Name: Mexican Street Corn Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 4 ears fresh corn (husks removed); extra-virgin olive oil (for brushing); 1.5 tablespoons mayo (or vegan mayo); 1 clove garlic (minced); 1 unit lime (zest and juice); 0.33 cup scallions (chopped); 0.25 cup Cotija cheese (or feta cheese); 0.25 cup fresh cilantro (finely chopped); 0.25 teaspoon smoked paprika (or chili powder); 1 unit jalapeño pepper (diced); 0.25 teaspoon sea salt

Introduction to Mexican Street Corn Salad

Summer is the perfect time to enjoy light, vibrant dishes, and nothing embodies this better than Mexican Street Corn Salad. Inspired by the popular street food known as elote, this salad packs plenty of flavor, combining sweet grilled corn with a creamy, tangy dressing. It’s an ideal side for barbecues, picnics, or even a casual weeknight dinner.

Why Mexican Street Corn Salad is the Ultimate Summer Dish?

This salad is incredibly versatile, allowing you to serve it alongside grilled meats or as a stand-alone vegetarian dish. The charred sweetness of fresh corn, combined with zesty lime and rich Cotija cheese, makes every bite a delicious experience. Not only is it quick and easy to prepare, but it also celebrates the best seasonal produce during the warmer months, giving you reasons to gather with friends and family.

Did you know that corn is a staple in Mexican cuisine, often regarded for its nutritional benefits? This salad takes that goodness and elevates it into something exciting and shareable. You can even customize it by adding ingredients like avocado or swapping cheeses, ensuring everyone at your gathering will find something they love. With just a handful of ingredients, you’ll have a stunning dish that brings joy to any summer table.

Ready to dive into the recipe? Let’s make some Mexican Street Corn Salad!

Ingredients for Mexican Street Corn Salad

Creating a vibrant and flavorful Mexican Street Corn Salad is a fantastic way to bring a taste of summer to your table. Let’s dive into the simple yet delightful ingredients that will make this dish shine!

Fresh Corn: Start with 4 ears of sweet and succulent corn; it’s the star of the show! Fresh is key here for that juicy crunch.
Olive Oil: A light brush of extra-virgin olive oil helps achieve a beautiful char on the corn.
Mayo: You’ll want 1½ tablespoons of mayo, or if you're looking for a plant-based option, go for vegan mayo.
Garlic: One minced garlic clove packs in a punch of flavor.
Lime Juice and Zest: The zest and juice of 1 lime will add a refreshing brightness that contrasts beautifully with the creamy ingredients.
Scallions: Add ⅓ cup of chopped scallions for a mild oniony flavor and a pop of color.
Cotija Cheese: For that classic touch, go with ¼ cup of crumbled Cotija cheese, or substitute with feta if needed.
Cilantro: Freshness abounds with ¼ cup of finely chopped cilantro.
Spices: A dash of smoked paprika (or chili powder) and sea salt adds depth and seasoning.
Jalapeño: Want some heat? Dice up 1 jalapeño for a spicy kick.

With these ingredients, you’re well on your way to crafting a delicious Mexican Street Corn Salad that will impress your pals! For more tips on preparing corn, check out this guide on grilling corn for the best results.

Step-by-Step Preparation for Mexican Street Corn Salad

Creating your own Mexican Street Corn Salad is a delightful culinary adventure that adds a burst of flavor to any gathering. Let's break down the steps together to ensure your dish is both delicious and visually appealing.

Prepping the Corn

Start by selecting fresh corn on the cob. Look for bright green husks and plump kernels. To prep the corn, husk the ears and remove any silk. This step not only prepares the corn for grilling but also allows those sweet kernels to shine through in your salad. If you're short on time, pre-husked corn can often be found at your local farmers’ market.

Grilling the Corn

With the corn all set, it’s time for the fun part: grilling! Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Brush the ears of corn lightly with extra-virgin olive oil to prevent sticking and to enhance that smoky flavor. Place the corn on the grill, allowing it to cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side. You’re aiming for those beautiful char marks that add a depth of flavor to your Mexican Street Corn Salad. Once grilled, remove the corn and let it cool slightly before slicing the kernels off the cob.

Making the Dressing

While the corn is cooling, you can whip up a quick and zesty dressing. In a large bowl, combine 1½ tablespoons of mayo (or vegan mayo for a plant-based version), one minced garlic clove, the zest and juice of one lime, and a sprinkle of sea salt. This is where the magic happens! The lime juice adds brightness, while the mayo creates a creamy consistency. Stir everything together until well combined, and prepare for the next step.

Mixing the Salad

It’s mixing time! Carefully slice the corn kernels off the cob, then add them to the bowl with the dressing. Toss in ⅓ cup of chopped scallions, ¼ cup of crumbled Cotija cheese (or feta for a different flavor), ¼ cup of finely chopped cilantro, ¼ teaspoon of smoked paprika, and a diced jalapeño for heat. Mix everything until the corn is beautifully coated in the dressing. Adjust the seasoning to your taste, and consider adding a touch more lime juice if you like a zing!

Serving the Salad

This bright, colorful Mexican Street Corn Salad is best served fresh. You can enjoy it warm, or you can chill it for about 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld. It pairs perfectly with grilled meats or as a standalone dish at summer picnics. Garnish it with extra cilantro or cheese for a pop of color, making it as visually appealing as it is tasty!

Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ or looking for a side dish to spruce up taco night, this Mexican Street Corn Salad is sure to be a hit. Happy cooking!

