This Mexican Street Corn Salad brings together the best of creamy, tangy, and spicy flavors. The grilled corn provides a smoky base that perfectly complements the rich and zesty mayonnaise and sour cream mixture. The addition of cotija cheese and fresh cilantro adds layers of flavor, making this salad a showstopper for any gathering.
Perfect as a side dish for barbecues, picnics, or Taco Tuesdays, this salad is simple to make and packed with fresh ingredients. You can easily customize it by adjusting the spice level with more or less chili powder or cayenne pepper. For an extra kick, add some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. This salad is guaranteed to be a crowd favorite at any event!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
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4 cups fresh corn kernels (about 4 ears of corn)
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1/4 cup mayonnaise
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1/4 cup sour cream
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1 tablespoon lime juice
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1 teaspoon chili powder
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1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
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1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
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1/2 cup crumbled cotija cheese
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2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
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Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
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Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Grill the corn for about 10 minutes, turning occasionally until it is slightly charred. Alternatively, you can use a stovetop grill pan.
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Let the corn cool slightly before cutting the kernels off the cob using a sharp knife.
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In a large bowl, combine the corn kernels with mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and cotija cheese. Stir until the ingredients are evenly distributed.
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Add salt and pepper to taste, then sprinkle with fresh cilantro.
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Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 20 minutes
Kcal: 180 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Mexican Street Corn Salad, also known as Esquites, is a vibrant, creamy, and tangy dish that brings a burst of flavor to any meal. This salad is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can be transformed into something extraordinary, offering a delightful combination of smoky, spicy, and savory tastes. Popular in Mexican cuisine, it is often served as a street food, with vendors grilling fresh corn on the cob and then dressing it with a combination of mayonnaise, sour cream, chili powder, and cheese.
The appeal of Mexican Street Corn Salad lies in its versatility, ease of preparation, and bold flavors, making it an ideal side dish for barbecues, picnics, or even as a light lunch. Whether you’re enjoying it on a hot summer day or serving it at a family gathering, this salad is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.
The Origins of Mexican Street Corn Salad
Mexican Street Corn Salad has its roots in the popular Mexican street food called Elote, or Mexican street corn. The traditional preparation of Elote involves grilling corn on the cob and then slathering it with a mixture of mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, and cotija cheese. It’s often finished off with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, offering a savory yet refreshing taste.
Esquites, the version of this dish served as a salad, is simply corn kernels removed from the cob and mixed with the same flavorful ingredients. While Elote is enjoyed on the cob, Esquites is more of a convenient option for people who prefer not to bite into corn on the cob or want a dish that’s easier to serve at gatherings. Both versions share the same bold Mexican flavors, making them a staple of Mexican street food culture.
The Flavor Profile of Mexican Street Corn Salad
The beauty of this salad lies in its complex yet balanced flavor profile. Here’s a breakdown of the primary flavors:
- Smokiness: The corn, grilled to perfection, imparts a smokey depth that complements the creamy dressing. The charring of the corn adds a rich, rustic flavor to the salad.
- Creaminess: A combination of mayonnaise and sour cream creates a smooth and rich texture that binds the corn and other ingredients together, making each bite incredibly satisfying.
- Spiciness: Chili powder and cayenne pepper bring a spicy kick to the dish. The amount of heat can be adjusted to taste, giving you the flexibility to tailor the salad to your liking.
- Tanginess: Lime juice adds a refreshing tang, cutting through the richness of the dressing and balancing the spice and creaminess. The lime also helps to bring all the flavors together.
- Salty and Umami: Cotija cheese offers a salty, crumbly texture that elevates the dish with its deep, umami flavor. This cheese, along with the cilantro, provides an authentic Mexican touch that ties the entire salad together.
Why You’ll Love This Salad
Mexican Street Corn Salad is not only delicious but also versatile. Here are a few reasons why this salad should be a staple in your recipe repertoire:
- Quick and Easy to Prepare: The salad is quick to assemble, requiring only a few ingredients and a little bit of grilling time. It’s perfect for when you need a side dish in a pinch.
