If you’re looking for a zesty, flavorful side that instantly lifts any meal, this Spicy Jalapeno Coleslaw Recipe is a total game-changer. Laden with crisp green and purple cabbage, fresh carrots, and just the right amount of kick from minced jalapenos, this coleslaw blends creamy, spicy, and tangy notes in perfect harmony. It’s the kind of dish that pairs beautifully with grilled meats or can stand on its own as a vibrant salad that wakes up your taste buds. Getting this coleslaw ready is simple, yet the layers of flavor will have your friends asking for the recipe again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients for this Spicy Jalapeno Coleslaw Recipe is both easy and rewarding. Each component plays a key role, from the crunchy cabbages and sweet carrots providing texture and color, to the spicy jalapenos adding a thrilling punch that sets this coleslaw apart.
- 1/2 small head green cabbage, shredded (about 3 cups): Offers a crunchy, mild base that’s classic in coleslaw.
- 1 cup purple cabbage, shredded: Adds vibrant color and a slightly earthier flavor for balance.
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced: Lends a sharp, aromatic bite that complements the creamy dressing.
- 1 cup carrots, matchstick cut: Brings sweetness and a satisfying crunch.
- 2 jalapenos, seeded and minced: The star ingredient that infuses the coleslaw with a fiery, fresh heat.
- 3 green onions, thinly sliced (green parts only): Imparts a mild onion flavor with a hint of freshness.
- 1 small bunch cilantro, chopped: Adds a bright, herbal note that elevates the entire dish.
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise: Provides a creamy, rich texture that binds the ingredients together.
- 3 tablespoons spicy brown mustard: Gives a tangy depth and slight heat to the dressing.
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar: Balances the creaminess with a sharp, acidic kick.
- 2 tablespoons sugar: Smooths out the flavors with subtle sweetness.
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder: Adds concentrated, savory onion flavor.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the tastes, bringing harmony to the dish.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Introduces a gentle spice that rounds out the flavor.
How to Make Spicy Jalapeno Coleslaw Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Veggies
Start by grabbing a sharp knife and carefully shredding the green and purple cabbage, slicing the red onion thinly, and matchstick cutting the carrots. Don’t forget to mince the jalapenos — removing the seeds if you prefer a milder heat — and slice the green onions. Toss everything into a large bowl along with the chopped cilantro. The combination of vibrant colors and textures at this stage already makes you want to dig in.
Step 2: Whip Up the Dressing
In a smaller bowl, mix the mayonnaise, spicy brown mustard, white vinegar, sugar, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until smooth and well combined. This dressing is where all those bold flavors meld together, giving your Spicy Jalapeno Coleslaw Recipe its signature creamy, tangy, and slightly spicy goodness.
Step 3: Combine and Toss
Pour the freshly made dressing over the big bowl of veggies, then toss everything gently but thoroughly. Make sure the dressing coats every crunchy piece so you get a perfect balance of flavor in every bite.
Step 4: Chill for the Best Flavor
Pop your coleslaw into the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving. This chilling step is key because it allows the flavors to marry and the jalapenos to infuse the crisp vegetables with their delightful kick, making the coleslaw even more delicious.
How to Serve Spicy Jalapeno Coleslaw Recipe
Garnishes
To make your serving extra special, sprinkle a few fresh cilantro leaves or a couple of thinly sliced jalapenos on top before plating. This not only boosts the visual appeal but also gives a fresh burst of flavor right at the first forkful.
Side Dishes
This coleslaw pairs brilliantly with a range of dishes. It’s a fantastic side for grilled chicken, pulled pork sandwiches, tacos, or even fish. The creamy, spicy, and crunchy elements provide a refreshing contrast to smoky or rich proteins.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress guests? Serve the Spicy Jalapeno Coleslaw Recipe inside hollowed out mini bell peppers or create individual lettuce cups filled with the coleslaw for a fun, handheld appetizer. It also works beautifully as a topping on burgers or hot dogs, adding that perfect spicy crunch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, no worries! Store your coleslaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and tasty for up to 3 days. The flavors often deepen overnight, making it even better the next day.
Freezing
Because of the crunchy veggies and creamy dressing, freezing is not recommended for this Spicy Jalapeno Coleslaw Recipe. Freezing would ruin the texture, leaving you with a soggy, watery coleslaw upon thawing.
Reheating
This coleslaw is best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, so reheating is unnecessary. Just give it a quick stir before serving if it’s been sitting in the fridge a while to refresh the flavors and texture.
FAQs
Can I adjust the spice level?
Absolutely! The heat from jalapenos can be intense for some. You can remove the seeds for a milder taste or add extra jalapenos if you love that fiery kick. Always taste and adjust according to your heat preference.
Is this coleslaw vegan friendly?
As is, this recipe uses mayonnaise, which often contains eggs. To make it vegan, substitute with a plant-based mayo and check the spicy brown mustard ingredients for any animal-derived products.
Can I use pre-shredded veggies?
Yes, pre-shredded cabbage and carrots can save time and work well here. Just be sure they are fresh and crisp for the best texture in your Spicy Jalapeno Coleslaw Recipe.
How long in advance can I prepare this coleslaw?
It’s best prepared up to a day before serving. This timing allows the flavors to fully develop, but beyond 24 hours some veggies might start losing their crunch.
What’s a great alternative to cilantro?
If you’re not a fan of cilantro, try fresh parsley or even chopped fresh basil for a different but delicious herbal twist that complements the spicy and creamy nature of this coleslaw.
Final Thoughts
This Spicy Jalapeno Coleslaw Recipe is one of those delightful dishes that bring big flavors with very little fuss. It’s vibrant, creamy, and has just the right amount of heat to perk up any meal. I hope you give it a try soon — once you do, it’s bound to become a staple in your kitchen just like it is in mine!
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Spicy Jalapeno Coleslaw Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A vibrant and spicy Jalapeno Coleslaw that combines shredded green and purple cabbage with fresh vegetables and a creamy, tangy dressing enhanced by the kick of jalapenos. Perfect as a refreshing side dish to complement grilled meats or sandwiches.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1/2 small head of green cabbage, shredded (about 3 cups)
- 1 cup purple cabbage, shredded
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup carrots, matchstick cut
- 2 jalapenos, seeded and minced
- 3 green onions, thinly sliced (green parts only)
- 1 small bunch cilantro, chopped
Dressing
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 3 tablespoons spicy brown mustard
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Prep Vegetables: Use a sharp knife to finely shred the green cabbage and purple cabbage. Thinly slice the red onion and matchstick cut the carrots. Seed and mince the jalapenos, and thinly slice the green parts of the green onions. Chop the cilantro, then place all these prepared vegetables into a large bowl.
- Make Dressing: In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, spicy brown mustard, white vinegar, sugar, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Whisk thoroughly to create a smooth, creamy dressing.
- Combine and Toss: Pour the prepared dressing over the bowl of shredded and chopped vegetables. Toss everything together gently but thoroughly to ensure that all the vegetables are evenly coated with the flavorful dressing.
- Chill: Cover the coleslaw and place it in the refrigerator to chill for at least 30 minutes before serving. This resting time allows the flavors to meld and the cabbage to slightly soften, enhancing the overall taste and texture.
Notes
- Adjust the number of jalapenos according to your desired spice level.
- For a lighter version, substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.
- Chill longer for a more developed flavor.
- Serve as a side dish with grilled meats, tacos, or sandwiches.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
