Mexican Street Corn Salad

This Mexican Street Corn Salad transforms the beloved street food into a vibrant and tasty side dish perfect for any gathering. It’s easy to prepare and brings a burst of flavor that complements a variety of meals. Whether it’s a backyard barbecue or a cozy family dinner, this salad is sure to impress with its fresh ingredients and creamy dressing.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 20 minutes from start to finish, you can whip up this delicious salad in no time.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of sweet corn, zesty lime, and creamy cotija cheese creates a delightful taste experience.
• Versatile Side Dish: Pair it with tacos, grilled meats, or enjoy it on its own as a refreshing snack.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to adjust the spice level or add extra veggies based on your preference.
• Crowd-Pleaser: This salad serves 8, making it ideal for parties or family gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Mexican Street Corn Salad, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure everything goes smoothly in the kitchen.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Large mixing bowl
• Small mixing bowl
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A good skillet helps achieve the perfect char on the corn, enhancing its flavor.
• Large mixing bowl: Necessary for combining all ingredients without spills.
• Small mixing bowl: Ideal for preparing the dressing separately before adding it to the salad.

Ingredients

This Mexican Street Corn Salad turns the classic Mexican street food into a delicious and easy-to-make side dish!

For the Salad

• 4 cups corn (approximately 24 oz frozen)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 red bell pepper (diced)
• 1 bunch fresh cilantro (minced, a few leaves left for garnish)
• 1 jalapeno (diced)
• 1/2 large red onion (diced)
• 2/3 cup cotija cheese (shredded)

For the Dressing

• 3 tablespoons sour cream
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 4 tablespoons fresh lime juice (approximately 2 limes)
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon chili powder

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Mexican Street Corn Salad

Step 1: Cook the Corn

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the corn and cook until slightly charred, about 7-10 minutes. Once cooked, transfer it to a large bowl and set aside.

Step 2: Combine Vegetables

In the same large bowl with the corn, add diced red bell pepper, jalapeno, minced cilantro, and diced red onion. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.

Step 3: Prepare the Dressing

In a small mixing bowl, combine sour cream, mayonnaise, lime juice, cumin, paprika, kosher salt, and chili powder. Whisk together until smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Mix Everything Together

Pour the dressing over the corn mixture. Stir well to ensure all vegetables are coated. Add half of the cotija cheese and mix again.

Step 5: Add Final Touches

Sprinkle in the remaining cotija cheese along with some reserved cilantro leaves for garnish. Gently fold them into the salad.

Step 6: Serve or Chill

You can serve immediately or cover and store in the fridge for up to 8 hours before serving. Enjoy your flavorful Mexican Street Corn Salad!

How to Serve Mexican Street Corn Salad

Mexican Street Corn Salad is a versatile dish that can elevate any meal. This refreshing salad pairs well with various entrees and can be served in several creative ways. Here are some serving suggestions to enjoy this delicious side.

As a Topping for Tacos

• Enhance Flavor: Use the salad as a topping for tacos to add crunch and zest. It complements meats like chicken, beef, or fish perfectly.

With Grilled Meats

• Perfect Pairing: Serve alongside grilled chicken or steak to create a vibrant plate. The smoky flavors of grilled meats match well with the tangy corn salad.

In a Wrap

• Quick Meal: Add the salad to a wrap with your choice of protein for an easy lunch option. It’s filling and packed with flavor!

As a Dip

• Snack Time: Use it as a dip with tortilla chips for a fun appetizer. The creamy dressing and fresh ingredients make it irresistible.

On a Bed of Greens

• Healthy Option: Serve over mixed greens for a light lunch or dinner. This adds an extra layer of nutrition while keeping it fresh.

How to Perfect Mexican Street Corn Salad

To ensure your Mexican Street Corn Salad is always a hit, consider these tips. They will enhance the flavors and textures, making every bite delightful.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh corn and ripe vegetables will elevate the taste significantly.
• Add More Spice: If you like heat, include more jalapeños or chili powder to kick up the flavor.
• Chill Before Serving: Let the salad sit in the fridge for at least an hour after mixing. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
• Adjust Dressings: Feel free to tweak the dressing based on your taste preferences. A splash of vinegar can add extra tang.
• Experiment with Cheese: Try different cheeses like feta or queso fresco for varied textures and flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Mexican Street Corn Salad

Mexican Street Corn Salad pairs wonderfully with many other dishes. Here are some fantastic side dish options that complement this flavorful salad.

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers
   Juicy chicken skewers marinated in spices make an excellent accompaniment, adding protein and flavor balance.

