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Mexican Street Corn Salad

Mexican Street Corn Salad
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Mexican Street Corn Salad is a fresh, zesty, and flavorful dish that combines smoky grilled corn with creamy mayo, tangy lime juice, spicy chili powder, and salty cotija cheese. It’s a versatile and quick-to-make salad perfect for summer gatherings, parties, or as a vibrant side dish that brings authentic Mexican street food flavors to your table.

Ingredients

Scale

Corn

  • 4 ears fresh corn, boiled or grilled

Dressing

  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder or Tajín
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Add-ins

  • 1/2 cup crumbled cotija cheese, plus extra for garnish
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped, plus extra for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Corn: If using fresh corn, boil or preferably grill the ears to develop char marks and smoky flavor. Let the corn cool slightly, then use a sharp knife to slice the kernels off the cob into a large mixing bowl.
  2. Mix the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, fresh lime juice, garlic powder, chili powder, salt, and black pepper until smooth and creamy.
  3. Combine Corn and Dressing: Pour the dressing over the bowl with corn kernels. Stir gently but thoroughly to coat each kernel evenly with the creamy mixture.
  4. Add Cheese and Herbs: Fold in crumbled cotija cheese and chopped cilantro, reserving some for garnish. This adds tanginess and freshness to the salad.
  5. Final Touches and Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning with extra salt, pepper, or lime juice if needed. Garnish with remaining cotija cheese, cilantro, and a light sprinkle of chili powder before serving.

Notes

  • Use fresh, sweet corn in season for the best natural flavors.
  • Grilling the corn adds authentic smoky depth to the salad.
  • Lime juice balances creaminess and can be adjusted for taste.
  • Serve immediately for the best texture; leftovers can be refrigerated up to 2 days but may soften.
  • Use quality cotija cheese for the best flavor; avoid milder substitutes if possible.
  • Dairy-free and vegan options: Use vegan mayo and nutritional yeast or vegan cheese instead of cotija.
  • Adjust the spice level by adding jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or swapping chili powder for smoked paprika for smoky heat.

Nutrition

Keywords: Mexican Street Corn Salad, Elote Salad, Grilled Corn Salad, Summer Salad, Mexican Appetizer, Gluten-Free Salad

Find it online: https://sophiespace.com/mexican-street-corn-salad/