- Ideal for Summer Gatherings: Whether you’re hosting a barbecue, picnic, or taco night, this salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, tacos, or even served on its own. It’s light yet flavorful, making it a great accompaniment to any meal.
- Customizable: You can make this dish as spicy or mild as you prefer, depending on how much chili powder or cayenne pepper you add. For those who like it extra spicy, adding a few diced jalapeños can take the heat level to the next level.
- Fresh Ingredients: Made with fresh corn, this salad highlights the natural sweetness of the vegetable. The combination of fresh herbs like cilantro and tangy lime juice brings a burst of freshness to the dish.
Health Benefits of Mexican Street Corn Salad
While Mexican Street Corn Salad is certainly a delicious treat, it also comes with some health benefits, especially when you make it with fresh ingredients. Here are a few reasons why you can feel good about enjoying this dish:
- Corn: Corn is a good source of fiber, which supports digestive health. It’s also rich in antioxidants like lutein and zeaxanthin, which are beneficial for eye health. Additionally, corn is naturally gluten-free, making this salad suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
- Lime: Limes are an excellent source of vitamin C, which helps boost the immune system, promote healthy skin, and fight off free radicals.
- Cilantro: Known for its antioxidant properties, cilantro helps fight inflammation and can even support detoxification. It’s also packed with vitamins A, C, and K, contributing to overall health.
- Cotija Cheese: While cheese is high in fat, cotija provides a modest amount of protein and calcium, which supports bone health.
Serving Suggestions
Mexican Street Corn Salad is an incredibly versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses. Here are a few ideas for serving this salad:
- With Grilled Meats: This salad is a fantastic side dish for grilled chicken, beef, pork, or shrimp. The smoky flavors from the grill on both the meat and the corn complement each other beautifully.
- As a Taco Side: Serve it alongside tacos or burritos for an extra burst of flavor. It pairs especially well with carne asada, grilled fish, or even vegetarian tacos.
- As a Light Meal: This salad is hearty enough to be served as a light lunch or dinner. Pair it with a simple avocado and tomato salad for a balanced meal.
- Topping for Quesadillas: If you’re in the mood for quesadillas, try adding a scoop of this salad on top for added flavor and texture.
Mistakes to Avoid
While this dish is easy to make, there are a few common mistakes you should avoid:
- Overcooking the Corn: If you leave the corn on the grill for too long, it can become too charred and lose its natural sweetness. Aim for just a light char on each side for the best flavor.
- Not Adjusting the Spice: If you don’t like your food too spicy, be sure to adjust the chili powder and cayenne pepper to your taste. It’s easy to add more spice, but difficult to reduce it once it’s in the salad.
- Using the Wrong Cheese: While any cheese could technically work in this salad, cotija cheese is the best choice for its salty, crumbly texture. Substituting it with another cheese, like feta or mozzarella, may not yield the same authentic taste.
- Serving Without Lime: Don’t skip the lime! The fresh tanginess it provides is essential for balancing the richness of the mayonnaise and sour cream.
Conclusion
Mexican Street Corn Salad is a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for a variety of occasions. Whether you’re looking for a refreshing side dish for a summer barbecue or a tasty addition to your taco night, this salad is sure to impress. With its smoky, creamy, and spicy flavors, it brings a touch of Mexican street food culture to your table. Plus, it’s a great way to enjoy fresh corn, making it a healthy and satisfying option for any meal.
Don’t forget to get creative with the toppings and customize it to suit your taste. Add more spice, use different cheeses, or even experiment with other vegetables like diced tomatoes or bell peppers. No matter how you prepare it, Mexican Street Corn Salad is sure to be a hit at your next gathering.
Enjoy this vibrant dish and let the flavors transport you to the streets of Mexico!