Dinner

Frito Cowboy Cabbage Recipe

Name: Frito Cowboy Cabbage Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Southwestern
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)

ByElara Stone February 21, 2026February 21, 2026

Jump to Recipe

Introduction

Frito Cowboy Cabbage is a vibrant, crunchy salad that combines fresh veggies with bold southwestern flavors. The chipotle dressing adds a creamy, smoky kick while Chili Cheese Fritos bring a satisfying crunch. It’s perfect for a quick lunch or a flavorful side dish.

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)

Instructions

Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the coleslaw mix, black beans, corn, jalapeño, red bell pepper, green onions, cilantro, taco seasoning, and ground cumin. Toss well to mix evenly.
Step 2: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together sour cream, mayonnaise, lime juice, and chipotle sauce until smooth to create the chipotle dressing.
Step 3: Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently to coat all ingredients thoroughly.
Step 4: Add all but a handful of the Chili Cheese Fritos to the salad and stir lightly to distribute without crushing them.
Step 5: Just before serving, sprinkle the reserved handful of Fritos on top to add extra crunch.
Step 6: Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.

Tips & Variations

For a milder version, reduce or omit the jalapeño or chipotle sauce.
Substitute the Chili Cheese Fritos with plain corn chips or tortilla strips for a different texture.
Add diced avocado for creaminess or chopped tomatoes for extra freshness.
Make it vegan by using dairy-free sour cream and mayonnaise alternatives.

Storage

Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the Fritos separate and add just before serving to maintain their crunch. Reheat is not recommended as it is best served cold and fresh.

How to Serve

A white bowl filled with a colorful layered salad consisting of orange and red crispy corn chips mixed with creamy dressing, black beans, yellow corn kernels, shredded white and purple cabbage, and small pieces of tomato and green herbs. The salad has a chunky texture with scattered chips lying on top and mixed throughout. The bowl is placed on a white marbled background with a halved green lime visible nearby. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare this salad in advance?

You can prepare the salad mixture and dressing separately a day ahead and combine them shortly before serving. Add the Fritos just before serving to keep them crunchy.