Mexican Street Corn Salad

This Mexican Street Corn Salad is a vibrant and creamy side dish bursting with tangy flavors and a hint of spice. With sweet corn, creamy mayonnaise and sour cream, zesty lime, and crumbled cotija cheese, this dish is an explosion of deliciousness. It’s perfect as a side for BBQs, a snack, or even a light meal on its own. Quick and easy to make, it brings the best of Mexican street corn to your table in a refreshing salad form!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Mexican Street Corn Salad combines the irresistible flavors of traditional Mexican street corn (Elote) in a creamy, easy-to-make salad. The combination of sweetness from the corn, tanginess from the lime, and the savory, slightly salty cotija cheese makes each bite burst with flavor. It’s perfect for summer cookouts, family dinners, or any occasion that calls for a tasty, crowd-pleasing side dish!

Ingredients

4 cups corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup sour cream
2 tablespoons lime juice
1 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
1/4 cup cotija cheese, crumbled
Salt and pepper to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. If using fresh corn, grill or boil the corn, then cut the kernels off the cob.
2. In a large bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, and garlic powder.
3. Add the corn, cilantro, and cotija cheese to the bowl, stirring gently to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 6

Variations

• Add Heat: For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños to the salad.
• Grilled Corn Version: For extra smoky flavor, grill the corn before adding it to the salad. It adds a delicious depth of flavor.
• Cheese Substitution: If you can’t find cotija cheese, you can substitute it with feta cheese or Parmesan for a similar salty taste.
• Herb Infusion: Add a handful of chopped green onions or even a few tablespoons of fresh basil for a unique twist.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This salad is best enjoyed fresh but will keep well for a couple of days.

Reheating: This salad is typically served cold or at room temperature. Reheat if preferred, but the flavor may slightly change when warm.

FAQs

1. Can I use canned corn instead of fresh or frozen?

Yes, canned corn can be used in this recipe. Just drain and rinse it thoroughly to reduce the sodium content before mixing it with the other ingredients.

2. Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes! This salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This will allow the flavors to meld together even more.

3. Can I add other vegetables to the salad?

Yes, you can add diced red bell peppers, cucumber, or even avocado for extra texture and freshness.

4. Can I substitute the sour cream for something else?

If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute the sour cream with Greek yogurt. It adds a creamy texture while keeping the salad slightly healthier.

5. Can I use a different cheese besides cotija?

Yes, you can use crumbled feta cheese or Parmesan as a substitute for cotija if it’s not available. Cotija has a crumbly texture and salty flavor, so choose a cheese with a similar profile.

6. How do I make this salad spicier?

If you like it spicy, add more chili powder, cayenne pepper, or diced fresh jalapeños to the salad for an extra kick.

7. Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh corn?

Yes, frozen corn works perfectly in this salad. Just cook and drain it before mixing with the other ingredients.

8. Can I make this salad dairy-free?

For a dairy-free version, you can use a non-dairy sour cream alternative and skip the cotija cheese or use a dairy-free cheese substitute.

9. How can I make this salad more filling?

To make it more filling, you can add some grilled chicken, shrimp, or black beans for extra protein.

Conclusion

This Mexican Street Corn Salad is a perfect mix of creamy, tangy, and spicy, making it a delicious side dish or snack for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it at a summer BBQ, a family dinner, or as a refreshing snack, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. With the combination of sweet corn, tangy lime, and creamy goodness, this vibrant salad will become a new favorite!

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