Mexican Street Corn Salad

Introduction

Mexican Street Corn Salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish inspired by elote, the beloved Mexican street corn. This salad combines the smoky, tangy, and creamy flavors of traditional elote in a convenient, easy-to-serve format. Made with roasted or grilled corn, a zesty lime dressing, creamy mayo, crumbled cotija cheese, and a touch of spice, it’s the perfect balance of richness and freshness in every bite.

I remember making this for a summer barbecue, and it disappeared almost instantly. The combination of charred corn, bright citrus, and savory cheese makes it irresistible. It’s a fantastic side dish that pairs well with grilled meats, tacos, or even as a dip with tortilla chips. Plus, it’s easy to customize—add a little extra spice with chili powder or a pop of freshness with chopped cilantro.

Whether you’re hosting a backyard cookout or just want a flavorful twist on a classic corn dish, this salad is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. It’s simple, delicious, and packed with bold Mexican flavors that keep everyone coming back for more.

Perfect for:

• Summer cookouts
• Potlucks and picnics
• Taco nights
• Side dish for grilled meats
• Mexican food lovers

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why Mexican Street Corn Salad will become your new go-to side dish:

• Bold and Flavorful: The combination of charred corn, lime, creamy dressing, and spices creates a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and smoky flavors.
• Easy to Make: No need to deal with whole ears of corn; this salad comes together quickly using fresh or frozen corn.
• Crowd-Pleaser: A guaranteed hit at any gathering, this dish pairs well with a variety of main courses.
• Customizable: Adjust the spice level, cheese, or add mix-ins like avocado or black beans to make it your own.
• Can Be Made in Advance: This salad tastes even better after sitting for a bit, making it perfect for meal prep.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 10 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Calories per serving: Approximately 200-250 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 6g, Carbs: 20g, Fat: 12g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Mexican Street Corn Salad:

• 4 cups corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (if cooking fresh corn)
• ⅓ cup mayonnaise
• ¼ cup sour cream or Mexican crema
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice (about 1 lime)
• ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ cup cotija cheese, crumbled (or feta as a substitute)
• ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 small jalapeño, finely diced (optional, for heat)

Ingredient Highlights

• Corn: Fresh, grilled corn adds smoky depth, but frozen or canned corn works well too.
• Cotija Cheese: This crumbly, salty cheese enhances the creamy texture and adds a rich umami flavor.
• Lime Juice: Provides the essential tangy brightness that ties everything together.
• Chili Powder & Smoked Paprika: Give the salad its signature warmth and a mild kick of spice.
• Cilantro: Adds a fresh, herby contrast to the richness of the dressing.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Corn:

1. If using fresh corn, cut the kernels off the cob. If using frozen corn, thaw and pat dry.
2. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the butter and corn.
3. Sauté for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the corn is lightly charred. If using canned corn, drain well and sauté without butter to remove excess moisture.
4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

Make the Dressing:

5. In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic, salt, and black pepper until smooth.

Assemble the Salad:

6. Add the cooked corn to the bowl with the dressing and stir to coat evenly.
7. Fold in the crumbled cotija cheese, cilantro, and jalapeño (if using).
8. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Serve:

9. Garnish with extra cheese, cilantro, and a sprinkle of chili powder for color.
10. Serve warm, at room temperature, or chilled.

How to Serve Mexican Street Corn Salad

Mexican Street Corn Salad is a versatile dish that pairs well with many meals:

• With Tacos: Serve alongside carne asada, carnitas, or grilled chicken tacos.
• As a BBQ Side: Perfect with grilled meats, burgers, or hot dogs.
• Over Greens: Turn it into a flavorful salad by serving it over a bed of lettuce.
• In a Burrito or Bowl: Use it as a topping for rice bowls or burrito fillings.
• With Chips: Scoop it up with tortilla chips for a delicious dip-style appetizer.

