Name: Mexican Street Corn Salad Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 18 min
Ingredients: 4 ears fresh corn, husked; extra-virgin olive oil, for brushing; 1.5 tablespoons mayo, or vegan mayo; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1 lime zest and juice; 0.33 cup chopped scallions; 0.25 cup crumbled Cotija, or feta cheese; 0.25 cup finely chopped fresh cilantro; 0.25 teaspoon smoked paprika, or chili powder; 1 piece jalapeño pepper, diced (Roast alongside corn if desired); 0.25 teaspoon sea salt

Introduction to Mexican Street Corn Salad

As summer rolls in, who doesn’t crave something deliciously refreshing and bursting with flavor? Enter the Mexican Street Corn Salad! This dish takes that iconic street corn experience—think grilled corn slathered in creamy goodness, zesty lime, and a hint of spice—and transforms it into a vibrant salad that’s perfect for any outdoor gathering or weeknight dinner.

Why is Mexican Street Corn Salad the perfect summer dish?

Imagine sinking your teeth into juicy kernels of corn, perfectly charred and blended with rich mayo, fresh lime, and a sprinkle of crumbly cheese. It's a flavor explosion that captures the essence of summer and makes you feel joyfully nostalgic. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to whip up! Just fire up the grill, throw on some corn, and in minutes, you have a gorgeous side dish that everyone will love.

Best of all, this Mexican Street Corn Salad Recipe is versatile; it pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or can shine as a stand-alone option at your next barbecue. Health-conscious or not, you'll enjoy the added nutrients from fresh ingredients like cilantro and jalapeños, making it not just tasty but also a fun way to get creative with seasonal produce.

Dive into the details of this delightful dish below and get ready to impress your friends and family with a salad that's full of life!

Ingredients for Mexican Street Corn Salad

Key ingredients for a fresh and vibrant salad

To create a delicious Mexican Street Corn Salad, you'll need a selection of fresh ingredients that contribute to its signature taste and texture. Here’s what you’ll gather:

Fresh corn: 4 ears, husked for maximum sweetness.
Extra-virgin olive oil: A light brush adds richness.
Mayonnaise: 1½ tablespoons for creaminess (or use vegan mayo if you prefer).
Garlic: 1 clove, minced, to enhance flavor.
Lime: Zest and juice from 1 lime, balancing flavors with citrusy brightness.
Scallions: ⅓ cup, chopped for a mild onion kick.
Cotija cheese: ¼ cup crumbled (feta works as a substitute).
Fresh cilantro: ¼ cup, finely chopped for herby freshness.
Smoked paprika: ¼ teaspoon, delivering depth and warmth.
Jalapeño: 1 diced pepper provides a spicy kick.
Sea salt: ¼ teaspoon to season.

Substitute options for dietary preferences

Don’t have all the ingredients on hand? No problem! Here are some tasty alternatives that keep the essence of your Mexican Street Corn Salad Recipe intact:

Cheese alternatives: Use nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
Spice control: If jalapeños are too hot, try milder peppers or omit them completely.
Vegan mayo: Perfect for a non-dairy version, it maintains creaminess.
Corn substitutes: Frozen sweet corn is an excellent alternative in a pinch.

Feel free to get creative! The beauty of this salad is its adaptability to suit your tastes. What will you swap?

Preparing Mexican Street Corn Salad

Creating a delightful Mexican Street Corn Salad Recipe doesn’t have to be daunting! This easy-to-follow guide will help you whip up this delicious salad that'll impress your friends and family at your next gathering. Let’s dive into the steps!

Gather Your Ingredients

Before you start, ensure you have everything you need. Having your ingredients ready simplifies the cooking process and ultimately enhances your culinary experience. Here’s what you'll need:

4 ears of fresh corn, husked
Extra-virgin olive oil, for brushing
1½ tablespoons mayo (or vegan mayo)
1 garlic clove, minced
Zest and juice of 1 lime
⅓ cup chopped scallions
¼ cup crumbled Cotija or feta cheese
¼ cup finely chopped fresh cilantro
¼ teaspoon smoked paprika or chili powder
1 jalapeño pepper, diced (optional: roast it alongside the corn)
¼ teaspoon sea salt

Isn’t it easy to gather fresh ingredients? Don't forget to shout out to local farmers' markets for the freshest corn!

