Name: Mexican Street Corn Salad Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 4 ears fresh corn (shucked, kernels removed (about 3 cups fresh corn kernels)); Kosher salt (to taste); 2 ounces feta or Cotija cheese (finely crumbled); 1/2 cup finely sliced scallions (green parts only); 1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves (finely chopped); 1 jalapeño pepper (seeded and stemmed, finely chopped); 1 to 2 cloves garlic (pressed or minced on a Microplane grater (about 1 to 2 teaspoons)); 2 tablespoons mayonnaise; 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice (from 1 lime); Chile powder or hot chile flakes (to taste)

Introduction to Mexican Street Corn Salad Recipe

What is Mexican Street Corn Salad and Why You’ll Love It?

Have you ever tasted the vibrant flavors of Mexican street corn? Well, get ready to fall in love with this easy-to-make dish. The Mexican street corn salad recipe, or Esquites, takes all the delicious elements of elotes—grilled corn on the cob slathered in creamy toppings—and transforms them into a versatile salad that can be served as a side or a snack.

What makes this dish shine is the combination of charred corn, creamy feta or Cotija cheese, and the tang of fresh lime juice—all topped off with a spicy kick from jalapeños and a sprinkle of chili powder. Not only is this salad bursting with flavor, but it also brings a delightful crunch and freshness, making it a go-to option for your next barbecue or potluck.

Packed with nutrients and incredibly quick to prepare in about 20 minutes, this recipe offers a fantastic way to savor corn’s natural sweetness. With a mix of textures and tastes that are simply irresistible, it’s no wonder this delicious salad is becoming a favorite among food lovers everywhere. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this crowd-pleaser!(source: Serious Eats)

Ingredients for Mexican Street Corn Salad

Essential ingredients you’ll need

To whip up a delightful Mexican Street Corn Salad, here are the essential ingredients you won’t want to skip:

Vegetable oil: This is crucial for that perfect char on the corn.
Fresh corn: Use about 4 ears for an authentic flavor.
Cheese: Feta or Cotija cheese adds the creamy, salty element.
Scallions: Finely sliced green parts bring crunch and flavor.
Cilantro: Freshly chopped, it infuses that signature Mexican taste.
Jalapeño: For a kick of heat, adjust based on your spice preference.
Garlic: Minced or pressed garlic enhances the depth of flavors.
Mayonnaise: This is the secret to that creamy texture.
Lime juice: Freshly squeezed really brightens up the salad.
Chile powder: Adjust to taste for that extra zing.

Optional ingredients for customization

Part of the fun of this Mexican Street Corn Salad recipe is how customizable it is! Consider these optional ingredients to personalize your dish:

Avocado: Adds creaminess and a healthy fat boost.
Red onion: For an extra crunch and a bit of color.
Black beans: Incorporate for added protein and texture.
Tomatoes: Diced cherry or Roma tomatoes can add sweetness.
Corn salsa: A spoonful can elevate the flavor profile.

Feel free to mix and match based on your taste preferences! Whether you stick with the essentials or add a twist, your salad is bound to be a hit. Want to learn how to prepare the ingredients? Check out this guide on corn preparation.

Preparing Mexican Street Corn Salad

Creating a delicious Mexican street corn salad is an exciting way to bring vibrant flavors and textures to your table. Follow these straightforward steps to whip up this crowd-pleaser effortlessly.

Gather Your Ingredients

Before diving in, let's assemble everything you need for this mouthwatering salad. You'll want to have the following ingredients handy:

2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
4 ears of fresh corn, shucked with kernels removed (roughly 3 cups)
Kosher salt for seasoning
2 ounces of feta or Cotija cheese, finely crumbled
½ cup of finely sliced scallions (green parts only)
½ cup of fresh cilantro leaves, finely chopped
1 jalapeño, seeded, stemmed, and finely chopped
1 to 2 medium cloves of garlic, pressed or minced (about 1 to 2 teaspoons)
2 tablespoons of mayonnaise
1 tablespoon of fresh lime juice (from about 1 lime)
Chile powder or hot chile flakes, to taste

Having everything prepped in advance makes the process smoother and even more enjoyable. Trust me, it’s such a joy to see all those vibrant colors on your countertop!

Prepare the Corn

Now that your ingredients are ready, it’s time to deal with the corn. Start by shucking the ears until all those golden kernels are revealed. To make things even simpler, using a sharp knife, carefully slice down the sides, releasing those kernels into your mixing bowl.

If you’re unsure about how to do this, Serious Eats offers a great guide on corn preparation.

Char the Corn for That Authentic Flavor

Next comes one of the most exciting parts: charring the corn! Heat the vegetable oil in a large nonstick skillet or wok over high heat until it’s shimmering. Add the corn, season it with a sprinkle of salt, and let it sit untouched for about 2 minutes until it gets beautifully charred on one side. Toss it occasionally and keep cooking for about 10 minutes until the corn is evenly charred. The char is key to achieving that distinctive flavor reminiscent of street vendors in Mexico.

Mix in Fresh Ingredients and Dressing

Once your corn is ready, transfer it to a large bowl and let it cool slightly. Add in the crumbled cheese, scallions, cilantro, jalapeño, and garlic, along with the mayonnaise and lime juice. Give it all a gentle toss to combine the ingredients. The fresh herbs and creamy dressing elevate this salad, making it irresistibly delicious!

