There’s something incredibly special about a summer afternoon spent with friends, the sun shining, and the smell of something delicious wafting through the air. It’s during these moments that I find myself craving a dish that perfectly captures that vibrant spirit: Mexican Street Corn Salad. This dish is a colorful celebration of flavors and textures, bringing together the sweetness of fresh corn with a creamy dressing that’s simply irresistible. As we gather around, laughter and stories flow, and this salad becomes the centerpiece, drawing everyone in for a taste.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
60 mins

Prep Time:
0 mins

Cook Time:
0 mins

Difficulty:
Easy

Calories:
200 kcal

Protein:
5 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
10 g

Tools Used:
Grill Pan

The Charm of This Mexican Street Corn Salad

It’s a Crowd-Pleaser

Whenever I whip up Mexican Street Corn Salad, I can count on it being a hit. Whether at a family barbecue or a casual gathering with friends, this dish never fails to impress. The combination of flavors—from the fresh corn to the zesty lime—creates an explosion of taste that everyone loves. It’s versatile, too. You can serve it as a side or as a light meal, making it perfect for any occasion.

Fresh and Flavorful Ingredients

The beauty of this salad lies in the fresh, high-quality ingredients. Using ripe, sweet corn and vibrant herbs not only enhances the flavor but adds a pop of color. It’s amazing how just a few components can transform ordinary meals into extraordinary ones. Plus, the addition of creamy mayo and tangy lime juice brings everything together, creating a delightful balance of flavors.

Easy to Make

One of the reasons I adore Mexican Street Corn Salad is its simplicity. With just a handful of steps, you can have a dish that feels gourmet without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s perfect for when I want to enjoy cooking but don’t want to be stuck inside for too long—especially on beautiful days.

Customizable to Your Taste

This salad is incredibly adaptable. If you’re in the mood for something different, you can easily swap ingredients or adjust the spices. Want a little extra heat? Toss in some chopped jalapeños. Prefer a plant-based version? Just use vegan mayo and omit the cheese. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to make it your own every time.

A Perfect Side for Grilled Dishes

Mexican Street Corn Salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats and veggies. I love serving it alongside grilled chicken or veggie skewers during summer cookouts. The salad adds a refreshing contrast to the smoky flavors of the grill, making each bite exciting.

Everything You Need for Mexican Street Corn Salad

When it comes to crafting the perfect Mexican Street Corn Salad, the choice of ingredients is crucial. Each component brings something special to the dish, working harmoniously to create a bright and flavorful experience. Here’s a look at the essential ingredients that make this salad standout.

4 ears fresh corn, husked – The star of the dish, sweet and juicy, bringing a delightful crunch.
Extra-virgin olive oil, for brushing – Adds richness and helps achieve a perfect char on the corn.
1½ tablespoons mayo, or vegan mayo – Creates a creamy texture that binds the ingredients together.
1 garlic clove, minced – A hint of garlic enhances the overall flavor profile.
Zest and juice of 1 lime – Brings a zesty brightness that elevates the dish.
⅓ cup chopped scallions – Adds a mild onion flavor and a pop of color.
¼ cup crumbled Cotija, or feta cheese – Provides a salty bite and creamy texture.
¼ cup finely chopped fresh cilantro – Adds freshness and an herbaceous note.
¼ teaspoon smoked paprika, or chili powder – Introduces a warm, smoky flavor.
1 jalapeño pepper, diced – For those who like a little heat.
¼ teaspoon sea salt – Enhances all the flavors.

Putting Together Mexican Street Corn Salad

Creating Mexican Street Corn Salad is a joyously simple process that yields delicious results. Let’s dive into the steps of making this vibrant dish that will surely impress everyone.

