Name: Mexican Street Corn Salad: A Creamy Fiesta for Your Tastebuds
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 7 min
Total time: 47 min
Ingredients: 2 cups Corn (Fresh or frozen); 2 tablespoons Butter or Olive Oil (For sautéing); 1/2 cup Mayonnaise (Full-fat mayonnaise for richer flavor); 1/4 cup Sour Cream or Mexican Crema (Greek yogurt is a healthy alternative); 1 tablespoon Lime Juice (Freshly squeezed); 1 teaspoon Chili Powder (Adjust based on heat preference); 1/4 cup Cotija Cheese (Crumbled; feta or Parmesan are substitutes); 1/4 cup Cilantro (Chopped; optional); 1 medium Jalapeño (Minced; optional for spice)

As I strolled through a vibrant local market, the warm aroma of grilled corn wafted through the air, instantly transporting me to the lively streets of Mexico. That’s the magic of making my Easy Mexican Street Corn Salad! Inspired by traditional esquites, this creamy and zesty dish is not only a crowd-pleaser but incredibly simple to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights or festive gatherings. With the freshness of sweet corn, a tangy lime kick, and the richness of cheese, every bite encapsulates the spirit of summer. Plus, it’s vegetarian-friendly and can be easily adapted for various tastes with simple variations. Curious to learn how to bring this delightful dish to your table? Let’s dive in!

Why Is This Salad a Must-Try?

Simplicity at its finest: This Easy Mexican Street Corn Salad requires minimal prep and uses straightforward ingredients, making it perfect for home cooks of any skill level.

Flavor explosion: With sweet corn, creamy dressing, zesty lime, and salty cheese, the taste is nothing short of spectacular!

Versatile masterpiece: Whether enjoyed as a side dish for tacos, a topping for nachos, or as a light lunch on its own, this salad can be adapted to fit any occasion.

Make-ahead convenience: Prepare it in advance, and let the flavors meld in the fridge for a refreshing side that gets even better with time.

Crowd-pleaser: It’s a guaranteed hit at gatherings, just like my Honey Glazed Corn recipe!

Mexican Street Corn Salad Ingredients

• Discover the simple elements that make this salad a creamy delight!

For the Salad

Corn – Fresh or frozen; it provides that sweet, delicious texture essential for a great Mexican Street Corn Salad.
Mayonnaise – Forms the creamy base of the dressing; using full-fat mayonnaise will give you a richer flavor.
Sour Cream or Mexican Crema – Adds a nice tanginess; Greek yogurt serves as a healthy alternative.
Lime Juice – Brightens the dish with acidity; always opt for fresh lime for the best taste.
Chili Powder – Imparts that classic elote flavor; adjust the amount based on your heat preference.
Cotija Cheese – Offers a salty, tangy finish; crumbled feta or grated Parmesan can serve as substitutes.
Butter or Olive Oil – For sautéing the corn; choose olive oil for a lighter, healthier option.
Cilantro – Adds a fresh, herbal note; feel free to omit if it’s not your favorite.
Jalapeño – Optional for adding that spicy kick; adjust the amount according to your spice tolerance.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Mexican Street Corn Salad

Step 1: Sauté the Corn
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of butter or olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the corn kernels and cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently. Look for the corn to become tender with some beautiful charred spots, adding a wonderful depth of flavor to your Mexican Street Corn Salad.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing
While the corn is cooking, grab a large mixing bowl. Combine mayonnaise, sour cream, 1/4 cup of crumbled cotija cheese, freshly squeezed lime juice, and chili powder. Whisk these ingredients together until smooth and creamy, creating the dressing that will elevate your Mexican Street Corn Salad to new heights of flavor.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Once the corn has cooled slightly, carefully add it to the bowl with the dressing. Then, stir in chopped cilantro and minced jalapeño for an extra kick. Gently combine all the ingredients until the corn is well coated in the creamy dressing, ensuring each bite of the Mexican Street Corn Salad bursts with flavor.

Step 4: Taste and Adjust Seasoning
Before serving, taste your Mexican Street Corn Salad and adjust the seasoning if needed. You may want to add a pinch of salt and freshly cracked pepper to enhance the overall flavor profile. This step is critical to ensure every element harmonizes beautifully in your delicious salad.

Step 5: Chill and Serve
For the best flavor experience, let the Mexican Street Corn Salad sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. When ready to enjoy, serve chilled as a refreshing side dish or topping for tacos and nachos!

What to Serve with Easy Mexican Street Corn Salad

Elevate your meal experience with delightful accompaniments that complement every creamy bite of this Mexican street corn salad.

Grilled Chicken Tacos: Juicy tacos pair beautifully with the salad’s creamy texture, creating a delicious fusion of flavors that will leave everyone satisfied.
Spicy Black Bean Soup: The hearty warmth of black bean soup pairs perfectly with the refreshing crunch of the salad, creating a balanced and fulfilling meal.
Cilantro Lime Rice: Light and zesty, this rice dish enhances the flavors of the salad and rounds out the meal with a delightful freshness.
Chips and Guacamole: The creaminess of guacamole alongside crunchy tortilla chips brings a satisfying contrast to the rich textures in the salad.
Margaritas: A cool and tangy margarita complements the zesty lime notes in the salad, turning any gathering into a festive occasion.
Flan or Tres Leches Cake: End your meal with a touch of sweetness. These classic desserts add a rich finish that beautifully balances the salad’s vibrant flavors.

