Grilled Corn and Red Cabbage Slaw

Elevate Your BBQ Game with Grilled Corn and Red Cabbage Slaw

Looking for a fresh and vibrant side dish to accompany your summer grilling? Look no further than this flavorful Grilled Corn and Red Cabbage Slaw. Bursting with colors and flavors, this dish combines the smoky sweetness of grilled corn with the crispness of red cabbage, all tossed in a zesty lime-cilantro dressing. Whether you’re firing up the grill for a backyard barbecue or simply craving a healthy and delicious salad, this recipe is sure to impress. Join us as we dive into the details of making this mouthwatering dish, along with some handy tips, variations, and keto-friendly options.

Ingredients:

Produce:

  • 1/2 cup Cilantro, chopped
  • 1 Jalapeno pepper, seeded and finely diced
  • 1 Lime, juiced
  • 1/2 head Red cabbage, thinly sliced
  • 2 ears Sweet corn, husks removed

Baking & Spices:

  • Ground black pepper, to taste
  • Pinch of salt

Oils & Vinegars:

  • 1 tbsp Olive oil

Nuts & Seeds:

  • 1/2 tsp Ground cumin

Dairy:

  • 1/4 cup Queso fresco, crumbled

Instructions:

  1. Preheat Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
  2. Grill Corn: Brush the ears of corn with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Place the corn on the preheated grill and cook, turning occasionally, until charred in spots and tender, about 10-12 minutes. Remove from the grill and let cool slightly.
  3. Prepare Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, ground cumin, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
  4. Slice Corn Kernels: Once the corn has cooled, stand each ear upright on a cutting board and use a sharp knife to carefully slice off the kernels.
  5. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced red cabbage, grilled corn kernels, chopped cilantro, and diced jalapeno.
  6. Toss with Dressing: Pour the prepared dressing over the cabbage and corn mixture. Toss until everything is evenly coated in the dressing.
  7. Chill: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
  8. Serve: Before serving, give the slaw a final toss and sprinkle the crumbled queso fresco on top. Serve chilled and enjoy!

Cook Notes and Variations:

  • Add Protein: For a heartier dish, add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu to the slaw. Simply marinate the protein in your favorite spices and grill until cooked through, then slice and serve over the prepared slaw.
  • Extra Crunch: For added texture, toss in some toasted pumpkin seeds or chopped almonds before serving.
  • Spice Level: Adjust the heat level of the slaw by increasing or decreasing the amount of jalapeno pepper used. For a milder version, remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapeno before dicing.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions:

For those following a keto or low-carb diet, here are some simple modifications to make this recipe keto-friendly:

  • Swap Sweet Corn: Substitute the sweet corn with grilled or roasted low-carb vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus.
  • Skip the Sweetness: Omit the sweet corn altogether and increase the amount of red cabbage or add in some shredded Brussels sprouts for extra crunch.
  • Choose Full-Fat Cheese: Opt for a full-fat cheese like feta or goat cheese instead of queso fresco for added creaminess without the carbs.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):

Q: Can I make this slaw ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the slaw up to a day in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and toss it again before serving to freshen it up.

Q: Can I grill the corn indoors? A: If you don’t have access to an outdoor grill, you can grill the corn indoors on a stovetop grill pan or under the broiler in your oven.

Q: What can I serve with this slaw? A: This slaw pairs beautifully with grilled meats such as chicken, steak, or fish. It also makes a delicious topping for tacos or quesadillas.

Q: Can I make this slaw dairy-free? A: Yes, simply omit the queso fresco or replace it with a dairy-free alternative such as chopped avocado or toasted nuts.

Grilled Corn and Red Cabbage Slaw is the perfect combination of smoky, sweet, and tangy flavors that will take your summer meals to the next level. With its vibrant colors and refreshing taste, this slaw is a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or simply looking for a healthy side dish to accompany your meal, this recipe is sure to satisfy. So fire up the grill, grab your ingredients, and get ready to indulge in this delicious and nutritious slaw!