Name: Mexican Street Corn Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 18 min
Ingredients: 4 ears fresh corn (husked); Extra-virgin olive oil (for brushing); 1.5 tablespoons mayo (or vegan mayo); 1 clove garlic (minced); 1 lime (zest and juice); ⅓ cup scallions (chopped); ¼ cup Cotija cheese (or feta, crumbled); ¼ cup fresh cilantro (finely chopped); ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika (or chili powder); 1 pepper jalapeño (diced); ¼ teaspoon sea salt

Introduction to Mexican Street Corn Salad

If you’ve ever wandered through a bustling Mexican market or street fair, you’ve likely encountered elote, or Mexican street corn—grilled corn on the cob slathered with creamy sauces, cheese, and spices. Now, imagine taking that delightful flavor and transforming it into a vibrant salad: enter Mexican Street Corn Salad! This dish captures the essence of elote in a fresh and easy-to-serve format, making it the perfect choice for summer barbecues, picnics, or even as a side for your weeknight dinner.

So, what makes Mexican Street Corn Salad so special? It beautifully combines sweet, charred corn with tangy lime juice, creamy mayonnaise (or its vegan counterpart), and a hint of heat from jalapeños. The addition of fresh cilantro and crumbled Cotija cheese elevates the dish, offering a burst of flavor in every bite.

Plus, making this salad is a breeze! You can whip it up in just a few minutes, making it an ideal recipe for those busy weekdays. If you're eager to dive into the magic of Mexican Street Corn Salad, grab some fresh ingredients, and let’s explore the recipe together! For more on the benefits of fresh corn, check out this USDA article on its nutritional profile.

Ingredients for Mexican Street Corn Salad

Creating a delicious Mexican Street Corn Salad is all about using fresh, high-quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delightful dish that's perfect for summer gatherings.

Fresh Corn

4 ears fresh corn, husked: The star of the show! Look for corn with bright green husks and plump kernels. For more on choosing corn, you can check out this guide on fresh produce selection.

Creamy Base

1½ tablespoons mayo (or vegan mayo): This adds a creamy texture. You can also use Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
1 garlic clove, minced: For that aromatic kick that enhances flavors.

Zesty Elements

Zest and juice of 1 lime: This will brighten up the salad. Lime's acidity complements the sweetness of the corn beautifully.

Flavor Boosters

⅓ cup chopped scallions: These add a mild onion flavor without overwhelming the dish.
¼ cup crumbled Cotija or feta cheese: For a salty, creamy element that binds all the flavors together.
¼ cup finely chopped fresh cilantro: Adds freshness that balances the spices.

Spice It Up

¼ teaspoon smoked paprika or chili powder: These spices add depth and warmth to the salad.
1 diced jalapeño pepper: For some heat! If you like it mild, feel free to adjust the amount to your taste.

Seasoning

¼ teaspoon sea salt: Essential for enhancing all those wonderful flavors.

With these ingredients, you're well on your way to making a Mexican Street Corn Salad that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Happy cooking!

Preparing Mexican Street Corn Salad

Gather all the ingredients

Before diving into the delicious world of Mexican Street Corn Salad, the first step is to gather all the essential ingredients. This recipe shines with fresh produce and bold flavors, so quality matters! Here’s what you’ll need:

4 ears of fresh corn, husked
Extra-virgin olive oil for brushing
1½ tablespoons of mayo (feel free to go vegan!)
1 minced garlic clove
Zest and juice of 1 lime
⅓ cup of chopped scallions
¼ cup of crumbled Cotija or feta cheese
¼ cup of finely chopped fresh cilantro
¼ teaspoon of smoked paprika or chili powder
1 diced jalapeño pepper
¼ teaspoon of sea salt

Once you have everything prepped, it’s time to bring this salad to life!

Preparing the corn for grilling

To get that authentic street corn flavor, you’ll need to grill your corn! Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. Brush each ear of corn lightly with extra-virgin olive oil to create a caramelized crust while grilling. Place the corn on the grill, turning every couple of minutes until those beautiful char marks appear. This should take about 2 minutes per side. When done, remove them from the heat and let them cool slightly before handling.

Making the dressing

While your corn is grilling, it’s the perfect time to whip up a zesty dressing. In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayo, minced garlic, lime zest, and the juice of the lime. This creamy base not only complements the corn but also adds a delightful tang. Many enthusiasts recommend lime juice as a key ingredient in Mexican Street Corn Salad to elevate those fresh and vibrant flavors.

Grilling and mixing

Once your corn has cooled, carefully slice the kernels off the cob and add them to the dressing you've prepared. Next, toss in the chopped scallions, crumbled cheese, cilantro, smoked paprika, diced jalapeño, and sea salt. Mix everything gently, so the corn stays in its golden forms while ensuring every bite is packed with Mexican flair.

Serving the salad

Now for the best part — serving this vibrant, fresh salad! You can enjoy it immediately, or if you prefer, let it chill in the fridge for a bit to meld those flavors even further. Serve it in a beautiful bowl, garnished with extra cilantro or cheese if desired. This salad works wonders alongside grilled chicken, fish, or even as a stand-alone dish at your next summer gathering.

