This Easy Mexican Street Corn Salad is colorful and full of flavor! With sweet corn, creamy cheese, and a hint of spice, it’s the perfect side for any meal.
I love how quick it is to whip up! Just mix everything in a bowl, and you’ve got a tasty dish that makes everyone smile. Plus, it’s great for BBQs or picnics! 🌽
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Corn: Fresh corn is sweet and tasty, but frozen corn works just as well when fresh isn’t available. Just thaw it before cooking. I usually prefer fresh for that charred flavor!
Cotija Cheese: This cheese gives a nice salty crunch. If you can’t find cotija, feta is a good alternative. It has a similar crumbly texture but a slightly stronger flavor.
Mayonnaise and Sour Cream: These add creaminess to the salad. For a lighter version, Greek yogurt makes a great substitute for either. It’s tangy and adds a healthy twist!
Jalapeño: Want a little heat? The jalapeño adds a kick! If spicy isn’t your thing, leave it out or use a milder pepper, like bell pepper, instead.
How Do You Char Corn for Maximum Flavor?
Charring corn adds a wonderful smoky flavor that really enhances the salad. Here’s how to do it!
- Heat a dry skillet or grill to medium-high heat. If you’re using fresh corn, cut the kernels off the cob.
- Add the corn kernels to the hot pan or grill. Stir occasionally, letting them sit for a bit to develop color.
- Cook for about 5-7 minutes until they’re slightly blackened and tender. This will make all the difference!
Let the corn cool slightly before mixing it into your salad. This step brings out the best flavors!
Easy Mexican Street Corn Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 4 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels (about 4-5 ears of corn)
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup cotija cheese, crumbled (or feta cheese as substitute)
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped (optional for heat)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 3 green onions, sliced
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice (about 1 lime)
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lime wedges, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy and delicious Mexican Street Corn Salad takes about 20 minutes to prepare. If you’re charring fresh corn, it may take a little bit longer (around 5-7 minutes) for that extra flavor. Overall, it comes together quickly, making it a perfect side dish or snack for any occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Char the Corn:
To bring out the best flavor, start by charring the corn. If you’re using fresh corn, either cut the kernels off the cob or keep them on the cob for grilling. Heat a dry skillet or grill to medium-high heat and add the corn. Cook until the kernels are slightly blackened and tender, about 5-7 minutes. If you’re using frozen corn, simply thaw and warm it in a skillet until lightly browned.
2. Combine Ingredients:
Once your corn is cooked and cooled slightly, transfer it to a large mixing bowl. Add the mayonnaise, sour cream, minced garlic, lime juice, chili powder, smoked paprika (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir everything together until the corn is well coated and all flavors are combined.
3. Mix in Fresh Ingredients:
Now it’s time to bring in some freshness! Gently fold in the crumbled cotija cheese, chopped cilantro, jalapeño (if you like heat), and sliced green onions. Mix until everything is evenly distributed. Make sure to taste your salad, and feel free to add more seasoning like salt, pepper, or lime juice according to your preference.
4. Garnish and Serve:
To serve, garnish your salad with extra cotija cheese, a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, and a bit of chili powder for added color and flavor. You can serve it warm or at room temperature, alongside fresh lime wedges for squeezing on top. Enjoy this creamy, tangy, slightly spicy salad that captures all the flavors of Mexican street corn!
FAQ for Easy Mexican Street Corn Salad
Can I Use Canned Corn Instead of Fresh or Frozen?
Yes, you can use canned corn in a pinch! Just make sure to drain and rinse the corn before adding it to the salad. Since it’s already cooked, you won’t need to char it, which saves time!
How Long Does This Salad Last in the Fridge?
This salad is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you notice the corn looks a little soggy after a day, feel free to add a bit more lime juice or fresh cilantro to revitalize the flavors.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the corn mixture a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just wait to mix in the cotija cheese and fresh toppings until you’re ready to serve to keep everything fresh and crunchy!
What Can I Serve with Mexican Street Corn Salad?
This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, tacos, or as a side for any Mexican-inspired dish. It’s also delicious on its own as a light lunch or snack. For something different, try serving it with tortilla chips for a tasty dip!
