This Easy Mexican Street Corn Salad is a burst of flavors! Made with sweet corn, creamy dressing, and a sprinkle of cheese, it’s the perfect side dish for any meal.
You’ll love how quick it is to whip up! Just mix everything in a bowl, and you’re ready to impress your friends and family. Plus, who doesn’t love a salad that tastes like a fiesta? 🎉
Ingredients & Substitutions
Corn: Fresh corn off the cob is wonderful for sweetness and crunch. If it’s out of season, frozen corn is a great alternative. Just thaw and dry it well to avoid excess moisture.
Cotija Cheese: This cheese adds the perfect salty touch. If you can’t find Cotija, feta cheese is a lovely substitute. It’s crumbly and has a similar salty flavor.
Mayonnaise and Sour Cream: Together, they create a creamy base. If you’re looking for a healthier option, plain Greek yogurt can replace both for a lighter dressing.
Cilantro: This gives a fresh kick to the salad. If you aren’t a fan of cilantro, try using parsley or omit it altogether.
What’s the Best Way to Grill or Sauté Corn?
Grilling or sautéing corn adds a smoky flavor and enhances sweetness, making it a standout in this salad. Here’s how to get it just right:
- If using fresh corn, husk it and remove the silk. To grill, place corn directly on the grill and cook for 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally until charred. To sauté, cut the kernels off and heat in a pan with a little oil over medium-high heat for 5-7 minutes.
- If using frozen corn, simply thaw it first. Pat it dry to remove moisture, then sauté in a pan with a drizzle of oil until slightly charred.
Remember, the goal is a little char on the corn to elevate the salad’s flavor. Don’t rush this part, as it makes a big difference!
Easy Mexican Street Corn Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 cups corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup Cotija cheese, crumbled (or feta as substitute)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1-2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped (optional, for heat)
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 lime, juiced
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Mexican Street Corn Salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare, plus an additional 15-20 minutes to chill for the best flavor. It’s a quick and tasty addition to any meal or a great standalone dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Corn:
Start by preparing the corn. If you’re using fresh corn, you can grill or sauté the corn kernels over medium-high heat until they’re slightly charred (around 5-7 minutes). If you have frozen corn, make sure to thaw it first, then dry it well before cooking it in the same way. This step adds a delicious smoky flavor!
2. Mix the Creamy Dressing:
In a large bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, minced garlic, chili powder, and a good pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything together until it’s smooth and well combined.
3. Combine the Corn & Dressing:
Now, it’s time to add the cooked corn to the bowl with your creamy dressing. Stir well to ensure that all the corn is coated with the delightful mixture.
4. Add the Finishing Touches:
Add in the crumbled Cotija cheese, chopped cilantro, and the jalapeño if you like some heat. Gently mix everything together until well incorporated.
5. Taste and Adjust:
Take a little taste of your salad and adjust the seasoning. You might want to add more lime juice, salt, or chili powder to suit your taste.
6. Chill & Serve:
Cover the salad and chill in the refrigerator for about 15-20 minutes to let all the flavors meld together. This salad can be served as a side dish or even as a topping for tacos or grilled meats. Enjoy every bite!
This recipe captures the classic tangy, creamy, and smoky flavors of Mexican street corn transformed into a refreshing and easy-to-serve salad. Perfect for barbecues, gatherings, or simply enjoying at home!
FAQ for Easy Mexican Street Corn Salad
Can I Use Canned Corn Instead of Fresh or Frozen?
Yes, you can use canned corn if it’s what you have on hand! Just make sure to drain and rinse it well to remove excess sodium and sugars. You can still char it slightly in a pan for added flavor.
How Long Does This Salad Last in the Fridge?
This salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before serving again, as some liquid may separate over time.
How Can I Make It Spicier?
If you love heat, consider adding more jalapeño, a dash of hot sauce, or even some diced chili peppers. You can also sprinkle some cayenne pepper or use spicy Cotija cheese if available!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! This salad can be prepared a few hours in advance. Just keep it refrigerated until you’re ready to serve. Chilling allows the flavors to meld beautifully!
