Mexican street corn salad is a vibrant and delicious dish that embodies the flavors of summer. This salad combines sweet corn with creamy, tangy elements, making it perfect for barbecues, potlucks, or casual dinners. The unique combination of smoky and spicy tastes will impress your guests. With its colorful presentation and fresh ingredients, it’s an ideal side dish for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This Mexican street corn salad takes only 15 minutes to prepare, making it a perfect last-minute addition to your meal.
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of sweet corn, zesty lime, and tangy cotija cheese creates a delightful burst of flavor in every bite.
- Versatile Dish: Serve it warm or cold! This salad pairs well with grilled meats or as a standalone vegetarian option.
- Fresh Ingredients: Made with fresh corn and herbs, this dish brings a taste of summer right to your table.
- Customizable: Adjust the spice level with more or fewer jalapeños to suit your preferences.
Tools and Preparation
Gathering the right tools can make preparing your Mexican street corn salad easier. Here’s what you’ll need:
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Grill or Skillet
- Sharp Knife
- Mixing Bowl
- Spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Grill or Skillet: These are essential for charring the corn, which adds depth to the salad’s flavor.
- Sharp Knife: A sharp knife will help you easily cut the kernels off the cob without any hassle.
- Mixing Bowl: A large mixing bowl ensures that you have enough space to combine all the ingredients thoroughly.
Ingredients
Mexican street corn salad has the perfect balance of smoky, spicy, tangy and creamy flavors. It’s light, colorful, and ideal for summer grilling.
For the Salad
- 4 ears fresh sweet corn, husks removed (about 4-5 cups of corn)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup diced red onion
- 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup crumbled cotija cheese (or feta), plus more for garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro, plus more for garnish
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
How to Make Mexican Street Corn Salad
Step 1: Grill the Corn
Brush the corn with olive oil. Grill over medium-high heat, turning occasionally until lightly charred on all sides. Let cool slightly before cutting the kernels off the cobs into a large bowl.
Step 2: Prepare Alternative Corn Option
Alternatively, cut the kernels off the cobs or use frozen/canned corn (thawed and drained). Pan-fry in a large skillet over medium-high heat until lightly charred. Let cool slightly then transfer to a large bowl.
Step 3: Mix Ingredients
Add the diced red onion, jalapeño, garlic, mayonnaise, cotija cheese, lime juice, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and cilantro to the bowl. Toss until everything is evenly combined and well coated.
Step 4: Taste and Adjust Seasonings
Taste your salad and adjust seasonings if needed. Transfer to a serving bowl and garnish with additional cotija cheese, a sprinkle of chili powder, and extra fresh cilantro if desired. Serve warm or at room temperature. Enjoy!
How to Serve Mexican Street Corn Salad
Mexican street corn salad is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or looking for a tasty side for your weeknight dinner, this salad adds a burst of flavor to any meal.
As a Side Dish
- Pair it with grilled meats like chicken or steak for a delightful contrast.
- Serve alongside tacos or burritos to complement the flavors of your Mexican feast.
In a Wrap
- Use it as a filling in tortillas or wraps for a quick lunch option.
- Add some protein like grilled chicken or beans to make it more filling.
As a Dip
- Enjoy it as a dip with tortilla chips for a fun appetizer.
- Mix in additional spices or ingredients to customize the flavor profile.
On Top of Greens
- Serve it over mixed greens for a refreshing salad.
- Drizzle with extra lime juice for added zest.
How to Perfect Mexican Street Corn Salad
To elevate your Mexican street corn salad, consider these helpful tips. Each suggestion will enhance the flavors and presentation of this delightful dish.
- Choose fresh corn: Fresh sweet corn brings the best flavor and texture. Look for bright yellow kernels when selecting your corn.
- Add more spices: Experiment with additional spices like cumin or cayenne pepper for extra kick. Adjust according to your taste preferences.
- Use high-quality cheese: Cotija cheese is traditional, but using good-quality feta or even queso fresco can add richness. Ensure it’s crumbled well for even distribution.
- Serve chilled: For the best experience, let the salad chill in the fridge before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Garnish generously: Don’t skimp on garnishes! Extra cotija, chili powder, and cilantro on top make it visually appealing and delicious.
- Consider toppings: Add avocado slices or diced tomatoes on top just before serving for additional texture and flavor.
Best Side Dishes for Mexican Street Corn Salad
This Mexican street corn salad shines alongside various side dishes that complement its vibrant flavors. Here are some great options to consider:
- Grilled Chicken Tacos: Juicy chicken marinated in spices, grilled to perfection, and served in soft tortillas make an excellent pairing.
