colors, crunchy textures, and tangy, creamy dressing, it’s the perfect side dish for tacos, burritos, grilled meats, and BBQ nights. Plus, it’s highly customizable, allowing you to adjust the spice level, add more crunch, or make it healthier with simple ingredient swaps.

Not only is this coleslaw easy to prepare in just 20 minutes, but it also stores well, making it perfect for meal prep, potlucks, or busy weeknights. The combination of black beans, roasted corn, bell peppers, and a creamy lime-infused dressing creates a balance of flavors that complement a wide variety of dishes.

If you’re looking for a versatile, nutritious, and incredibly delicious side dish, this Mexican coleslaw is the perfect choice. It’s a recipe that’s guaranteed to impress at any gathering and keep you coming back for more.

Now it’s your turn! Try this recipe and let me know how it turns out. Share your photos, tag me on social media, or drop a comment below with your feedback. I’d love to hear how you customized it and what you paired it with.

Happy cooking, and enjoy your flavor-packed Mexican coleslaw!