Name: Mexican Street Corn Salad
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 6 cups fresh sweet corn (about 4 large ears, shucked and removed from the cob); 1 tablespoon vegetable oil; 5 ounces Cotija cheese (crumbled); 2 cloves garlic (minced or grated); 1½ teaspoons chili powder; salt & pepper (to taste); ½ cup mayonnaise; ½ cup sour cream; ¼ cup Mexican crema; 1-2 medium limes; 1 thinly sliced serrano chili or jalapeño; cilantro; pickled onions; Tajín chili-lime seasoning or chili powder; Lime wedges

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Growing up in a vibrant neighborhood filled with the aromas of street food, one dish always stood out to me: Mexican Street Corn Salad. I can still recall the first time I tasted it—sweet corn, smoky spices, and creamy goodness all mingling together in a delightful harmony. It was love at first bite! Every summer, as the weather warms and the farmers’ markets burst with fresh produce, I find myself craving this irresistible dish. It evokes memories of summer gatherings, laughter, and the joy of sharing good food with family and friends.

Making Mexican Street Corn Salad at home is not just about satisfying a craving; it’s a celebration of flavors that transport you straight to the bustling streets of Mexico. The idea of grilling corn until it’s perfectly charred, then dressing it up with tangy lime, creamy sauces, and a hint of spice fills me with excitement. It’s a dish that embodies everything I love about summer—fresh, vibrant, and oh-so-delicious!

Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or just want a refreshing side dish for your weeknight dinner, this salad is a crowd-pleaser. I often prepare it for gatherings, and it never fails to impress. The combination of textures and flavors makes it a delightful addition to any meal. Plus, it’s quick to whip up, allowing you to enjoy more time with your loved ones.

Join me as we dive into this recipe that not only satisfies your taste buds but also nourishes your soul. Bring a little bit of Mexico into your kitchen with this simple yet oh-so-satisfying Mexican Street Corn Salad.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
20 mins

Prep Time:
20 mins

Cook Time:
0 mins

Difficulty:
Easy

Calories:
250 kcal

Protein:
6 g

Diet:
Keto, Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
17 g

Tools Used:
Silicone Spatula Set, Mixing bowl set

Why This Mexican Street Corn Salad Is So Good

Fresh Ingredients Make All the Difference

There’s something magical about using fresh ingredients, and in Mexican Street Corn Salad, they truly shine. The sweet corn, with its natural sugar, provides a delightful contrast to the spiciness of the chili powder. This salad is a celebration of sweet, salty, and spicy—a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate.

Versatility Beyond Compare

This dish is incredibly versatile, making it suitable for various occasions. You can serve it warm, at room temperature, or even chilled, adapting it to your preferences. Whether it’s a summer BBQ, a picnic, or a simple family dinner, Mexican Street Corn Salad fits right in!

Easy to Prepare

With just a few simple steps, you can prepare this dish in no time. The combination of grilling and mixing makes it an engaging recipe that anyone can handle, even those who may feel intimidated in the kitchen. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked!

Colorful and Inviting

One cannot overlook the vibrant colors that make Mexican Street Corn Salad so inviting. The bright yellow of the corn, the deep green of cilantro, and the red of chili create a feast for the eyes. It’s a dish that not only tastes incredible but looks stunning on any table.

A Taste of Tradition

This recipe pays homage to traditional Mexican street food, which is both comforting and familiar. Each bite brings with it a sense of nostalgia, evoking memories of bustling street corners filled with vendors serving delicious corn dishes. Bringing this recipe home allows you to share a piece of that culture with your family and friends.

Perfect for Sharing

Lastly, Mexican Street Corn Salad is perfect for sharing. The joy of gathering around a table, enjoying a delicious meal together, and creating memories is what cooking is all about. This recipe is sure to bring everyone together, making it a heartwarming experience.

What You’ll Need for Mexican Street Corn Salad

When you set out to make Mexican Street Corn Salad, you’ll discover that the ingredients are simple yet packed with flavor. Each component plays a vital role in creating that signature taste. The combination of fresh sweet corn, creamy sauces, and zesty lime juice creates a harmonious blend that you won’t be able to resist. Let’s take a closer look at these key players.

6 cups fresh sweet corn (about 4 large ears, shucked and removed from the cob) – Fresh sweet corn is the star of this dish. It brings a natural sweetness and crunch that is absolutely irresistible.
1 tablespoon vegetable oil – This helps to sauté the corn, giving it that perfect golden color and enhancing the flavor.
5 ounces Cotija cheese (crumbled) – Cotija adds a creamy texture and a salty bite that pairs beautifully with the sweet corn.
2 cloves of garlic (minced or grated) – Garlic introduces a fragrant aroma and depth of flavor to the salad.
1½ teaspoons chili powder – Chili powder offers a subtle heat and smokiness that elevates the dish.
Salt & pepper to taste – These essentials enhance the overall flavor profile.
½ cup mayonnaise – Adds creaminess and richness to the salad.
½ cup sour cream – A tangy counterpart to the mayonnaise, making the dressing extra luscious.
¼ cup Mexican crema – This gives the salad a decadent creaminess and authentic touch.
1-2 medium limes – Lime juice brightens the flavors and balances the richness.
1 thinly sliced serrano chili or jalapeño – For those who love a bit of spice, this adds a kick!
Cilantro – Fresh cilantro brings a burst of freshness and is a classic pairing with corn.
Pickled onions – These add a tangy crunch that complements the creamy elements.
Tajín chili-lime seasoning or chili powder – A finishing touch that enhances the dish with a zesty kick.
Lime wedges – Served alongside for additional brightness.