2. Chili Lime Quinoa
   A zesty quinoa dish enhances the overall meal while providing additional fiber and nutrients.

3. Black Bean Tacos
   Flavorful black bean tacos offer a hearty vegetarian option that goes hand-in-hand with the corn salad.

4. Guacamole and Chips
   Creamy guacamole served with crispy tortilla chips creates a delightful contrast in textures alongside your salad.

5. Cilantro Lime Rice
   This aromatic rice dish complements the flavors of the corn salad, bringing freshness to your plate.

6. Roasted Vegetables
   Seasoned roasted veggies provide a savory element that pairs beautifully with the sweet corn salad.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Mexican Street Corn Salad, it’s easy to overlook a few important details. Here are some common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Overcooking the corn: Cooking the corn too long can make it mushy. Aim for a slight char without losing the crunch.
• Skipping fresh ingredients: Fresh herbs and vegetables elevate flavor. Always use fresh cilantro, lime juice, and peppers for the best taste.
• Not seasoning enough: A lack of seasoning can dull the dish. Adjust salt, cumin, and chili powder to enhance flavors according to your preference.
• Ignoring the dressing: The dressing is key to this salad’s flavor. Mix it well until smooth before adding it to the salad.
• Serving too soon: Allowing the salad to chill enhances its flavors. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving for optimal taste.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Ensure it’s tightly sealed to maintain freshness.

Freezing Mexican Street Corn Salad

• Freezing is not recommended as it alters texture.
• If necessary, freeze corn separately before mixing with other ingredients.

Reheating Mexican Street Corn Salad

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish for about 10-15 minutes. This will help retain moisture.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 30 seconds, stirring in between until warm. Be careful not to overheat.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet on low heat, stirring frequently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Mexican Street Corn Salad?

Mexican Street Corn Salad is a vibrant dish made with corn, fresh vegetables, and a creamy dressing inspired by traditional elote or street corn served in Mexico.

Can I make Mexican Street Corn Salad ahead of time?

Yes, preparing this salad ahead of time enhances its flavors. You can store it in the fridge for up to 3 days before serving.

What can I substitute for cotija cheese?

If you can’t find cotija cheese, feta cheese or queso fresco work as great alternatives while maintaining similar flavor profiles.

Is Mexican Street Corn Salad gluten-free?

Absolutely! This salad is naturally gluten-free and makes for a perfect side dish for those avoiding gluten.

How can I customize my Mexican Street Corn Salad?

You can add ingredients like avocado, black beans, or cherry tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrition while keeping the essence of the Mexican Street Corn Salad intact.

Final Thoughts

This Mexican Street Corn Salad brings together bold flavors and fresh ingredients that are sure to delight your taste buds. Its versatility allows for customization based on seasonal produce or personal preference. Whether served at a summer barbecue or alongside your favorite meal, this refreshing salad is a must-try!

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Mexican Street Corn Salad

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: Serves 8

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Description

Discover the vibrant flavors of Mexican Street Corn Salad, a delightful twist on traditional street food. This salad combines sweet corn, fresh vegetables, and a creamy dressing that bursts with zesty lime and savory cotija cheese. It’s an easy-to-make side dish that enhances any meal, whether at a lively barbecue or an intimate family dinner. With its colorful presentation and refreshing taste, this salad is not only a crowd-pleaser but also highly customizable to suit your preferences. In just 20 minutes, you’ll have a delicious dish that’s perfect for gatherings or as a quick snack. Impress your guests and elevate your meals with this flavorful Mexican Street Corn Salad.

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Ingredients

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• 4 cups corn (frozen)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 red bell pepper (diced)
• 1 bunch fresh cilantro (minced)
• 1 jalapeno (diced)
• 1/2 large red onion (diced)
• 2/3 cup cotija cheese (shredded)
• Dressing: sour cream, mayonnaise, lime juice, cumin, paprika, kosher salt, chili powder
• Garnish: fresh parsley

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Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add corn and cook until slightly charred (7-10 minutes), then transfer to a large bowl.
2. In the same bowl, mix in diced red bell pepper, jalapeno, minced cilantro, and diced red onion until combined.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together sour cream, mayonnaise, lime juice, cumin, paprika, kosher salt, and chili powder until smooth.
4. Pour the dressing over the corn mixture and stir to coat evenly. Fold in half of the cotija cheese.
5. Garnish with remaining cotija cheese and reserved cilantro leaves before serving.
6. Serve immediately or chill for up to 8 hours to allow flavors to meld.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Skillet
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 220
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 300mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 6g
• Cholesterol: 15mg