Storage Tips for Mexican Street Corn Salad

Fridge: Store your Mexican Street Corn Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The flavors improve as it sits, making it a fantastic make-ahead option.
Freezer: While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the salad for up to 1 month. However, note that the texture may change once thawed.
Reheating: If you prefer serving it warm, gently reheat in a skillet over low heat, stirring until warmed through. Be careful not to overheat, as the salad is best served chilled.
Presentation Tips: For optimal freshness, avoid adding any toppings like cilantro or extra cheese until just before serving. This keeps your Mexican Street Corn Salad looking vibrant and appealing!

Expert Tips for Mexican Street Corn Salad

Grill the Corn: For deeper flavor, grill the corn before cutting it off the cob. It adds a smoky element that elevates your Mexican Street Corn Salad.
Season with Care: Since cotija cheese is naturally salty, be careful when adding extra salt to the dressing. Taste first and adjust slowly.
Chill Time Matters: Allow the salad to sit for about 30 minutes in the refrigerator before serving. This resting period helps the flavors meld and enhances overall taste.
Customize Your Heat: Adjust the amount of jalapeño based on your spice preference. Start with a small amount and increase it if you like more heat in your Mexican Street Corn Salad.
Mix Up the Cheese: Don’t hesitate to experiment with different cheeses! Feta or Parmesan can add a unique twist to your salad if you can’t find cotija.
Garnish for Flair: Before serving, sprinkle extra cotija cheese and chopped cilantro on top for an appealing presentation and an extra burst of flavor.

Make Ahead Options

These Easy Mexican Street Corn Salad options are perfect for busy weeknights and make meal prep a breeze! You can prepare the corn and dressing separately up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring maximum freshness and flavor. Simply sauté the corn and let it cool before placing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For the dressing, mix together mayonnaise, sour cream, cotija cheese, lime juice, and chili powder, and refrigerate it as well. When you’re ready to serve, combine the cooled corn with the dressing, chopped cilantro, and jalapeño, giving it a gentle stir to maintain that delightful creamy texture. This way, you’ll have a refreshing, crowd-pleasing Mexican Street Corn Salad ready with minimal effort!

Mexican Street Corn Salad Variations

Feel free to get creative with this Mexican Street Corn Salad and make it uniquely yours!

Dairy-Free: Substitute with plant-based mayonnaise and vegan cheese for a delightful dairy-free option. Enjoy the same creamy texture without the dairy.
Spicy Kick: Increase the heat by adding diced serrano peppers or a dash of hot sauce. Spice lovers will appreciate the extra zing!
Herby Delight: Swap out cilantro for fresh basil or parsley for a different herbal note that complements the flavors beautifully. Each herb offers its unique twist.
Tex-Mex Fusion: Incorporate black beans and corn for added protein and a heartier texture. This twist turns it into a satisfying main dish!
Zesty Citrus: For a citrusy twist, add orange or grapefruit segments. The bursts of juicy sweetness will elevate the salad to a whole new level of deliciousness.
Nutty Crunch: Toss in some toasted pumpkin seeds or pecans for a delightful crunch that enhances the texture and adds a nutty flavor.
Grilled Veggies: Enhance the smoky flavor profile by adding grilled bell peppers or zucchini. This variation celebrates the essence of outdoor grilling.
Creamy Avocado: Fold in diced avocado for an extra layer of creaminess that complements the tangy dressing perfectly. It’s a match made in culinary heaven!

Exploring variations like these can lead to incredible flavor discoveries, much like the ones found in my Street Corn Cucumber salad or the sweet notes of Pumpkin Cornbread with Cinnamon recipe! Enjoy experimenting!

Mexican Street Corn Salad Recipe FAQs

What type of corn should I use for my Mexican Street Corn Salad?
Absolutely! You can use either fresh or frozen corn for your Mexican Street Corn Salad. If you’re going the fresh route, make sure to cut the kernels off about 6 to 8 ears of corn. For frozen corn, cook it in a skillet until it’s browned, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes. This helps retain that sweet flavor and delightful texture!

How should I store leftovers of the Mexican Street Corn Salad?
To keep your Mexican Street Corn Salad fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The flavors will actually improve as it sits, mingling together beautifully! Just be sure to give it a good stir when you’re ready to serve again.

Can I freeze Mexican Street Corn Salad?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze your Mexican Street Corn Salad for up to 1 month. To freeze, place it in a freezer-safe container and make sure it’s sealed tightly. However, keep in mind that the texture may change once it’s thawed. When ready to eat, let it thaw in the fridge overnight or gently reheat in a skillet over low heat, being careful not to overheat.

What if I dislike cilantro? Can I omit it?
Very! If cilantro isn’t your cup of tea, you can definitely omit it. The salad will still taste deliciously creamy and flavorful without it. You could also substitute parsley for a different herb or simply leave it out for an equally delightful taste!

How can I adjust the spice level of the Mexican Street Corn Salad?
The more the merrier! To adjust the spice level, you can either add more or less jalapeño based on your preference. If you like it mild, start with just a small amount or leave it out. On the other hand, for an extra kick, feel free to add more jalapeño or even throw in a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dressing for a spicier twist!

What common issues might I face when making this salad?
One common issue is the dressing being too thick. If you find that happening, you can easily thin it out by adding a little more lime juice or a splash of water. Also, remember to taste and season with salt and pepper cautiously, especially since cotija cheese adds saltiness too. It’s always better to start with less and adjust to your liking!