Go Back
An overhead view of a vibrant Cowboy Coleslaw in a serving bowl, highlighting the colorful mix of cabbage, corn, and beans.

Cowboy Coleslaw: The Best Zesty & Creamy Recipe

A vibrant and zesty Cowboy Coleslaw packed with black beans, corn, and a creamy chipotle-lime dressing. This easy recipe is the perfect side dish for any BBQ, potluck, or weeknight dinner.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: American, Tex-Mex
Calories: 185
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Slaw
  • 14 oz bag of coleslaw mix Or about 6 cups of shredded cabbage and carrots
  • 15 oz can black beans Rinsed and drained
  • 1 cup sweet corn Canned or thawed frozen
  • 1 red bell pepper Finely diced
  • 1/2 red onion Thinly sliced
  • 1 jalapeño Optional, finely minced
  • 1/2 cup fresh cilantro Chopped
For the Creamy Chipotle-Lime Dressing
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/2 cup sour cream Or Greek yogurt
  • 2 tbsp lime juice Freshly squeezed
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tsp chipotle powder Adjust to taste
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp honey Or maple syrup
  • Salt and black pepper To taste

Equipment

  • 1 Large Bowl
  • 1 Medium Bowl
  • 1 Whisk

Method
 

  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, apple cider vinegar, chipotle powder, garlic powder, and honey. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.
  2. In a large bowl, add the coleslaw mix, rinsed black beans, corn, diced red bell pepper, sliced red onion, minced jalapeño (if using), and chopped cilantro.
  3. Pour the prepared dressing over the slaw mixture. Use tongs or a large spoon to toss everything together until the slaw is evenly coated.
  4. For the best flavor, cover the bowl and refrigerate the Cowboy Coleslaw for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together.

Notes

Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare the dressing and chop the vegetables up to 2 days in advance. Store them in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator and combine just before serving.
Storage: Store leftover coleslaw in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.