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. You want to create those lovely char marks on your corn, which adds a fantastic flavor.
While the grill warms up, take the husked fresh corn and brush it with extra-virgin olive oil. Make sure it’s well-coated, as this will help it grill beautifully.
Once the grill is ready, carefully place the corn on it. Grill for about 2 minutes per side, keeping an eye on it. You’re looking for that golden-brown color and those enticing char marks.
Once grilled, remove the corn from the grill and set it aside to cool. It’s important to allow it to cool down before cutting the kernels off, as it can be quite hot!
In a large mixing bowl, combine mayo, minced garlic, and the zest and juice of lime. This creamy base is what ties all the ingredients together, giving your salad that luscious texture.
Once the corn is cool enough to handle, slice the kernels off the cob into the bowl with the mayo mixture. Make sure to get all those juicy kernels!
Next, add in the chopped scallions, crumbled Cotija cheese, fresh cilantro, smoked paprika, diced jalapeño, and sea salt. Each of these ingredients adds a unique layer of flavor and texture.
Gently stir everything together until the corn and dressing are well coated. Be careful not to mash the corn; you want to keep that lovely crunch.
Once everything is combined, taste the salad. Adjust the seasoning if needed—this is your chance to make it just right!
Serve immediately for the best flavor, or chill it in the fridge until you’re ready to serve. Either way, this salad is a crowd-pleaser!

Things Worth Knowing

Choose ripe corn: Fresh, sweet corn is the key to this salad. Look for ears that are plump and have bright green husks.
Grilling technique: Don’t overcook the corn; you want it to be tender but still slightly crunchy. Aim for those nice char marks!
Texture matters: For the best texture, make sure to mix gently to keep the corn kernels intact.
Herb freshness: Fresh herbs like cilantro truly elevate the dish. If you can, use freshly chopped herbs instead of dried.

Expert Tips about Mexican Street Corn Salad

Perfecting Mexican Street Corn Salad is all about attention to detail and making it your own. Here are some expert tips to help you elevate your salad:

Storage: This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing: It’s not recommended to freeze this salad as the texture of the corn may change when thawed.
Pairing: Serve this salad alongside grilled chicken or fish to create a delightful meal that everyone will love.
Spice level: Adjust the heat by adding more or less jalapeño, or even try other spicy peppers for a different kick.
Make-ahead tips: You can prepare the dressing and chop the veggies ahead of time. Just combine everything right before serving for the freshest taste.

Serving This Mexican Street Corn Salad

When it comes to serving Mexican Street Corn Salad, the options are endless. Here are some ideas to inspire your presentation:

As a Side Dish: This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, making it a perfect addition to your barbecue spread.
For Lunch: It can also serve as a light and refreshing lunch option, especially on warm days.
Seasonal Occasions: Ideal for summer gatherings and outdoor picnics, this salad adds a burst of color and flavor to any table.
Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best consumed within three days.
Variations: Feel free to add additional ingredients like chopped tomatoes or avocados for a twist on the traditional recipe.

FAQ

Mexican Street Corn Salad stands out because of its vibrant flavors and textures. The combination of sweet corn, creamy dressing, and zesty lime creates a delightful fusion that’s refreshing and satisfying. It’s not just a salad; it’s a celebration of fresh ingredients, making it perfect for summer gatherings or as a side dish at barbecues.

Absolutely! You can prepare Mexican Street Corn Salad a few hours in advance. Just mix all the ingredients together and store them in the fridge. However, for the freshest taste and crunch, I recommend adding the dressing just before serving. This way, the textures stay intact, and the flavors shine through. If you prepare it ahead of time, it can still be delicious, but the corn may become a bit softer.

This salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats, making it an excellent side for barbecued chicken, steak, or fish. It also complements vegetarian dishes perfectly! You can serve it alongside grilled veggies or even as a topping for tacos. Its versatility allows it to be enjoyed with a variety of main courses, making it a staple for any meal.

Yes, Mexican Street Corn Salad can be a healthy option. It’s packed with fresh vegetables, which are full of vitamins and fiber. Using light mayo or vegan mayo can lower the calorie count, too. Additionally, you can adjust the amounts of cheese or spices to suit your dietary needs. Overall, it’s a nutritious and delicious choice for a side dish or light meal.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Mexican Street Corn Salad is a delightful dish that brings together fresh ingredients and exciting flavors. Whether enjoyed at a summer barbecue or as a light lunch, this salad is sure to impress. I encourage you to try making it; you won’t be disappointed!