Why Make This Recipe
Mexican Street Corn Salad is a vibrant and delicious dish that brings the flavor of summer straight to your table. It’s perfect for barbecues, picnics, or as a side for any meal. The combination of fresh ingredients and creamy dressing makes it a crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time!
How to Make Mexican Street Corn Salad
Ingredients
- 3 cups corn (fresh, frozen, or canned, charred)
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream or Mexican crema
- 1/2 cup cotija cheese, crumbled
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- Char the corn on a grill or skillet until browned and slightly smoky. Let it cool slightly.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
- Add the charred corn to the bowl. Toss to coat the corn evenly with the creamy mixture.
- Gently fold in crumbled cotija cheese and chopped cilantro.
- Taste the salad and adjust with more lime juice, chili powder, or salt as needed.
- Garnish with extra cotija, chili powder, and cilantro. Serve immediately or chill before serving.
How to Serve Mexican Street Corn Salad
This salad is best served fresh but can also be chilled for a refreshing twist. Serve it as a side dish to grilled meats, tacos, or with tortilla chips for a savory snack. You can also enjoy it on its own as a light meal.
How to Store Mexican Street Corn Salad
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for about 2-3 days. You may want to add fresh cilantro or extra lime juice before serving again, as the flavors can mellow over time.
Tips to Make Mexican Street Corn Salad
- Use fresh corn when possible, as it provides the best flavor. If using frozen, ensure it is thawed and dried.
- Adjust the spiciness by adding more or less chili powder according to your taste.
- Don’t skip on garnishes like extra cotija cheese and cilantro for a beautiful presentation and added flavor.
Variation
Feel free to add diced tomatoes or jalapeños for some extra color and kick. You can also substitute feta cheese if cotija is hard to find.
FAQs
Can I use canned corn for this recipe?
Yes, canned corn works well. Just drain and rinse it before use!
Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients used in this salad are gluten-free, making it perfect for those with gluten sensitivities.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it a few hours in advance. Just keep it refrigerated until you are ready to serve.
