This Cowboy Coleslaw is a fun twist on the classic. It’s packed with crunchy cabbage, colorful carrots, and zesty flavors that give it a bit of a kick!
I love how easy it is to whip up. Just toss everything together, and it’s a perfect side for barbecues. It’s like a party in a bowl! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Green and Purple Cabbage: These are the stars of the show! They add crunch and color. If you can’t find purple cabbage, you can use more green cabbage or add red cabbage for color.
Jalapeño: Adds a nice kick! Prefer less heat? Remove the seeds and ribs, or swap for a milder pepper like a bell pepper or even a bit of finely chopped green onion.
Black Beans: They contribute protein and texture. For a different flavor, try using kidney beans or even chickpeas.
Cheddar Cheese: I love using sharp cheddar for extra flavor. Feel free to swap it with Monterey Jack or leave it out for a dairy-free option.
How Do I Make Sure My Coleslaw Stays Crunchy?
A common struggle is keeping coleslaw crunchy rather than soggy. Here are some tips to keep your coleslaw crisp:
- Use fresh vegetables and chop them just before mixing.
- Allow the slaw to chill in the fridge for a minimum of 30 minutes, which will help the flavors meld without making it soggy.
- Serve the dressing on the side for guests to add to their liking, keeping everything fresh longer.
How to Make Cowboy Coleslaw
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Slaw:
- 4 cups shredded green cabbage
- 2 cups shredded purple cabbage
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 jalapeño pepper, thinly sliced (seeds removed if desired for less heat)
For the Dressing:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 tablespoon honey or sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (plus more for garnish)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Cowboy Coleslaw will take about 15 minutes of prep time and an additional 30 minutes chilling in the fridge, giving you a total of about 45 minutes before serving.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Veggies:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded green cabbage, purple cabbage, and shredded carrots. This colorful mix will be the base of your coleslaw!
2. Add Cheese and Beans:
Next, add in the shredded cheddar cheese and the black beans. They’ll add protein and a nice contrast of flavors.
3. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, lime juice, honey, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
4. Combine Everything:
Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss everything together thoroughly to coat all the veggies evenly with the delicious dressing.
5. Add Some Heat:
Gently fold in the sliced jalapeño peppers for a bit of spice—adjust according to your taste preference.
6. Garnish and Chill:
For a finishing touch, sprinkle some smoked paprika over the top and any additional jalapeño slices. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This chilling step helps all the flavors meld together.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once chilled, give it one last stir and serve it cold as a tasty side dish alongside your favorite grilled meats or at your next barbecue. Enjoy the crunch and flavor!
This Cowboy Coleslaw blends creamy, tangy dressing with smoky spices and fresh veggies, delivering a bold and satisfying twist on traditional coleslaw. Perfect for any gathering!
Can I Use Different Types of Cabbage?
Absolutely! You can use any type of cabbage you prefer. If you can’t find purple cabbage, you can simply use more green cabbage or substitute it with red cabbage for added color.
Can I Make This Coleslaw Vegetarian or Vegan?
Yes! To make it vegetarian, just ensure your mayonnaise is egg-free, or you can substitute it with a vegan mayo. For a fully vegan option, replace honey with agave syrup or maple syrup!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftover coleslaw can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The texture may change slightly due to the dressing, but it should still be tasty!
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can prepare the coleslaw a day in advance; just keep it refrigerated. However, for the best texture, you might want to add the dressing a few hours before serving.