A warm summer evening, the scent of grilled corn wafting through the air, is the perfect backdrop for enjoying a colorful dish bursting with flavors. This Mexican Street Corn Salad combines sweet corn with zesty lime and creamy cotija cheese, creating a delightful salad that takes just 15 minutes to prepare. It’s a perfect side that complements grilled meats and sandwiches beautifully.
This recipe is ideal for anyone looking to brighten up a summer barbecue or potluck. The salad can be prepared in advance and chilled until ready to serve, making it a convenient choice for gatherings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- The combination of textures from fresh corn and creamy dressing makes every bite satisfying.
- It comes together in just 15 minutes, making it a quick and easy dish.
- The smoky, tangy flavors are irresistibly refreshing and perfect for summer.
- It can be served warm or chilled, offering versatility for any occasion.
What You’ll Need
Gather the following ingredients to create this vibrant salad.
For the Salad
- 4 cups corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 2 tablespoons salted butter
- ½ cup cotija cheese, crumbled (plus extra for garnish)
- ½ cup chopped fresh cilantro
- ¼ cup finely chopped red onion
For the Dressing
- 3 tablespoons Mexican crema (or sour cream)
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 2 limes, juiced
- ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ¼ teaspoon ground cumin
- ¼ teaspoon chili powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ⅛ teaspoon black pepper
Use fresh corn for the best flavor.
Substitutions & Swaps
- Replace cotija cheese with feta for a similar taste.
- Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.
- Swap lime juice with lemon juice if necessary.
- Cilantro can be substituted with parsley if desired.
How to Make It
Here’s how to create this delicious salad in just a few simple steps.
Prepare the Corn
If using fresh corn on the cob, use a knife to vertically slice the kernels from the cob. If using canned corn, drain and discard the liquid.
Sauté the Corn
Melt the butter in a cast-iron skillet or non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Add the corn kernels. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, until browned and tender. You may need to sear in separate batches depending on your pan size.
Cool the Corn
Remove the pan from the heat and cool the corn completely to room temperature.
Combine Ingredients
Transfer the corn to a large bowl and stir in remaining ingredients until well combined.
Garnish and Chill
Sprinkle with a bit of crumbled cotija cheese and garnish with chopped cilantro. Chill until ready to serve. The salad can be served warm or cold.
How to Store It
Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: No, it does not freeze well due to the texture.
Reheat: Enjoy cold; no reheating needed.
Tips for Best Results
- Make sure the corn is fully cooled before mixing to preserve texture.
- Use fresh cilantro for a bright flavor contrast.
- Adjust spices according to personal preference for heat.
- Consider adding diced jalapeños for an extra kick.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve alongside grilled chicken or steak for a delicious meal.
- Pair it with tacos for a complete Mexican feast.
- Offer it at picnics or potlucks as refreshing party food.
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