Recipe Directions for Mexican Street Corn Salad

Making Mexican Street Corn Salad is a delightful experience that brings a burst of flavors into your kitchen. Follow these steps to create this delicious dish!

Start by adding the vegetable oil to a large non-stick skillet and place it over medium-high heat. Allow the oil to heat until it’s shimmering and hot. This step is crucial as it helps to achieve that perfect char on the corn.
Working in batches based on the size of your skillet, carefully add the corn to the skillet. Gently stir to coat the kernels in the hot oil. Spread the corn in an even layer across the bottom of the skillet and cover it with a lid. Cook for about 3 minutes on medium-high heat. You’re looking for a golden char on the corn.
After the three minutes are up, remove the skillet from the heat and transfer the charred corn to a large mixing bowl. Repeat this process with the remaining corn until it’s all beautifully charred.
In the bowl with the charred corn, add the crumbled Cotija cheese, minced garlic, chili powder, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything together gently to combine the flavors.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, Mexican crema, and the juice of one lime. This creamy dressing is what ties all the ingredients together.
Taste the dressing and adjust by adding more lime juice or salt if desired. It should be balanced with a hint of tanginess and richness.
When you’re ready to serve, pour the creamy dressing over the corn mixture and stir gently to combine. Be careful not to crush the corn!
Garnish your Mexican Street Corn Salad as desired with additional crumbled Cotija cheese, pickled onions, thinly sliced jalapeños, and fresh cilantro. Each garnish adds another level of flavor and texture.
This dish is best served warm, but it can also be enjoyed cold. The flavors meld beautifully, making it a great make-ahead option!
Enjoy your delicious Mexican Street Corn Salad with friends and family, and watch it disappear!

Things Worth Knowing

Fresh Corn is Key: Opt for fresh corn when making this salad. It enhances the sweetness and crunch, making a significant difference in flavor.
Adjust to Taste: Feel free to modify the level of spiciness by adding more or less chili according to your preference.
Serving Temperature: While this salad is delicious warm, allowing it to chill slightly can help the flavors develop even more.
Garnish Creativity: Experiment with different toppings like avocado or other fresh herbs if you want to personalize the dish.

Tips and Tricks about Mexican Street Corn Salad

To elevate your experience with Mexican Street Corn Salad, here are some practical tips and tricks that will help you make the most of this delicious dish.

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will continue to meld, enhancing the taste.
Freezing: You can freeze the corn before mixing in the dressings. Just make sure to thaw it before serving.
Pairing: This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled proteins like chicken or fish, making it a perfect summer side dish.
Make Ahead: Prepare the corn and dressing separately. Mix them right before serving to keep the corn fresh and crisp.
Variations: Try adding diced avocado or black beans for added texture and flavor—perfect for customizing according to your taste.
Cooking Method: For added smokiness, consider grilling the corn instead of sautéing it. The char from the grill adds fantastic flavor.

Best Served With

When it comes to enjoying Mexican Street Corn Salad, the options are endless! Here are some of the best ways to serve this delightful dish:

As a Side Dish: Pair it with grilled chicken, steak, or fish for a well-rounded meal.
Picnic Friendly: This salad is perfect for outdoor gatherings, picnics, or potlucks. It travels well and maintains its flavor.
Garnish Style: Get creative with garnishes! Use fresh herbs, additional cheese, or even crispy tortilla strips for added crunch.
Occasions: Ideal for summer barbecues, family reunions, or casual dinners with friends, ensuring everyone enjoys a taste of summer.
Seasonal Pairing: This salad shines during the warmer months when corn is at its peak, but it’s delightful any time of the year!
Storage Advice: If you have leftovers, store them in the fridge and enjoy them the next day for a quick, delicious lunch option.

FAQ

Mexican Street Corn Salad is a delicious dish inspired by the traditional Mexican street food known as elote. It features fresh corn mixed with creamy dressings, spices, cheese, and lime, creating a flavorful and refreshing salad. This dish can be served warm or cold and is perfect for summer gatherings or as a side for any meal.

Absolutely! Mexican Street Corn Salad can be prepared ahead of time. You can cook the corn and mix it with the other ingredients, but it’s best to keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve. This way, the corn remains fresh and crunchy, and you can enjoy the full flavors when it’s time to eat.

To store leftover Mexican Street Corn Salad, place it in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep well for up to three days. The flavors will continue to develop and meld, making it even tastier the next day! Just give it a good stir before serving again.

Yes! One of the best things about Mexican Street Corn Salad is its versatility. You can easily customize the ingredients by adding other vegetables, like diced bell peppers or red onions, or adjusting the level of spiciness with additional chili peppers. Get creative and make it your own!

Conclusion

Mexican Street Corn Salad is not just a dish; it’s a delicious experience that brings the vibrant flavors of summer to your table. With its rich blend of sweet corn, creamy dressings, and zesty lime, it’s a recipe that you simply can’t resist. I encourage you to try it for your next gathering or as a delightful side dish at dinner. You won’t be disappointed!