Lunch

Mexican Street Corn Salad

Name: Mexican Street Corn Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Mexican
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

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Why Make This Mexican Street Corn Salad

Mexican Street Corn Salad, or "Elote en Esquela," brings the vibrant flavors of street food right to your kitchen. This dish celebrates the sweet, juicy taste of corn mixed with creamy, zesty toppings. It’s perfect for summer barbecues, picnics, or as a delicious side for any meal. Plus, this salad packs a punch of flavor without requiring hours in the kitchen!

How to Make Mexican Street Corn Salad

Making Mexican Street Corn Salad is straightforward and rewarding. Start by charring the corn – this step adds a marvelous smoky depth to the dish. Then, whip up a creamy, tangy dressing to bind everything together. Just mix the ingredients, combine with the corn, and fold in the cheese and herbs for a fresh, lively flavor profile. It’s all about balance and elevating the natural sweetness of the corn!

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, then let it cool slightly.
In a large mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, garlic, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Add the charred corn to the bowl and toss to coat evenly in the creamy mixture.
Fold in crumbled cotija cheese and chopped cilantro gently.
Taste 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.

Nutritional Information

Per serving (about 1 cup):

Calories: 230
Total Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 20mg
Sodium: 150mg
Total Carbohydrates: 26g
Dietary Fiber: 3g
Sugars: 4g
Protein: 6g

How to Serve Mexican Street Corn Salad

Serve this delightful salad as a side dish at your next barbecue or picnic. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats, tacos, or even as a topping for enchiladas. It’s also great on its own as a light lunch. If you’d like, squeeze a little extra lime juice over the top just before serving for an added zesty pop!

How to Store Mexican Street Corn Salad

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This salad will keep well for up to 3 days. However, for maximum freshness, try to eat it within 24 hours, especially if you’ve mixed in the cilantro and cheese.

Expert Tips for Perfect Mexican Street Corn Salad

To achieve the best flavor, consider using fresh corn in season. If you’re using frozen corn, thaw and drain it well before charring.
Don’t skip the charring step; it contributes a wonderful smoky flavor that elevates the salad.
Adjust the lime juice and chili powder according to your taste preference. If you like it spicier, add a pinch of cayenne pepper!
If you can’t find cotija, feta cheese is a great substitute.

Delicious Variations

Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños for an extra kick.
Herb Blend: Mix in fresh mint or parsley along with cilantro for a unique flavor twist.
Creamy Avocado: Fold in diced avocado for added creaminess and richness.
Bacon Bits: Incorporate crispy bacon bits for a savory crunch.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use canned corn for this recipe?
Yes, canned corn works well. Just be sure to rinse it thoroughly to remove excess sodium and moisture before charring.
Is there a vegan version of this salad?
Absolutely! Swap the mayonnaise and sour cream for vegan alternatives, and use a plant-based cheese substitute.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the salad a few hours ahead, but it’s best to add cilantro and cheese just before serving for maximum freshness.

Conclusion

Mexican Street Corn Salad is a vibrant, flavorful dish that’s sure to please your taste buds! Its delightful combination of textures and flavors makes it a must-try for any occasion. So why not whip up this crowd-pleaser at your next gathering? We encourage you to try this recipe, share it with friends, and let us know how it turns out! Enjoy your culinary adventure!