Transform your next get-together with this stunning Mexican Street Corn Salad! It's not just a side; it's a conversation starter filled with flavor, freshness, and a touch of summer. Happy cooking!

Variations on Mexican Street Corn Salad

Vegan Mexican Street Corn Salad

If you're looking to make a vegan version of this delightful dish, simply swap out the Cotija cheese for vegan cheese or omit it entirely. You can still enjoy the creamy texture by using a high-quality vegan mayo. This variation keeps all the vibrant flavors while being completely plant-based. Add avocado slices for an extra layer of richness!

Spicy Mexican Street Corn Salad

For those who like to kick things up a notch, a spicy Mexican street corn salad is a perfect choice. Increase the amount of diced jalapeño for more heat, or add a few pinches of cayenne pepper to the mix. Another fun twist is to toss in chopped chipotle peppers in adobo for a smoky flavor that complements the corn beautifully. You might even consider adding some hot sauce to really turn up the flavor dial!

Feel free to experiment—making your own version of Mexican street corn salad is part of the fun!

Cooking Tips and Notes for Mexican Street Corn Salad

Creating the perfect Mexican Street Corn Salad is all about fresh ingredients and great preparation. Here are some helpful tips to elevate your dish:

Choose Fresh Corn: The sweeter and fresher the corn, the better your salad will be. Look for corn with bright green husks and plump, moist kernels.
Grill for Flavor: Grilling the corn adds a delightful smokiness. Keep an eye on it and turn it often to prevent burning.
Customize Your Heat: Want more spice? Try roasting the jalapeño alongside the corn. For a milder flavor, remove the seeds before dicing.
Make Ahead: This salad tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld, so feel free to prepare it in advance and keep it chilled until serving.

For more tips on grilling techniques, check out Serious Eats. Enjoy crafting your delicious Mexican Street Corn Salad!

Serving Suggestions for Mexican Street Corn Salad

When you're ready to enjoy your Mexican Street Corn Salad, consider these tasty serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

Pairing with Proteins

For a satisfying main course, serve this salad alongside grilled chicken or white fish. It also shines when paired with turkey bacon for a delightful crunch. If you're looking for something more substantial, chicken ham adds a savory depth.

Make it a Meal

Transform your salad into a full lunch by mixing it into a wrap with fresh greens or using it as a side for tacos. It’s a fantastic topping for nachos or on a burrito bowl for that extra burst of flavor.

Freshness Matters

To keep your Mexican Street Corn Salad vibrant, serve it freshly made. However, if you want to prepare ahead, store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container. The flavors will marry beautifully, making it even more delicious after a few hours.

For more serving ideas and variations, check out resources like Food Network or Serious Eats. Enjoy your vibrant journey into culinary delight!

Time details for Mexican Street Corn Salad

Preparation time

This vibrant Mexican Street Corn Salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare. It's a quick and enjoyable process that sets the stage for a delightful summer gathering.

Cooking time

Grilling the corn is where the magic happens, and it will take just 8 minutes. A quick turn on medium-high heat gives the corn those beautiful char marks that add a smoky flavor.

Total time

In total, you're looking at 18 minutes from start to finish! Perfect for a last-minute barbecue side or a spontaneous weeknight dinner. Enjoy!

For more tips on how to elevate your grilling game, check out this grilling guide.

Nutritional Information for Mexican Street Corn Salad

When enjoying a delicious bowl of Mexican Street Corn Salad, it’s good to know what you’re savoring. Here's a quick rundown of the nutritional benefits per serving:

Calories

This refreshing salad packs in approximately 210 calories, making it a delightful yet guilt-free summer side.

Protein

You'll find about 5 grams of protein per serving, thanks to the combination of corn and cheese, which helps keep you feeling satisfied.

Sodium

With roughly 200 milligrams of sodium, this dish is flavorful but still respectful of your dietary needs.

For more insights on making health-conscious choices, check out resources from the American Heart Association. Enjoy your meal without the worry!

FAQs about Mexican Street Corn Salad

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! Mexican Street Corn Salad is perfect for prepping ahead. You can grill the corn and prepare the dressing a day in advance. Just toss everything together right before serving to maintain that fresh crunch. Chilling it for a few hours can also enhance the flavors, making it even more delicious.

How can I store leftover Mexican Street Corn Salad?

Got leftovers? No problem! Store the salad in an airtight container in the fridge, and it should last about 3 days. You may notice the dressing thickens as it sits; just give it a quick stir and feel free to add a splash of lime juice to refresh it.

What can I serve with Mexican Street Corn Salad?

This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats like chicken or turkey bacon, and it complements tacos beautifully. Consider serving it alongside spicy shrimp or fish for a vibrant summer feast. Your guests will love it, and you'll have a delightful spread that's easy to impress with!

For more tips on pairing sides with your favorite dishes, check out this guide on creating amazing summer meals.

Conclusion on Mexican Street Corn Salad

In summary, Mexican Street Corn Salad is not just a side dish; it's a celebration of flavors that captures the essence of summer. Perfect for barbecues or simply a weeknight meal, this dish is versatile and easy to prepare. Don’t miss out on bringing a taste of Mexico to your table!