- Black Bean Rice: A hearty dish of rice mixed with black beans, seasoned with lime and cilantro, provides balance to the salad’s creaminess.
- Spicy Shrimp Skewers: Skewered shrimp marinated in chili and lime bring heat and seafood flair that matches well with the corn salad.
- Avocado Salad: Light and creamy avocado salad enhances the freshness of the corn while adding healthy fats.
- Pico de Gallo: Fresh salsa made from tomatoes, onion, cilantro, and lime offers a zesty contrast that pairs nicely with the salad’s flavors.
- Corn Tortillas: Warmed corn tortillas serve as an excellent base for scooping up both the salad and other sides at your table.
- Chips and Guacamole: Crunchy tortilla chips paired with creamy guacamole offer a satisfying texture contrast alongside your meal.
- Quesadillas: Cheesy quesadillas filled with peppers or mushrooms provide comfort food vibes that everyone will enjoy.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Mexican street corn salad, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to help you get it just right.
Using Frozen Corn: While frozen corn can be a convenient alternative, it often lacks the fresh flavor and texture of grilled or pan-fried corn. If you must use frozen, ensure it’s fully thawed and drained for the best results.
Skipping the Lime Juice: Lime juice adds essential tanginess to the salad. Don’t skip it! Always taste your salad before serving; if it’s lacking brightness, a little extra lime juice can elevate the flavors.
Overcooking the Corn: Grilling or frying corn for too long can result in mushy kernels. Aim for a light char to enhance flavor without losing texture. Watch closely while cooking!
Not Seasoning Enough: Failing to adjust seasonings can lead to blandness. After combining all ingredients, taste and tweak the salt and spices as needed for a well-balanced dish.
Ignoring Fresh Herbs: Fresh cilantro brightens up the salad significantly. If you’re not a fan of cilantro, consider using fresh parsley or green onions instead for an equally vibrant flavor.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- item Store any leftover Mexican street corn salad in an airtight container.
- item It will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
- item To maintain freshness, try not to mix in garnishes until serving.
Freezing Mexican Street Corn Salad
- item Freezing is not recommended due to the creamy ingredients.
- item However, if you choose to freeze it, store it in a freezer-safe container.
- item Use within 1-2 months for optimal flavor and texture.
Reheating Mexican Street Corn Salad
Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the salad in an even layer on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: Place the desired amount in a microwave-safe bowl. Cover loosely and heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Stovetop: Pour into a skillet over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through, about 5 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about Mexican street corn salad that may help clarify any doubts.
What is Mexican Street Corn Salad?
Mexican street corn salad is a flavorful dish made from grilled corn mixed with creamy dressing, cheese, spices, and fresh herbs.
Can I make Mexican Street Corn Salad ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare it a few hours ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just add any garnishes right before serving for freshness.
What can I substitute for cotija cheese?
If you can’t find cotija cheese, crumbled feta works as an excellent alternative due to its similar texture and salty flavor.
How spicy is this Mexican Street Corn Salad?
The spiciness mainly comes from jalapeño peppers. You can adjust according to your preference by using less or omitting them altogether.
Is there a vegan option for this recipe?
Absolutely! Substitute mayonnaise with vegan mayo and replace cotija cheese with vegan cheese alternatives or omit it entirely for a plant-based version.
Final Thoughts
Mexican street corn salad is not only delicious but also versatile enough to complement various dishes. Perfect as a side or main dish at summer gatherings, this recipe balances smoky sweetness with tangy creaminess beautifully. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting spices according to your taste preferences. Give this refreshing dish a try—you won’t be disappointed!
Mexican Street Corn Salad
Mexican street corn salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that captures the essence of summer in every bite. This salad features sweet, grilled corn combined with creamy mayonnaise, zesty lime, and crumbled cotija cheese, creating a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Ideal for barbecues, picnics, or as a side at family dinners, this quick-to-prepare recipe is also highly customizable—add more spice if you like it hot or keep it mild for the kids. With its colorful presentation and delightful taste, it’s sure to impress your guests and become a staple in your summer recipe rotation.
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 4 ears fresh sweet corn
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup diced red onion
- 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup crumbled cotija cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Grill the corn brushed with olive oil over medium-high heat until charred. Let cool then cut kernels into a bowl.
- Mix in red onion, jalapeño, garlic, mayonnaise, cotija cheese, lime juice, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and chopped cilantro until well combined.
- Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Garnish with extra cotija and cilantro before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Keywords: Use fresh corn for the best flavor; frozen can be used but may not provide the same texture. Adjust spice levels to your preference by modifying the amount of jalapeño. This salad can be prepared ahead of time; just add garnishes right before serving.