Frito Cowboy Cabbage is a bold, crunchy salad that brings together crisp cabbage, colorful vegetables, creamy dressing, and salty corn chips for a satisfying mix of textures and flavors. This dish is known for its balance of freshness and indulgence, where crunchy cabbage meets creamy dressing and the unmistakable crunch of Fritos. It’s a simple, crowd-pleasing side that fits perfectly at potlucks, barbecues, and casual family meals.
What makes this salad stand out is how quickly it comes together while still delivering big flavor. There’s no cooking involved, just fresh chopping, quick mixing, and a final toss before serving. The cabbage holds up well to dressing, making it ideal for gatherings where you need a salad that stays crisp and flavorful longer than leafy greens.
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Small bowl for dressing
- Whisk or spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- Green cabbage – 6 cups, finely shredded
- Purple cabbage – 2 cups, finely shredded
- Green onions – ½ cup, sliced
- Tomatoes – 1 cup, diced
- Shredded cheddar cheese – 1 cup
- Fritos corn chips – 2 cups, lightly crushed
For the Dressing
- Mayonnaise – ½ cup
- Sour cream – ¼ cup
- Sugar – 1 tablespoon
- Apple cider vinegar – 1 tablespoon
- Salt – ½ teaspoon
- Black pepper – ¼ teaspoon
Instructions
- Add the green cabbage and purple cabbage to a large mixing bowl.
- Stir in the sliced green onions and diced tomatoes.
- Add the shredded cheddar cheese and gently toss to combine.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, sugar, apple cider vinegar, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
- Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss until evenly coated.
- Just before serving, fold in the crushed Fritos for maximum crunch.
- Serve immediately.
Recipe Info
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Servings: 8
- Cuisine: American / Southwestern
- Course: Side Dish / Salad
How to Store
Store the salad without Fritos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Add the Fritos just before serving to keep them crunchy.
What Not to Do
- Do not add the Fritos too early, or they will become soggy.
- Avoid overdressing the salad — start with less and add more if needed.
- Do not finely mince the cabbage; thin shreds provide better crunch.
Tips & Variations
- Add cooked, crumbled bacon for extra savory flavor.
- Swap cheddar for pepper jack cheese for a spicy kick.
- Add corn kernels or black beans for a heartier salad.
- Use lime juice instead of vinegar for a citrus twist.
Approximate Nutrition (Per Serving Estimate)
- Calories: ~230 kcal
- Protein: ~5 g
- Fat: ~18 g
- Carbohydrates: ~15 g
- Fiber: ~3 g
- Sugar: ~4 g
Ingredients
Method
- Add the green cabbage and purple cabbage to a large mixing bowl.
- Stir in the sliced green onions and diced tomatoes.
- Add the shredded cheddar cheese and gently toss to combine.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, sugar, apple cider vinegar, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
- Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss until evenly coated.
- Just before serving, fold in the crushed Fritos for maximum crunch.
- Serve immediately.
Notes
- Protein: ~5 g
- Fat: ~18 g
- Carbohydrates: ~15 g
- Fiber: ~3 g
- Sugar: ~4 g
Conclusion
Frito Cowboy Cabbage Salad is a simple yet addictive dish that combines crisp vegetables, creamy dressing, and crunchy corn chips in every bite. Easy to prepare and always a hit, it’s the perfect side for cookouts, gatherings, or anytime you want something fresh with a little indulgence.
FAQs
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, prepare everything except the Fritos and add them right before serving.
Does cabbage get soggy?
Cabbage holds up better than lettuce and stays crisp longer.
Can I make it lighter?
Yes, use light mayonnaise or Greek yogurt in place of sour cream.
What can I substitute for Fritos?
Crushed tortilla chips or corn chips work well.
Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, as long as the corn chips used are gluten-free.
Can I add protein?
Yes, grilled chicken or seasoned ground beef can be added.
