Name: Frito Cowboy Cabbage Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Ingredients: 1 bag (16 ounces) coleslaw mix; 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, rinsed and drained; 1 ½ cups (247.5 g) canned corn kernels, drained; 1 medium jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely diced; 1 small red bell pepper, seeded and finely diced; 3 green onions, finely sliced; ¼ cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped; 1 tablespoon taco seasoning; ½ teaspoon ground cumin; 1 bag (9.75 ounces) Chili Cheese Fritos, reserving a handful for topping; ½ cup (115 g) sour cream; ½ cup (116 g) mayonnaise; ¼ cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes); 2 tablespoons chipotle sauce from a can of chipotles in adobo, just the sauce, not the peppers

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 84 reviews

If you are craving something fresh, zesty, and packed with bold Tex-Mex flavors, you are in for a treat with the Frito Cowboy Cabbage Recipe. This vibrant salad combines crunchy coleslaw mix, smoky chipotle dressing, and the irresistible crunch of Chili Cheese Fritos to create a perfect harmony of textures and tastes. It’s a delightful dish that brings together a medley of colors and a kick of spice that feels homemade yet excitingly fresh every single time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A large clear bowl sits on a white marbled surface filled with layers of shredded green and purple cabbage at the bottom, topped with bright yellow corn kernels, diced red tomatoes on one side, and thin jalapeño slices scattered on top. Surrounding the bowl are smaller clear bowls with white sour cream, yellow tortilla chips, dark black beans, and fresh green cilantro leaves. Two whole limes, lime wedges, a halved jalapeño with seeds, and some loose cilantro leaves are also placed around, creating a colorful and fresh scene. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of the Frito Cowboy Cabbage Recipe lies in how straightforward but thoughtfully chosen the ingredients are. Each component adds layers of flavor, texture, and brightness, making this salad more than just a side dish — it’s a star on its own.

Coleslaw mix: Provides a crisp, fresh base that complements the creamy dressing perfectly.
Black beans: Adds heartiness and protein, giving the salad a satisfying element.
Canned corn kernels: Brings sweet, juicy bursts that balance the spicy notes.
Jalapeño pepper: Adds a gentle warmth and vibrant kick without overwhelming the palate.
Red bell pepper: Offers a sweet crunch and beautiful pop of color.
Green onions: Introduce a mild sharpness that enhances the overall flavor.
Fresh cilantro: Brings a refreshing herbaceous note that ties everything together.
Taco seasoning: Infuses the salad with classic Southwestern spices for authenticity.
Ground cumin: Adds earthy depth, elevating every bite.
Chili Cheese Fritos: Provide that signature crunchy, cheesy finish that truly defines the cowboy twist.
Sour cream: Makes the dressing creamy with a slight tang.
Mayonnaise: Balances the dressing’s texture, making it luscious and smooth.
Fresh lime juice: Brightens the dressing with zesty citrus notes.
Chipotle sauce: Packs smoky heat, adding complexity and a beautiful smoky aroma.

How to Make Frito Cowboy Cabbage Recipe

Step 1: Combine the Salad Ingredients

Start by tossing the coleslaw mix, black beans, corn, jalapeño, red bell pepper, green onions, and cilantro in a large bowl. Sprinkle on the taco seasoning and ground cumin to coat the mixture evenly. This ensures every bite is bursting with familiar but exciting southwestern flavors.

Step 2: Prepare the Chipotle Dressing

In a medium bowl, whisk together the sour cream, mayonnaise, fresh lime juice, and chipotle sauce until the dressing is perfectly smooth. This smoky, creamy dressing will bring all your bright ingredients together with just the right amount of heat and tang.

Step 3: Combine Salad and Dressing

Pour the chipotle dressing over the tossed salad ingredients. Then add most of the Chili Cheese Fritos to the bowl, reserving a handful for garnish. Gently stir everything together so the dressing evenly coats the vegetables and beans, infusing the salad with creamy smoky goodness.

Step 4: Add the Final Crunch

Just before serving, sprinkle the remaining Chili Cheese Fritos on top for that perfect crispy, cheesy crunch. Serve immediately to enjoy the contrast of textures at their freshest and most vibrant.

How to Serve Frito Cowboy Cabbage Recipe

A clear glass bowl filled with a colorful salad made of shredded white cabbage, small pieces of orange carrot, black beans, yellow corn, chopped green onions, and bits of purple cabbage, creating a mix of bright spots of color and textures. Above the bowl, a clear measuring cup pours a creamy light beige dressing onto the center of the salad. The bowl rests on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Beyond the Chili Cheese Fritos on top, try adding a sprinkling of fresh cilantro leaves or a wedge of lime. These extras brighten the presentation and give an optional fresh zing that complements the smoky spiciness.

Side Dishes

This recipe pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, steak, or even fish tacos. Its bold flavor and satisfying textures make it a fantastic companion that elevates any barbecue or casual dinner.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the Frito Cowboy Cabbage Recipe in individual mason jars or small taco bowls. Layering the salad and dressing lets guests enjoy the crunch of Fritos right at the top, preserving the contrast of textures. It also makes for a charming presentation that’s as inviting as it is tasty.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The salad will keep best if you save the Fritos separately and add them just before serving to maintain their crispiness. Leftovers stay fresh for up to 2 days.

Freezing

Since this is a fresh vegetable salad with a creamy dressing and crunchy Fritos, freezing is not recommended as it will affect the texture negatively, making the cabbage soggy and the Fritos lose their crunch.

Reheating

This salad is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature. If you prefer it slightly warmer, allow it to come to room temperature naturally but avoid microwaving to keep the flavors bright and crisp.

FAQs

Can I make the Frito Cowboy Cabbage Recipe vegan?

Absolutely! Swap the sour cream and mayonnaise for vegan alternatives, and double-check the seasoning blends to ensure they’re free of animal products. The chipotle sauce can often be vegan, but always check the label.

Can I use fresh cabbage instead of coleslaw mix?

Yes, fresh cabbage works well, though coleslaw mix often includes shredded carrots for extra sweetness and color. Shred your own cabbage and add in some julienned carrots for the best effect.

Is it possible to adjust the heat level?

Definitely! Remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapeño to reduce heat, or substitute with a milder pepper. You can also adjust the amount of chipotle sauce in the dressing to suit your spice tolerance.

Can I prepare the salad in advance?

You can prep the vegetables and dressing separately ahead of time, then toss everything together right before serving along with the Fritos. This helps keep everything fresh and crunchy.

What can I substitute if I don’t have Chili Cheese Fritos?

Try using your favorite cheesy crunchy chips or tortilla chips to maintain the texture and flavor contrast. The key is to preserve that signature salty, crunchy element that defines the recipe.

Final Thoughts

The Frito Cowboy Cabbage Recipe is one of those dishes you’ll want to make again and again, whether for a quick weeknight dinner or as a standout at your next gathering. Its vibrant colors, harmonious mix of smoky spice and fresh crunch, and that unbeatable cheesy Frito crunch make it undeniably addictive. Give it a try and watch how this simple yet flavorful salad quickly becomes a beloved classic in your recipe rotation.

Frito Cowboy Cabbage Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need