Mexican Street Corn Salad

This dish is all about grilled corn kernels tossed in a creamy dressing with tangy cotija cheese, zesty lime juice, and a hint of chili powder.

It’s a flavor-packed side dish that’s easy to make and perfect for summer gatherings or weeknight dinners.

Let’s get cooking!

What’s to Love about This Mexican Street Corn Salad?

This Mexican Street Corn Salad recipe offers a burst of vibrant flavors and textures that are simply irresistible.

Here’s why you should give it a try:

1. Bold and Zesty Flavors: Charred corn kernels combined with creamy mayonnaise, tangy sour cream or Greek yogurt, and zesty lime juice create a medley of flavors that dance on your taste buds. The addition of cotija cheese, cilantro, and chili powder adds depth and complexity to every bite.
2. Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep work, this salad comes together effortlessly. Whether you’re grilling outdoors or using a stovetop grill pan, the process is straightforward and hassle-free.
3. Versatile: This salad can be enjoyed as a side dish, appetizer, or even a light main course. It pairs perfectly with grilled meats, tacos, or as a topping for nachos. Plus, it’s a great way to showcase the fresh flavors of summer corn.
4. Customizable: Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your taste preferences. Adjust the amount of chili powder for more or less heat, swap cotija cheese for feta cheese, or add additional toppings like diced red onion or jalapeños for an extra kick.
5. Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or attending a potluck, this Mexican Street Corn Salad is sure to be a hit with friends and family.

Ingredient Notes, Tips, and Alternatives

1. Corn:
   • Freshness: Opt for fresh corn on the cob for the best flavor and texture. Look for ears with plump kernels and bright green husks. If fresh corn isn’t available, you can use frozen or canned corn kernels as a substitute.
   • Grilling: Grilling the corn adds a delicious smoky flavor and charred texture to the salad. If you don’t have a grill, you can also roast the corn in the oven or cook it in a skillet on the stovetop.
2. Mayonnaise:
   • Variations: Mayonnaise adds creaminess to the dressing, but you can use alternative ingredients for a lighter option. Substitute with Greek yogurt or sour cream for a tangy twist, or use a combination of both for a balance of flavors.
3. Cotija Cheese:
   • Substitutions: Cotija cheese is traditional in Mexican street corn salad, but if you can’t find it, feta cheese makes a great alternative. Both cheeses offer a salty and tangy flavor that complements the sweetness of the corn.
   • Texture: Crumble the cotija or feta cheese into small pieces for easy mixing and even distribution throughout the salad.
4. Cilantro:
   • Freshness: Fresh cilantro adds a bright and herbaceous flavor to the salad. If you’re not a fan of cilantro, you can substitute with fresh parsley or skip the herb altogether.
   • Chopping: Finely chop the cilantro leaves and tender stems for optimal flavor dispersion. Avoid using the tough stems at the bottom of the bunch.
5. Chili Powder:
   • Adjusting Heat: The amount of chili powder can be adjusted according to your preference for spiciness. Start with 1 teaspoon and add more if you like it hotter. You can also use chipotle powder for a smoky kick or cayenne pepper for extra heat.
6. Lime Juice:
   • Freshness: Freshly squeezed lime juice provides a bright and tangy flavor to the dressing. Make sure to use ripe limes for the best taste. If you don’t have fresh limes on hand, you can use bottled lime juice as a substitute.

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