Mexican Street Corn Salad Recipe
Introduction
Mexican Street Corn Salad is a fresh, creamy, and flavorful dish inspired by classic elote. Sweet corn is combined with a tangy creamy dressing, salty cheese, lime juice, chili, and fresh cilantro for an irresistible mix of smoky, zesty, and savory flavors. It's quick to prepare and makes a fantastic side dish for tacos, grilled meats, summer barbecues, potlucks, or family dinners.
Prep Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
Yield
- Servings: 6
- Makes: About 6 cups
Ingredients
- Sweet corn: Provides juicy, naturally sweet flavor; substitute frozen corn.
- Mayonnaise: Creates the creamy dressing; substitute plain Greek yogurt.
- Cotija cheese: Adds salty, crumbly richness; substitute feta cheese.
- Lime juice: Brings bright acidity; substitute fresh lemon juice.
- Chili powder: Adds smoky warmth and mild heat; substitute smoked paprika.
- Cilantro: Adds fresh herbal flavor; substitute fresh parsley.
Preparation & Cooking
Step 1: Cook the Corn
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the corn and cook for 7–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender and lightly charred. Remove from the heat and let cool slightly.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, fresh lime juice, chili powder, salt, and black pepper until smooth and creamy.
Step 3: Combine
Transfer the warm corn to a large mixing bowl. Add the creamy dressing and toss until the kernels are evenly coated.
Step 4: Add the Cheese
Fold in most of the crumbled Cotija cheese, reserving some for garnish.
Step 5: Add Fresh Flavor
Stir in chopped cilantro and add an extra squeeze of lime juice if desired.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Transfer the salad to a serving bowl. Sprinkle with the remaining Cotija cheese and a little chili powder. Serve warm, at room temperature, or chilled.
Serving Ideas
- Chicken tacos
- Carne asada
- Grilled chicken
- BBQ ribs
- Fish tacos
- Burgers
- Tortilla chips
Storage
Store Mexican Street Corn Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir well before serving and add a fresh squeeze of lime if needed.
Tips
- Char the corn well to create the smoky flavor associated with street corn.
- Freshly squeezed lime juice gives the dressing a brighter flavor.
- Add the cheese after the corn has cooled slightly so it doesn't melt completely.
- Adjust the chili powder and lime to suit your preferred level of heat and acidity.
Conclusion
Mexican Street Corn Salad brings all the delicious flavors of elote into an easy, scoopable side dish. Sweet charred corn, creamy dressing, salty Cotija, zesty lime, chili, and fresh cilantro create a vibrant combination that's perfect for summer gatherings, taco nights, cookouts, and potlucks.
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