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Zesty Spicy Corn Slaw

zesty spicy corn slaw - featured image

A quick and easy crunchy veggie salad with fresh corn, vibrant veggies, and a tangy, spicy dressing. Ready in under 5 minutes, perfect as a side or light lunch.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups fresh corn kernels (about 3 ears), fresh or thawed from frozen
  • 2 cups green cabbage, finely shredded
  • 1 medium red bell pepper, diced small
  • 1 large carrot, shredded
  • 3 stalks green onions, sliced thin
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
  • 1 small jalapeño pepper, finely chopped (adjust to taste, seeds removed for milder heat)
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
  • 1 teaspoon honey
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Prep the veggies: Remove kernels from corn cobs by slicing downward with a sharp knife. Finely shred the green cabbage and carrots using a grater or food processor. Dice the red bell pepper and finely chop the jalapeño (remove seeds if preferred). Slice green onions thinly and chop cilantro.
  2. Mix the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, lime juice, honey, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as desired.
  3. Toss everything together: In a large mixing bowl, combine corn, cabbage, carrots, bell pepper, green onions, cilantro, and jalapeño. Pour the dressing over and toss gently until evenly coated.
  4. Rest for flavor (optional): Refrigerate the slaw for 10-15 minutes to allow flavors to meld and soften the cabbage slightly while maintaining crunch.
  5. Final taste check: Stir the slaw again before serving and adjust salt or lime juice if needed.

Notes

Wear gloves or wash hands thoroughly after chopping jalapeño to avoid irritation. Use fresh lime juice for best brightness. For best crunch, do not overdress the slaw. Letting it rest in the fridge for 10-15 minutes enhances flavor. Dressing can be made ahead and tossed just before serving to keep veggies crisp.

Nutrition

Keywords: corn slaw, spicy corn salad, crunchy veggie salad, quick side dish, easy slaw recipe, summer salad, gluten-free, dairy-free option