Toss and Taste for Seasoning

Finally, it’s time to ensure that your Mexican street corn salad recipe is seasoned to perfection. Toss everything together again and take a moment to taste. Adjust it with additional salt or chile powder if needed. The balance of flavors should make your taste buds sing!

Each step brings you closer to a dish that is not only beautiful but bursting with flavor—a guaranteed hit at your next gathering! Enjoy!

Variations on Mexican Street Corn Salad

Spicy Avocado Twist

For a creamy kick, consider adding ripe avocado to your Mexican street corn salad recipe. Simply mash or chop a fresh avocado and fold it in towards the end. It brings a lush texture and balances the spiciness from jalapeños. The creamy avocado pairs beautifully with the charred corn, creating a mouthwatering combination that's perfect for summer picnics!

Creamy Cilantro-Lime Version

Elevate your Mexican street corn salad with a refreshing cilantro-lime base. Swap out the mayonnaise for a blend of Greek yogurt and extra lime juice, mixing in finely chopped cilantro. This adds a zesty flavor profile while keeping your dish light and healthy. Perfect for those warmer days when you crave something vibrant and invigorating!

For more innovative corn salad ideas, check out resources like Serious Eats and explore different flavor combinations that suit your taste.

Cooking notes for Mexican Street Corn Salad

Tips for charring corn perfectly

To achieve that irresistible smoky flavor in your Mexican Street Corn Salad, start with fresh corn. Heat your skillet over high heat until it's really hot before adding the corn. Lay the kernels in a single layer and resist the urge to stir too often. Let them char for about two minutes before tossing; this will give each kernel a beautiful, golden-brown color. For an extra layer of flavor, consider using a grill if you have one handy!

Storage tips for leftovers

This delicious salad is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, don’t worry! Store your Mexican Street Corn Salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just give it a good stir before serving to redistribute the flavors. If you notice the salad getting a bit watery, try adding a touch more mayonnaise or lime juice to refresh it. Perfect for meal prep or as a quick side dish for lunch!

Serving suggestions for Mexican Street Corn Salad

Best pairings for your salad

This Mexican Street Corn Salad recipe is a delightful addition to any meal! It pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, turkey bacon, or beef tacos for a hearty feast. For a lighter option, serve it alongside fish tacos or baked white fish like cod or tilapia. If you’re hosting a barbecue, it’s a fantastic side for burgers and kebabs. You might even consider serving it with a refreshing mango salsa or a zesty lime crema for that extra kick!

Creative ways to serve it

Elevate your serving game by presenting this salad in mini taco cups or as a filling for lettuce wraps. You can also put it in a mason jar for a fun, portable option at picnics. Consider sprinkling extra feta or Cotija cheese on top as a garnish while drizzling with lime juice. Lastly, serve it with tortilla chips for an exciting twist on a classic dip. Your guests will love these creative serving ideas, making the dish not only delicious but visually appealing too!

Time details for Mexican Street Corn Salad

Preparation time
To whip up this delicious Mexican street corn salad, you’ll need just about 5 minutes for preparation. This is your time to gather ingredients, slice, and dice away!

Cooking time
Cooking the corn to that perfect char will take around 15 minutes. This ensures each kernel is beautifully roasted for maximum flavor.

Total time
In less than 20 minutes, you can have this refreshing side dish ready to serve, making it ideal for busy weeknights or summer gatherings. Enjoy your time in the kitchen!

For a deeper dive into the origins and variations of this dish, check out Serious Eats' article on Mexican corn dishes. It’s a great resource if you're looking to learn more about the flavors of Mexican cuisine!

Nutritional Information for Mexican Street Corn Salad

Calories

This Mexican street corn salad recipe is both delicious and satisfying, clocking in at approximately 200 calories per serving. It's a great option for a light meal or side dish without packing on the calories.

Protein

You'll find about 6 grams of protein per serving, thanks to the combination of fresh corn and cheese. This makes it a delightful choice for protein boosts while keeping it vegetarian-friendly!

Sodium

With an estimated sodium content of around 300 mg, this salad can be enjoyed by those monitoring their salt intake. You can easily adjust the seasoning to suit your taste preferences. Enjoy the vibrant flavors!

FAQs about Mexican Street Corn Salad

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! This Mexican street corn salad recipe actually tastes even better after the flavors have had time to meld. You can prepare the salad a few hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just remember to add the cheese right before serving to maintain its texture.

What if I can’t find fresh corn?

No worries! If fresh corn isn’t available, you can use frozen corn as a tasty alternative. Just thaw it and pat it dry before roasting in the skillet. Canned corn could work in a pinch too—just be sure to rinse and drain it well. For more detailed tips on corn selection, check out this helpful guide from Serious Eats.

How can I make this vegan?

Making this salad vegan is simple! Just swap out the mayonnaise for a vegan alternative. You can also use plant-based cheese or skip the cheese altogether for a lighter version. By using these alternatives, you can still enjoy a delicious and creamy salad that everyone can enjoy.

Conclusion on Mexican Street Corn Salad

Why you should try making this delicious salad today!

If you’re looking for a fresh, vibrant way to enjoy summer flavors, this Mexican street corn salad recipe is a must-try. It's quick, easy to prepare, and packed with delicious ingredients that will impress friends and family alike. Plus, it’s a fantastic side dish for any occasion!

Encouragement to experiment with flavors

Don’t hesitate to make this salad your own! Experiment with different cheeses like Queso Fresco or add a pop of color with diced bell peppers. A splash of smoked paprika or a hint of lime zest can elevate the dish even more. The possibilities are endless!