Have you ever stumbled upon a dish that just screams sunshine on a plate? This easy Mexican corn salad does exactly that. It’s like a fiesta in your mouth with every spoonful—bursting with fresh, zesty flavors and a hint of spice that dances on your tongue. Imagine biting into juicy kernels of corn, mingled with a medley of colorful veggies and a sprinkle of tangy cheese.
Steps
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and brush the corn with olive oil. Grill the corn for about 2 minutes on each side, or until you see char marks, then remove it from the grill.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, garlic, and both the zest and juice of a lime. Slice the grilled corn kernels off the cob and add them to the bowl.
- Add chopped scallions to the bowl and stir to ensure the corn is evenly coated with the mayo mixture. Then, incorporate Cotija cheese, cilantro, smoked paprika, jalapeño, and a pinch of sea salt.
- Mix everything thoroughly, adjusting the seasoning if needed. Serve the salad immediately, or chill it for a while before serving, depending on your preference.
- For a vegan version, simply omit the cheese from the recipe. Optionally, roast the jalapeño alongside the corn for an extra smoky flavor.
Ingredients
- Grilled corn (4 ears)
- Mayonnaise (3 tablespoons)
- Lime juice and zest (from 1 lime)
- Garlic (1 clove, minced)
- Scallions (2, thinly sliced)
- Cotija cheese (1/4 cup, crumbled) or feta cheese as a substitute
- Fresh cilantro (1/4 cup, chopped)
- Smoked paprika (1/2 teaspoon) or chili powder as an alternative
- Jalapeño (1, diced) or pickled jalapeños for variation
- Sea salt (to taste)
FAQ
- What is Mexican Street Corn Salad inspired by?
- Mexican Street Corn Salad is inspired by elotes, which are Mexican grilled corn topped with mayonnaise, hot sauce or chili powder, lime, and Cotija cheese.
- What can I substitute for Cotija cheese in the salad?
- If you can’t find Cotija cheese, you can use feta cheese as an alternative in the salad.
- Can the Mexican Street Corn Salad be made ahead of time?
- Yes, the salad can be prepared in advance. It actually tastes great after chilling for a while, making it a perfect make-ahead dish for picnics and cookouts.
- How can I make the Mexican Street Corn Salad vegan?
- To make this salad vegan, simply omit the cheese from the recipe.
- What are some serving suggestions for the Mexican Street Corn Salad?
- This salad pairs well with classic picnic foods like veggie burgers and BBQ sandwiches. Additionally, it complements Mexican-themed dinners and can be served alongside dishes like rainbow veggie fajitas or butternut squash and black bean enchiladas.
Tips
- For added depth of flavor, consider grilling the corn and jalapeño together until they are slightly charred, enhancing the smoky taste of the salad.
- If you can’t find Cotija cheese, feta is a great alternative that provides a similar tangy and salty flavor.
- Prepare the salad ahead of time and let it chill before serving to allow the flavors to meld, making it an excellent option for picnics and cookouts.
- To make a vegan version of this salad, simply omit the cheese, and it will still be deliciously creamy and flavorful.
Equipment
- Grill Pan – Useful for grilling the corn if you don’t have an outdoor grill.
- Zester – For zesting the lime.
- Large Mixing Bowl – For mixing the ingredients together.