Additional Tips for Mexican Street Corn Salad

• Use Fresh Corn – If possible, use fresh corn on the cob and grill it for extra smoky flavor. Frozen or canned corn works in a pinch, but fresh is best.
• Char the Corn – If you don’t have a grill, use a cast-iron skillet to char the corn for that signature roasted flavor.
• Add Some Heat – Adjust the spice level with jalapeños, serranos, cayenne, or even a splash of hot sauce for an extra kick.
• Balance the Creaminess – Use a mix of mayonnaise and Mexican crema (or sour cream) for a smooth, tangy base. Greek yogurt is a lighter alternative.
• Don’t Skip the Lime – Fresh lime juice adds brightness and balances the richness of the dressing. Add zest for even more citrus punch.
• Mix Up the Cheese – Cotija cheese is traditional, but crumbled feta or queso fresco are great substitutes if needed.
• Add Extra Crunch – Toss in diced red bell peppers, crispy tortilla strips, or toasted pepitas for texture.
• Make It Ahead – The flavors get even better after chilling for an hour, making it a great make-ahead dish for parties.
• Garnish Right Before Serving – Fresh cilantro, extra cheese, and a sprinkle of Tajín or chili powder add the perfect finishing touch.
• Serve It Different Ways – Enjoy it as a side dish, taco filling, dip with tortilla chips, or even as a topping for grilled meats

Recipe Variations for Mexican Street Corn Salad

Here are 10 variations to try for Mexican Street Corn Salad:

• Avocado Street Corn Salad: Add diced avocado for a creamy twist.
• Black Bean Corn Salad: Mix in black beans for extra protein and fiber.
• Spicy Chipotle Corn Salad: Blend chipotle peppers into the dressing for smoky heat.
• Bacon Street Corn Salad: Crumble in crispy bacon for a savory upgrade.
• Tex-Mex Corn Salad: Add diced bell peppers and red onions for extra crunch.
• Elote Pasta Salad: Toss the corn mixture with cooked pasta for a heartier dish.
• Vegan Street Corn Salad: Use vegan mayo and dairy-free cheese for a plant-based version.
• Mango Corn Salad: Add diced mango for a sweet and spicy combination.
• Southwest Corn Salad: Include cumin, black beans, and cherry tomatoes for a southwestern flair.
• Cheese Lover’s Corn Salad: Use a mix of cotija, feta, and shredded cheddar for an extra cheesy experience.

Freezing and Storage for Mexican Street Corn Salad

• Freezing: This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze cooked corn before mixing with the dressing.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Stir before serving, as the dressing may thicken.

Special Equipment for Mexican Street Corn Salad

• Grill or Grill Pan – To char the corn for a smoky flavor.
• Cast Iron Skillet – An alternative to grilling, perfect for roasting corn on the stovetop.
• Sharp Chef’s Knife – For cutting the kernels off the cob cleanly.
• Mixing Bowls – To combine all the ingredients evenly.
• Microplane or Zester – For finely grating fresh lime zest.
• Citrus Juicer or Reamer – To extract fresh lime juice easily.
• Measuring Spoons and Cups – For precise ingredient portions.
• Spatula or Wooden Spoon – To mix the salad without crushing the corn.
• Small Whisk – To blend the dressing ingredients smoothly.
• Serving Spoon or Tongs – To serve the salad neatly.

Frequently Asked Questions for Mexican Street Corn Salad

1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
   Yes! It actually tastes better after sitting for a bit, making it great for meal prep.
2. Can I use canned corn instead of fresh?
   Yes, just make sure to drain it well and sauté it to remove excess moisture.
3. What’s the best cheese substitute for cotija?
   Feta is a great substitute if you can’t find cotija cheese.
4. How can I make this recipe spicier?
   Add diced jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or a drizzle of hot sauce.
5. Can I make this dairy-free?
   Yes, use dairy-free mayo and a vegan cheese alternative.

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Conclusion

Mexican Street Corn Salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish that captures the essence of classic elote in a simple, easy-to-serve form. With its smoky, tangy, and creamy flavors, this salad is the perfect addition to any meal, whether it’s a backyard barbecue, taco night, or a casual family dinner. It’s a crowd-pleaser that brings bold Mexican flavors to every bite.

This recipe is as effortless to prepare as it is delicious, making it a go-to choice for any gathering. Serve it as a side, a topping, or enjoy it on its own—it’s that good!

I’d love to see how your Mexican Street Corn Salad turns out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and don’t forget to tag me—I can’t wait to see your delicious creations. Happy cooking!