For more creative salad recipes, check out Serious Eats for inspiration!

Variations on Mexican Street Corn Salad

Spicy Mexican Street Corn Salad

If you love a kick of heat, this Spicy Mexican Street Corn Salad variation is for you! Simply increase the diced jalapeño and consider adding a dash of cayenne pepper for an extra boost. You can also mix in some chopped serrano peppers for a more intense spice level. This zesty twist will elevate your summer barbecues and impress those spice lovers in your life.

Vegan Mexican Street Corn Salad

Want to enjoy the Mexican Street Corn Salad while keeping it plant-based? Substituting the mayo with an avocado-based cream or vegan mayo creates a creamy texture without animal products. For a cheese alternative, try crumbled tofu feta or nutritional yeast, which adds a cheesy flavor while keeping it vegan. This version keeps all the vibrant flavors while catering to your dietary preferences, making it perfect for gatherings!

Whether you prefer it spicy or vegan, these variations offer delicious ways to enjoy this classic dish. Ready to get cooking?

Cooking Tips and Notes for Mexican Street Corn Salad

Creating the perfect Mexican Street Corn Salad is all about balance and flavor. Here are some essential tips to enhance your dish:

Choosing Corn: Fresh, sweet corn makes a substantial difference. Look for firm, bright yellow kernels. If it's out of season, frozen corn can also work well.
Grilling Technique: When grilling, turn the corn regularly to achieve a lovely char. If you're short on time, you can roast the corn in the oven at 400°F for 20 minutes.
Flavor Tweaks: For an extra kick, consider adding diced red onion or a dash of cumin. A squeeze of fresh lime just before serving elevates the dish brilliantly.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. The flavors deepen after a day, making it even more delicious!

With these tips, your Mexican Street Corn Salad will be a hit at any gathering! For more related recipes, check out BBC Good Food or Serious Eats.

Serving Suggestions for Mexican Street Corn Salad

When it comes to enjoying Mexican Street Corn Salad, there are endless possibilities to elevate this delightful dish. Here are some serving suggestions to consider:

Taco Night Companion: This salad pairs beautifully with your favorite tacos—whether it's chicken, beef, or veggie. It balances flavors and adds a refreshing crunch.
Picnic Delight: Pack it for a summer picnic! Serve alongside grilled chicken ham sandwiches or turkey bacon wraps for a delicious outdoor feast.
Side Dish Star: Make it a side for your barbecue. It's a fantastic complement to grilled vegetables or ribs, enhancing the smoky flavors with its creamy and zesty goodness.
Appetizer Option: Scoop it up with tortilla chips for an easy appetizer, making it perfect for parties or casual get-togethers.

Trying any of these suggestions will make your Mexican Street Corn Salad a hit every time! For more ideas, check out this guide on pairing salads with mains.

Time Breakdown for Mexican Street Corn Salad

Preparation Time

Getting ready to whip up your Mexican Street Corn Salad takes about 15 minutes. This includes husking the corn and gathering all your ingredients. Trust me; this time spent at the beginning pays off when you dive into this flavorful dish!

Cooking Time

Once you start grilling, it’ll take around 10 minutes to achieve those beautiful char marks on the corn. Grilling enhances the flavors, making this salad incredibly irresistible!

Total Time

When you combine both preparation and cooking, you’ll be looking at a total of about 25 minutes. That’s not too shabby for a vibrant side dish that can elevate any summer gathering or weeknight dinner. Enjoy every delicious bite!

Nutritional Facts for Mexican Street Corn Salad

Calories

This tasty Mexican street corn salad packs approximately 210 calories per serving, making it a satisfying yet moderately light side dish perfect for summer gatherings.

Protein

With about 4 grams of protein per serving, this salad is a great way to add a little protein to your meal without weighing you down. The Cotija cheese also contributes to its creamy and savory flavor!

Sodium

Each serving contains roughly 210 mg of sodium. This modest amount ensures you can enjoy the vibrant flavors without worrying about excess salt, especially if you’re watching your intake.

For more insights on balancing healthy meals, check out Healthline’s guide on nutritious eating habits!

FAQs about Mexican Street Corn Salad

Can I make this salad a day in advance?

Absolutely! This Mexican Street Corn Salad can be prepped a day ahead, making it an ideal choice for parties or potlucks. Just prepare the salad as directed, but hold off on mixing the dressing until you're ready to serve. This way, the flavors will stay fresh, and your corn won’t get soggy. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for maximum freshness.

What can I substitute for Cotija cheese?

If you can't find Cotija cheese or prefer a different option, feta cheese is a fantastic substitute. It offers a similar salty, creamy flavor. For a dairy-free choice, try crumbled tofu mixed with a bit of nutritional yeast. Your Mexican Street Corn Salad will still taste delicious with these alternatives!

How can I adjust the spice level?

Want to moderate the heat in your Mexican Street Corn Salad? You can easily adjust the spice level. For a milder version, reduce the amount of diced jalapeño or remove the seeds, where most of the heat resides. If you love spice, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick. Enjoy customizing it to your taste!

For more tips on elevating your summer salads, check out resources from Serious Eats.

Conclusion on Mexican Street Corn Salad

In conclusion, Mexican Street Corn Salad is a delightful blend of sweet, spicy, and creamy elements, making it a staple for any summer gathering. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, it can be tailored to your taste. Enjoy it fresh or as a chilled side; this dish never disappoints!