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Cowboy Cabbage is the ultimate crowd-pleaser for game day or any summer barbeque, transforming simple coleslaw into a crunchy fiesta with bold flavors, beans, and the irresistible addition of Chili Cheese Fritos. Every bite brings together creamy, tangy, spicy, and crunchy elements that keep you coming back for more.
I discovered this salad when I needed something fun and fast for a backyard get-together and ever since my friends ask for Cowboy Cabbage every single time. The Fritos topping always gets a laugh and a big thumbs-up.
Ingredients
- Coleslaw mix sixteen ounce bag: Makes this salad ultra easy and adds a base of crunchy cabbage and carrots
- Black beans canned: Rinse and drain for smooth flavor and hearty protein
- Corn kernels canned: Adds sweet pop and bright color in every bite
- Jalapeño pepper: Choose a medium sized one for balanced heat Remove seeds for less spice or keep a few if you love heat
- Red bell pepper: Look for firm and shiny skin Adds fresh crunch and a splash of color
- Green onions: Sliced thin for sharp and mild onion taste Use both green and white parts
- Fresh cilantro: Fresh and bright Choose bunches with vibrant leaves and no limp stems
- Taco seasoning: Use a good-quality blend to boost flavor without extra effort
- Ground cumin: Adds earthiness and depth that stands out in the dressing
- Chili Cheese Fritos: The star for crunch Choose a fresh bag so the chips stay crisp
- Sour cream: Thick and tangy Creaminess tames the heat from chipotle sauce
- Mayonnaise: Smooth and rich Look for full-fat for the creamiest dressing
- Fresh lime juice: Brings zest and balance Squeeze fresh limes for the brightest flavor
- Chipotle sauce from chipotles in adobo: Find in the Latin foods aisle Adds smoky heat You want just the sauce not the whole peppers
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the Vegetables:
- Chop the jalapeño red bell pepper green onions and cilantro finely. Rinse and drain your black beans and corn. Measure out all the other ingredients so they are ready to mix in.
- Build the Salad Base:
- In a large bowl add coleslaw mix black beans corn jalapeño red bell pepper green onions cilantro taco seasoning and ground cumin. Toss everything thoroughly to make sure the seasoning and veggies are evenly spread.
- Make the Chipotle Dressing:
- In a medium bowl whisk sour cream mayonnaise fresh lime juice and chipotle sauce until the mixture is creamy and smooth This is the backbone of the salad and should taste tangy and just a little spicy.
- Combine and Dress:
- Pour the chipotle dressing over your salad base in the large bowl. Stir gently with a spatula or big spoon so everything is evenly coated but the veggies stay crisp.
- Add Crunch:
- Add most of the Chili Cheese Fritos to the salad and fold gently so the chips are distributed but still hold some crunch. Save a handful for a finishing topping.
- Final Touch:
- Right before serving scatter the reserved Fritos on top for maximum crunch and color. Serve at once so the chips keep their texture.
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I am obsessed with the chipotle dressing and sometimes make an extra batch to drizzle on tacos or roasted vegetables My niece still talks about the time we made this salad together and she got to toss the Fritos on top
Storage Tips
If you have leftovers keep the salad and dressing in separate containers and mix in Fritos only when ready to serve. Without chips this salad holds up beautifully in the fridge for up to two days. The dressing will keep its flavor in a sealed jar up to a week.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap in pinto or kidney beans for black beans with equal success. If you prefer less heat trade jalapeño for diced mild green chilies. No Chili Cheese Fritos in the pantry Regular Fritos or crunchy tortilla strips will work too though the chili cheese flavor is the real kicker.
Serving Suggestions
Cowboy Cabbage shines at picnics and is great alongside grilled chicken or burgers. You can even tuck a scoop into taco shells or serve as a chunky dip with more chips. At my house this instantly disappears at potluck tables.
A Cowboy Twist on Slaw
Coleslaw is standard at big gatherings but this version borrows Southwest flavors and gives a nod to classic Frito pie. It captures the spirit of Texas and Oklahoma cookouts while staying easy enough for weeknight meals.
Recipe FAQs
- → What gives this salad its signature crunch?
Chili Cheese Fritos are mixed in just before serving to keep the texture crisp and satisfying.
- → How spicy is the chipotle dressing?
The chipotle sauce adds gentle smoky heat, which can be adjusted to taste for mild or bolder spice levels.
- → Can this dish be made ahead of time?
You can prep the salad and dressing ahead, but add the Fritos just before serving to maintain their crunch.
- → What proteins are included?
Black beans provide plant-based protein, making this a nourishing and filling option.
- → Which herbs give freshness to the salad?
Fresh cilantro and green onions add bright, herbal notes that complement the smoky flavors.