Name: Mexican Street Corn Salad: Easy and Flavorful Summer Delight
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 4 ears fresh corn (husking required); 1.5 tablespoons mayo (can substitute with vegan mayo); 1 clove garlic (minced); 1 lime (zest and juice); ⅓ cup chopped scallions; ¼ cup crumbled Cotija (can substitute with feta cheese); ¼ cup fresh cilantro (finely chopped); ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika (or chili powder); 1 pepper jalapeño (diced); ¼ teaspoon sea salt; extra-virgin olive oil (for brushing)

Introduction to Mexican Street Corn Salad

What is Mexican Street Corn Salad?

Mexican Street Corn Salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish inspired by the beloved street food known as elote. Traditionally, elote features grilled corn on the cob slathered in a creamy mixture of mayonnaise, lime juice, and Cotija cheese, often topped with chili powder. This salad brings all those delightful flavors together in a bowl, making it not only easy to prepare but also a great side dish or light meal. Imagine biting into sweet, charred corn combined with a burst of zesty lime, aromatic cilantro, and a hint of smokiness — that’s exactly what you get with this refreshing salad!

Why is it a great alternative to fast food?

In today's fast-paced world, finding wholesome meal options can be challenging, especially when cravings hit. This Mexican Street Corn Salad serves as a delicious alternative to greasy fast food. Packed with fresh ingredients, it provides a satisfying crunch and a medley of flavors that are hard to resist. Not only is it rich in fiber and vitamins, but it also lets you control the ingredients and portion sizes. You can whip it up in minutes using healthy staples found in your pantry, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or gatherings. Want to impress your friends? This dish is not only nutritious but also a real showstopper on any table!

With its delightful mix of flavors and textures, it’s no wonder this salad is rapidly becoming a favorite for busy young professionals looking to spice up their meals.

For more delicious Mexican-inspired recipes, check out Serious Eats or Love and Lemons!

Ingredients for Mexican Street Corn Salad

Main ingredients you need for the perfect salad

To whip up a delicious Mexican Street Corn Salad, start with these fresh ingredients:

4 ears of fresh corn, husked for that sweet, crunchy texture.
Extra-virgin olive oil for brushing the corn, adding richness.
1½ tablespoons mayo (or go vegan with vegan mayo) for creaminess.
1 minced garlic clove to elevate the flavor.
Zest and juice of 1 lime for that zesty kick.
⅓ cup chopped scallions for freshness.
¼ cup crumbled Cotija (or feta cheese, if you prefer).
¼ cup finely chopped fresh cilantro for an aromatic touch.
¼ teaspoon smoked paprika for a hint of smokiness.
1 diced jalapeño pepper, if you like a bit of heat.
¼ teaspoon sea salt to enhance all the flavors.

Optional ingredients for customization

Feel free to get creative! Consider adding:

Chopped bell peppers for extra color.
Avocado for creaminess and richness.
A drizzle of hot sauce for an extra kick.
Black beans for protein and texture.

These optional ingredients can help you tailor your Mexican Street Corn Salad to what you and your guests enjoy most! What are your favorite additions?

Preparing Mexican Street Corn Salad

Embarking on the delicious journey of making Mexican Street Corn Salad is an experience that combines vibrant flavors and a bit of grilling magic. Follow these simple steps to create a salad that’s bound to impress at any gathering.

Preheat the grill

First things first, let’s get that grill warmed up! Preheating your grill to medium-high heat is crucial for achieving those perfect char marks on the corn. Take a moment to prep your grill; if you have a charcoal grill, make sure the coals are glowing and ready to go. For gas grills, simply ignite it and adjust to the desired heat. While it warms up, you can grab your fresh corn—don’t forget to husk it!

Grill the corn to perfection

Now that our grill is ready, it’s time for the corn to shine! Brush each ear of corn lightly with extra-virgin olive oil to enhance those grill marks and add a subtle flavor. Place the corn on the grill and let it cook for about 2 minutes on each side. You’re looking for that beautiful char that adds depth to your salad. Once grilled, remove the corn and let it cool slightly while you prepare the dressing.

Mix the dressing

In a large mixing bowl, combine your base ingredients to create a creamy and zesty dressing. Start with 1½ tablespoons of mayo (you can use vegan mayo for a plant-based option), minced garlic, and the vibrant zest and juice of one lime. This mixture is what will pull your salad together! Mix it well until it’s nice and creamy. The freshness from the lime and the richness from the mayo create an irresistible flavor combination.

Assemble the salad

Now that we have our beautifully grilled corn and delicious dressing, it’s time to assemble our Mexican street corn salad. Cut the kernels off the corn and add them to the bowl with the dressing. Let’s check off the ingredients: add in chopped scallions, crumbled Cotija cheese, fresh cilantro, and those optional jalapeños for a spicy kick. A dash of smoked paprika or chili powder will add an extra layer of flavor that truly encapsulates the essence of Mexican cuisine. Stir everything together gently until every kernel is coated in that luscious dressing.

Taste and adjust for flavor

Before serving, take a moment to taste your creation. This is the fun part! Adjust the seasoning to your liking by adding a bit more salt or lime juice if desired. Perhaps you prefer more heat? Go ahead and add a sprinkle more of those diced jalapeños. Remember, this salad is all about personal taste, and you want it to shine!

And there you have it—your Mexican Street Corn Salad is ready to be enjoyed! Perfect as a side dish or a light entree, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any summer barbecue or picnic. Happy cooking!

