Few dishes scream “party” and “comfort” at the same time quite like Mexican Street Corn Salad. Inspired by elote, the beloved Mexican street food, this salad transforms the traditional roasted corn-on-the-cob slathered in creamy, tangy, and savory toppings into a vibrant, shareable dish. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue, packing for a picnic, or looking for a zesty side dish to brighten your weeknight dinner, this recipe has you covered.

Why Mexican Street Corn Salad is a Must-Try

Imagine the smoky flavor of charred corn, the creaminess of a lime-kissed dressing, and the punch of spices and cheese—all in one bowl. This salad is a delightful medley of textures and flavors, offering everything from sweet and tangy to savory and spicy. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile, easy to prepare, and a hit with kids and adults alike.

Ingredients for Mexican Street Corn Salad

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this crowd-pleaser:

Ingredient	Quantity
Fresh corn (grilled or roasted, kernels removed)	4–5 ears (or 3 cups)
Mayonnaise	1/3 cup
Sour cream (or Greek yogurt for a lighter version)	1/3 cup
Lime juice	2 tablespoons
Chili powder	1 teaspoon
Smoked paprika	1/2 teaspoon
Cotija cheese (crumbled)	1/2 cup
Fresh cilantro (chopped)	1/4 cup
Jalapeño (seeded and finely diced)	1 (optional)
Garlic (minced)	2 cloves
Salt and pepper	To taste
Green onions (sliced)	2–3 stalks

Pro Tip: If fresh corn isn’t available, you can use frozen corn (defrosted and patted dry) or canned corn (drained and roasted in a skillet for a charred effect).

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Corn

• If using fresh corn, grill the cobs over medium-high heat until lightly charred on all sides. Allow them to cool, then slice the kernels off the cob.
• For frozen or canned corn, sauté it in a dry skillet over medium heat until lightly browned.

2. Mix the Dressing

• In a large bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, minced garlic, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth and creamy.

3. Combine the Ingredients

• Add the charred corn kernels to the dressing, along with Cotija cheese, cilantro, green onions, and jalapeño (if using). Toss gently to ensure the corn is evenly coated.

4. Chill and Serve

• Cover the bowl and let the salad chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
• Before serving, garnish with additional Cotija cheese, cilantro, and a sprinkle of chili powder for extra flair.

Customizing Your Mexican Street Corn Salad

1. Adjust the Heat Level

Not a fan of spice? Skip the jalapeño and use mild paprika instead of smoked paprika. Prefer it fiery? Add a dash of cayenne pepper or chopped serrano peppers.

2. Make it Dairy-Free

Replace the mayonnaise and sour cream with vegan alternatives, and use a dairy-free cheese substitute to make the recipe vegan-friendly.

3. Add Protein

Transform this salad into a hearty main dish by mixing in grilled chicken, shrimp, or black beans.

4. Experiment with Add-Ins

• Diced avocado for creaminess.
• Cherry tomatoes for a burst of freshness.
• Crushed tortilla chips for crunch.

Tips for Perfect Mexican Street Corn Salad

• Char the Corn: Achieving a slight char on the corn kernels enhances the smoky flavor and mimics the taste of traditional elote.
• Don’t Skip the Lime: Lime juice adds essential acidity that balances the richness of the dressing.
• Serve Fresh: While the salad can be refrigerated, it’s best enjoyed within 1–2 days to maintain its texture and flavor.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	250 kcal
Protein	6 g
Fat	14 g
Carbohydrates	26 g
Fiber	3 g
Sodium	400 mg

Note: Nutritional values may vary based on ingredient brands and portion sizes.

FAQs About Mexican Street Corn Salad

1. Can I make Mexican Street Corn Salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it up to a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge and add fresh garnishes before serving.

2. What can I serve with this salad?

This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, tacos, quesadillas, or as a side dish at a barbecue or potluck.

3. Is Cotija cheese necessary?

While Cotija adds authentic flavor, you can substitute it with feta or Parmesan cheese if needed.

4. How do I store leftovers?

Place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to two days. Avoid freezing, as the texture may change.

5. Can I use other types of corn?

Yes, you can use frozen, canned, or even creamed corn, but grilling fresh corn provides the best flavor.

6. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Just double-check any packaged products for cross-contamination warnings.

Conclusion: Try Mexican Street Corn Salad Today!

Mexican Street Corn Salad is a vibrant and versatile dish that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or treating yourself, this zesty salad is bursting with flavor, texture, and personality. So fire up the grill, gather your ingredients, and dive into this irresistible recipe.

Print