Mexican Street Corn Salad

Name: Mexican Street Corn Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Ingredients: 4 cups corn (fresh or frozen); 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 1/2 cup sour cream; 1 cup crumbled cotija cheese; 1/4 cup chopped cilantro; 1/2 red onion (diced); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1 lime (juiced); 1 teaspoon chili powder; Salt and pepper to taste

This Mexican street corn salad is a delightful combination of sweet corn, zesty lime, creamy cheese, and spices, capturing the essence of traditional elote in a refreshing salad form. Perfect for summer barbecues or as a side dish, this recipe is simple yet packed with flavor, making it a must-try for any corn lover.

Ingredients

– 4 cups corn (fresh or frozen)
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1 cup crumbled cotija cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1/2 red onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 lime (juiced)
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, with no cooking time required if using fresh corn.

Nutritional Value

Per serving (1/4 of the salad): approximately 250 calories, 15g fat, 20g carbohydrates, 6g protein, and 3g fiber. This is based on using mayonnaise and cotija cheese.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

1. If using fresh corn, grill or boil the corn until tender; if using frozen, thaw it.
2. Allow the corn to cool slightly before handling.
3. In a large bowl, combine the corn with mayonnaise and sour cream.
4. Add the crumbled cotija cheese and mix well.
5. Stir in the chopped cilantro and diced red onion.
6. Add minced garlic and lime juice for flavor.
7. Sprinkle chili powder, salt, and pepper to taste.
8. Mix all ingredients until evenly coated.
9. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
10. Chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Alternative Ingredients

You can substitute cotija cheese with feta for a similar flavor. Greek yogurt can replace sour cream for a lighter option. Additionally, lime juice can be swapped with lemon juice for a different citrus note.

Serving and Pairings

This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, fish tacos, or as a filling side for any barbecue. Serve it alongside tortilla chips for a crunchy contrast.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This salad is best served cold and does not freeze well due to the creamy ingredients.

Cooking Mistakes

Using overcooked corn can make the salad mushy.
Not chilling the salad long enough can diminish flavor.
Skipping fresh lime can lead to a flat taste.
Not seasoning adequately can result in blandness.
Using too much mayonnaise can overpower the other flavors.

Helpful Tips

Use fresh corn for the best flavor.
Customize the spice level by adjusting chili powder.
For a smoky taste, grill the corn before adding it to the salad.
Add diced avocado for extra creaminess.

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this salad a few hours in advance. Just keep it refrigerated until serving to maintain its freshness.

What can I use instead of cotija cheese?

Feta cheese is a great alternative that offers a similar tangy flavor, making it an excellent substitute.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients in this Mexican street corn salad are gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

How long does this salad last in the fridge?

This salad will stay fresh in the refrigerator for about 3 days. After that, the ingredients may start to lose their texture and flavor.

Can I add protein to this salad?

Absolutely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or black beans can be added to enhance the nutritional value and make it a more filling dish.

Conclusion

This Mexican street corn salad is a vibrant, flavorful dish that captures the spirit of summer. Easy to prepare and perfect for gatherings, it’s a delightful way to enjoy fresh corn. Make it your go-to side dish and impress your friends and family with its bold flavors!