Variations on Mexican Street Corn Salad

Spicy Version with More Jalapeños

If you crave a kick in your Mexican Street Corn Salad, consider adding more jalapeños! You can either increase the quantity of diced jalapeños or opt for pickled ones to enhance the flavor. This fiery twist elevates the dish, making it perfect for spicy food lovers. Each bite packs a punch, so be prepared for a burst of heat that complements the sweet corn beautifully.

Vegan Option Without Cheese

Want to enjoy this dish while keeping it plant-based? Simply omit the cotija cheese or swap it for a vegan alternative. A sprinkle of nutritional yeast can add a cheesy flavor without dairy, keeping the essence of Mexican Street Corn Salad intact. You won't miss the cheese, I promise—it still delivers on flavor and freshness while keeping things inclusive for everyone!

By experimenting with these variations, you’ll discover new favorite ways to enjoy this vibrant, delicious salad!

Cooking Tips and Notes for Mexican Street Corn Salad

Best Practices for Grilling Corn

Grilling corn brings out its natural sweetness and enhances the overall flavor of your Mexican Street Corn Salad. Here are some tips to nail it:

Freshness Matters: Choose corn that is bright yellow and has moist, green husks. Fresh corn will give the best flavor.
Prepping the Corn: Husk the corn and remove any silk. Brush it lightly with extra-virgin olive oil for an added layer of flavor.
Grill Time: Grill the corn for about 2 minutes on each side, rotating until you see those beautiful char marks.

How to Store Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftovers of your Mexican Street Corn Salad, don’t fret! Just follow these simple steps:

Refrigeration: Place the salad in an airtight container and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Flavor Boost: The flavors will meld over time, so it can be even tastier the next day! Just give it a good stir before serving.
Avoid Freezing: Best enjoyed fresh, as freezing may alter the texture of the veggies and corn.

With these tips, you'll have a delicious salad to enjoy and share with friends!

Serving suggestions for Mexican Street Corn Salad

Perfect pairings for your salad

Elevate your Mexican Street Corn Salad by pairing it with delicious grilled proteins. Think juicy chicken tacos or turkey bacon sandwiches for a heartier meal. You could also serve it alongside a refreshing cilantro-lime rice or a zesty quinoa dish to complement those vibrant flavors. For an exciting twist, consider adding some spicy grilled shrimp or fish for an extra layer of taste.

Creative ways to serve it

Get creative with presentation! Serve your Mexican Street Corn Salad in taco shells for a fun handheld option or in a large bowl topped with crispy beef strips for a crowd-pleasing centerpiece. You can also use it as a topping for nachos or a filling for burritos. Don't forget to sprinkle some extra cotija cheese and fresh lime juice just before serving for that irresistible finish. Check out more serving ideas for your salad on Love and Lemons.

Time Details for Mexican Street Corn Salad

Preparation Time

Getting your ingredients ready for this Mexican Street Corn Salad takes about 15 minutes. This includes husking the corn and chopping fresh veggies to ensure everything is prepped and easy to mix.

Cooking Time

The perfect grilling of the corn on a medium-high grill should only take around 10 minutes. You want those delicious char marks without overcooking!

Total Time

In just 25 minutes, you can whip up this delightful salad that’s perfect for summer barbecues or a quick dinner side. It’s as rewarding to make as it is to enjoy!

For more tips on grilling corn, check out this guide to grilling corn to perfect your technique.

Nutritional Information for Mexican Street Corn Salad

When enjoying this vibrant and flavorful Mexican Street Corn Salad, you might be curious about its nutritional profile. Here’s a quick glance at what you’ll find per serving:

Calories

Each serving packs about 200 calories, making it a satisfying addition to your meal without overwhelming your calorie count.

Protein

You'll get approximately 5 grams of protein, primarily from the corn and cheese. This is a great way to add some nutritional balance to your dish.

Sodium

The salad contains around 250 milligrams of sodium, depending on the salt and cheese used. To keep it heart-healthy, you can adjust the salt to your taste.

Embrace the delightful blend of flavors and nutrients in this Mexican Street Corn Salad, perfect for your next gathering or a quick weekday meal! For more in-depth details on nutritional values, check out resources like USDA FoodData Central or consult a registered dietitian.

FAQs about Mexican Street Corn Salad

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! Mexican Street Corn Salad tastes even better once the flavors have melded together. You can prepare it a few hours in advance and store it in the fridge. Just give it a gentle stir before serving, and you might want to add a little extra lime juice for that fresh kick!

What can I use if I don't have Cotija cheese?

If Cotija cheese is hard to find or you don't have any on hand, fear not! Feta cheese makes an excellent substitute, providing a similar texture and salty flavor. Alternatively, you could try using crumbled goat cheese for a different, yet delightful twist to your Mexican Street Corn Salad.

How do I adjust the spice level?

To tweak the spice level, simply adjust the amount of jalapeño you add. If you're looking for a milder version, remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapeño. For a bolder taste, toss in an extra diced jalapeño or even add some chili powder for an extra kick. Remember, it’s your salad—you control the heat!

Conclusion on Mexican Street Corn Salad

In summary, Mexican Street Corn Salad is a vibrant, flavorful dish that captures the essence of street food in a delightful way. Perfect as a side or a main, it celebrates fresh ingredients and bold flavors. Enjoy it at gatherings, picnics, or simply as a tasty snack!