Go Back
Meticulously detailed close-up of Frito Cowboy Cabbage showing the texture of the creamy orange dressing and the cracked black pepper specks. (Frito Cowboy Cabbage)

Frito Cowboy Cabbage: The Ultimate Smoky & Crunchy Summer Side Dish

This Frito Cowboy Cabbage features shredded green and purple cabbage tossed in a thick, smoky pale-orange dressing, topped with crunchy Frito corn chips, fresh cilantro, and a dusting of chili powder for the perfect BBQ side.
Print Recipe Pin for Later
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 6 cups
Course: Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: American, Southern
Calories: 310
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Frito Cowboy Cabbage Ingredients
  • 1 small head Green Cabbage approx 450g, finely shredded
  • 1/4 head Red Cabbage approx 150g, finely shredded
  • 1/2 cup Mayonnaise 120ml
  • 1/4 cup Sour Cream 60ml
  • 1 tbsp Apple Cider Vinegar 15ml
  • 1 tsp Smoked Paprika 2g
  • 1/2 tsp Chili Powder plus extra for dusting
  • 1/2 tsp Cracked Black Pepper freshly cracked
  • 2 cups Frito Corn Chips 100g
  • 3 stalks Green Onions thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Cilantro 10g, finely chopped

Equipment

  • 1 Large Mixing Bowl
  • 1 Chef's Knife For fine shredding

Method
 

Prepare the Cabbage
  1. Combine shredded green and red cabbage in a bowl. Sprinkle with salt and massage for 30 seconds to lightly wilt while retaining structural crunch.
Make the Dressing
  1. Whisk mayonnaise, sour cream, vinegar, smoked paprika, chili powder, and black pepper until a thick, pale-orange dressing forms.
Assembly
  1. Toss the cabbage in the dressing. Top with Frito corn chips, green onions, cilantro, and a final dusting of chili powder.

Notes

Wait to add Fritos until the very last second to ensure they stay crunchy.
For a spicier kick, add chopped jalapeños or extra chili powder.