If you love elote (Mexican street corn) but want an easier, mess-free way to enjoy it, this Mexican Street Corn Salad is the answer! Packed with charred corn, creamy dressing, zesty lime, and a touch of spice, it’s the perfect side dish for tacos, grilled meats, or even as a dip with tortilla chips.
This fresh, vibrant, and flavor-packed salad is ready in 15 minutes, making it an easy crowd-pleaser for BBQs, potlucks, or taco nights!
Ingredients (Serves 4-6)
- Corn (fresh, frozen, or canned) – 4 cups (about 5-6 ears of fresh corn)
- Olive oil or butter – 1 tbsp
- Mayonnaise – 3 tbsp
- Sour cream or Mexican crema – 3 tbsp
- Cotija cheese (crumbled) – 50g (½ cup) (or feta cheese as a substitute)
- Lime juice (freshly squeezed) – 2 tbsp
- Garlic, minced – 1 clove
- Cilantro, chopped – 2 tbsp
- Jalapeño, finely diced (optional for spice) – 1 small
- Chili powder – ½ tsp
- Smoked paprika – ½ tsp
- Salt & black pepper – to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Char the Corn
- If using fresh corn, cut the kernels off the cob.
- Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Add olive oil or butter.
- Add the corn kernels and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they get golden brown and slightly charred.
- Remove from heat and let cool for a few minutes.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
- In a large bowl, mix mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, minced garlic, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Stir until smooth and creamy.
Step 3: Combine & Serve
- Add the charred corn to the bowl and toss to coat evenly.
- Stir in crumbled Cotija cheese, chopped cilantro, and diced jalapeño (if using).
- Taste and adjust seasoning with more lime juice, salt, or spice as needed.
Step 4: Garnish & Enjoy!
- Top with extra Cotija cheese, a sprinkle of chili powder, and fresh cilantro for a beautiful finish.
- Serve warm or chilled with tacos, grilled meats, or tortilla chips!
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 230 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Protein: 6g
- Fat: 14g
- Fiber: 3g
(Nutritional values may vary based on ingredients used.)
Tips & Variations
✔ Make It Spicier – Add extra jalapeño, hot sauce, or cayenne pepper for more heat.
✔ Use Frozen or Canned Corn – No fresh corn? Frozen or canned corn works great—just drain well and char in a skillet.
✔ Make It Vegan – Swap mayo & sour cream for vegan alternatives and use nutritional yeast or vegan feta instead of Cotija.
✔ Grill Whole Corn for Extra Flavor – If you have time, grill whole corn cobs, then cut off the kernels for the best smoky taste!
Serving & Storage
???? Best Served Fresh – Enjoy immediately for the best texture and flavor.
???? Storage – Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
???? Reheating – Eat cold or at room temperature, or give it a quick warm-up in the microwave or skillet.
Why You’ll Love This Mexican Street Corn Salad
✅ Quick & Easy – Ready in 15 minutes with simple ingredients.
✅ Big, Bold Flavors – A mix of creamy, zesty, smoky, and spicy in every bite.
✅ Versatile – Works as a side dish, taco topping, dip, or even a main dish!
✅ Perfect for Any Occasion – Great for BBQs, potlucks, taco nights, or summer cookouts.
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