Mexican Street Corn Salad

Mexican Street Corn Salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish that captures the essence of summer in every bite. This easy-to-make salad combines the sweet crunch of corn with zesty lime, creamy cotija cheese, and fresh cilantro. Perfect for picnics, barbecues, or any gathering, this mayo-free elote salad is sure to impress your guests with its bold flavors and delightful textures.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This Mexican street corn salad comes together in just a few simple steps, making it a breeze for busy cooks.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of charred corn, lime juice, and spices delivers a burst of flavor that elevates any meal.
• Versatile Side Dish: Pair this salad with grilled meats or serve it as a refreshing standalone dish at your next event.
• Mayo-Free Delight: Enjoy all the creaminess without mayonnaise, making it a healthier option for everyone.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for potlucks or parties, this salad is sure to be a hit with family and friends alike.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Mexican street corn salad efficiently, having the right tools can make all the difference. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Cast iron skillet
• Large mixing bowl
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Cast iron skillet: Provides even heat distribution for perfectly charred corn.
• Large mixing bowl: Offers ample space to mix ingredients without spilling.
• Sharp knife: Ensures precise cutting of scallions and jalapenos for even flavor distribution.

Ingredients

For this delicious Mexican street corn salad, gather the following ingredients:

Fresh Produce

• 20 ounces frozen corn, thawed and patted dry
• ½ cup scallions, thinly sliced, both white and green parts
• ¼ cup cilantro, roughly chopped, plus additional for topping
• 1 lime, juiced
• 1 jalapeno, seeded and finely chopped
• 1 garlic clove, minced

Dairy

• ¼ cup cotija cheese, crumbled

Pantry Staples

• 2 tablespoons avocado oil
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon chili powder

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How to Make Mexican Street Corn Salad

Step 1: Char the Corn

Heat the avocado oil in a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil is shimmering:
1. Add the thawed corn.
2. Cook while tossing often until the corn is charred and starting to pop (about 5-6 minutes).

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

Once the corn is charred:
1. Pour it into a large mixing bowl.
2. Add scallions, cilantro, cotija cheese, lime juice, jalapeno, garlic, salt, and chili powder.
3. Toss everything thoroughly to ensure an even mix.

Step 3: Serve

Serve your Mexican street corn salad topped with additional cilantro and crumbled cotija cheese for an extra touch of flavor. Enjoy!

How to Serve Mexican Street Corn Salad

Mexican Street Corn Salad is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or looking for a delicious side for dinner, this salad fits the bill perfectly. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your experience.

As a Standalone Salad

• This salad makes for a refreshing and light meal on its own, especially during hot summer days.

Topped with Grilled Protein

• Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or steak on top for a heartier option. The flavors of the charred meat complement the corn salad beautifully.

In Tacos

• Use the salad as a filling for soft tortillas. It adds a burst of flavor and texture to any taco.

As a Dip

• Serve it alongside tortilla chips for a tasty dip. The crunchy chips balance out the creamy cotija cheese perfectly.

With Extra Lime

• Squeeze additional lime juice over the top before serving. This enhances the zesty flavors and adds brightness to the dish.

How to Perfect Mexican Street Corn Salad

To make your Mexican Street Corn Salad truly shine, consider these helpful tips:

• Choose fresh ingredients: Opt for high-quality frozen corn and fresh herbs to elevate the flavor profile.
• Char the corn properly: Ensure you cook the corn until it’s nicely charred; this adds depth and smokiness.
• Adjust spice levels: If you prefer more heat, add extra jalapeno or chili powder according to your taste.
• Let it chill: Allowing the salad to sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving helps the flavors meld together beautifully.
• Customize toppings: Feel free to mix in diced avocados or cherry tomatoes for added texture and flavor.
• Serve cold: This salad is best served chilled, making it an ideal choice for warm weather gatherings.

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Best Side Dishes for Mexican Street Corn Salad

Pairing your Mexican Street Corn Salad with complementary side dishes can enhance your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Grilled Veggies
   A colorful assortment of seasonal vegetables grilled to perfection adds texture and complements the salad’s flavors.
2. Black Bean Salsa
   A zesty black bean salsa brings protein and additional flavor, making it a hearty addition to any meal.
3. Avocado Toast
   Creamy avocado toast topped with lime juice is an excellent match, providing richness that pairs well with the salad.
4. Quinoa Salad
   A light quinoa salad with citrus dressing offers another healthy option that balances out richer dishes.
5. Chips and Guacamole
   Classic tortilla chips served with creamy guacamole make for a delightful snack alongside your corn salad.
6. Mexican Rice
   Fluffy Mexican rice seasoned with spices can add heartiness while not overpowering the main flavors of your meal.
7. Pico de Gallo
   Fresh pico de gallo provides a refreshing contrast with its bright flavors and crunch, perfect alongside rich dishes.
8. Cilantro Lime Rice
   Fluffy rice infused with cilantro and lime echoes the flavors in your salad while being an easy side option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Mexican Street Corn Salad can be easy, but it’s important to avoid common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Not Thawing the Corn Properly: Frozen corn should be fully thawed and patted dry before cooking. This prevents excess moisture from making your salad soggy.
• Skipping the Charred Flavor: Failing to char the corn reduces the depth of flavor in your salad. Cook until you see a good amount of browning for that authentic taste.
• Using Low-Quality Cheese: Opt for fresh cotija cheese. Using a lower-quality or pre-crumbled cheese can detract from the rich, creamy texture.
• Overlooking Lime Juice: Adding lime juice is essential for brightness. Don’t skip this step, as it enhances the overall flavor profile of your salad.
• Forgetting to Season: Salt and chili powder are key ingredients that elevate your dish. Be sure to season well to bring out all the flavors.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep away from strong-smelling foods to prevent odor transfer.

Freezing Mexican Street Corn Salad

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
• Consider portioning into smaller containers for easy thawing.

Reheating Mexican Street Corn Salad

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm in a baking dish covered with foil for about 15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water if necessary to retain moisture.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Mexican Street Corn Salad?

Mexican Street Corn Salad is a vibrant dish made with charred corn, cotija cheese, lime juice, and fresh herbs. It’s inspired by the popular street food known as elote.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just remember that it may get a bit watery over time.

What can I substitute for cotija cheese?

If you can’t find cotija cheese, feta or queso fresco can work as alternatives. They provide similar flavors and textures.

Is this Mexican Street Corn Salad spicy?

The level of spiciness depends on how much jalapeño you add. Feel free to adjust according to your heat preference or omit it entirely.

How can I customize the recipe?

You can add ingredients like diced avocado, black beans, or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition. Experiment with different herbs like parsley or basil if you prefer!

Final Thoughts

This Mexican Street Corn Salad is not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ or looking for an easy side dish, this salad fits perfectly. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients and enjoy a burst of flavors!