Prep the Corn for Grilling

First things first: you need to prepare the corn. Husk the ears of corn and remove all the silk. Once cleaned, brush the corn with a bit of extra-virgin olive oil. This not only prevents sticking on the grill but also adds flavor.

Did you know that grilling corn enhances its natural sweetness and adds a smoky flavor? Best of both worlds, right?

Make the Creamy Dressing

While your corn is grilling, it’s time to whip up that creamy dressing! In a large bowl, combine the mayo, minced garlic, and lime zest and juice. Mixing these ingredients allows the flavors to meld beautifully—a perfect base for your salad.

Feel free to adjust the lime juice according to your preference. A little extra zest can brighten your salad even further!

Grill the Corn to Perfection

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. When it's hot, place your oiled corn directly on the grill. Grill each ear for about two minutes per side, turning until you see those gorgeous char marks. This gives the corn that beloved smoky flavor while keeping the kernels juicy.

Once done, remove the corn from the grill and allow it to cool slightly before slicing off the kernels. Pro tip: let the corn cool down a bit to avoid burning your fingers!

Combine Ingredients for the Salad

Now comes the fun part—building your salad! In the bowl with your creamy dressing, add the grilled corn kernels, scallions, crumbled cheese, cilantro, smoked paprika, diced jalapeño, and sea salt. Toss everything together until the ingredients are well coated with the dressing.

Taste your creation and adjust seasoning as needed. This colorful salad is best served immediately but can also be chilled in the fridge to let the flavors meld even more!

And there you have it—a vibrant and tasty Mexican Street Corn Salad that encapsulates the essence of summer. Enjoy sharing this dish with loved ones at your next BBQ or picnic!

Variations of Mexican Street Corn Salad

Grilled Mexican Street Corn Salad with Chicken

Elevate your Mexican Street Corn Salad Recipe by adding juicy grilled chicken. Simply season chicken breasts with lime juice, salt, and pepper, and grill until cooked through. Once you have your corn ready, combine it with diced chicken, mayo, and all the traditional toppings. This adds protein, making it a perfect main dish or hearty side. It’s a great way to impress guests at summer barbecues—everyone loves grill marks!

Vegan Mexican Street Corn Salad

For a plant-based twist, try this vegan version. Replace the mayo with a creamy avocado dressing or a plant-based alternative. Omit the cheese or use vegan cheese for that signature creaminess. Packed with vibrant flavors and textures, this Mexican Street Corn Salad stays true to its roots while accommodating dietary choices. It's a guilt-free way to enjoy this classic dish, perfect for health-conscious foodies or those with dietary restrictions!

Discover more delightful variations of Mexican recipes from trusted sources like Cooking Light and Serious Eats.

Cooking tips for Mexican Street Corn Salad

Tips for choosing fresh corn

When selecting corn for your Mexican Street Corn Salad, look for ears with bright green husks and moist silk. The kernels should be plump and tightly packed, a sign of freshness. Did you know that in-season corn is sweeter? So try to buy locally if possible! Aim for farm stands or farmer markets, where you'll find the freshest options.

Best practices for grilling corn

For perfect grilling, preheat your grill to medium-high heat and brush the corn with extra-virgin olive oil. Grill the corn for about 2 minutes on each side until you see those beautiful char marks. This adds a smoky flavor that elevates your salad. If you’re short on time, try roasting your corn in the oven at 400°F for about 20-25 minutes, wrapping it in foil for moisture.

Enjoy your culinary adventure making this delightful Mexican Street Corn Salad Recipe!

Serving suggestions for Mexican Street Corn Salad

Perfect pairings for your salad

This Mexican Street Corn Salad Recipe shines when served alongside grilled proteins like chicken or turkey bacon. The smoky flavors of grilled foods complement the salad's zest beautifully. For a vegetarian option, consider pairing it with black bean tacos or a quinoa bowl. A light dressing of yogurt or a tangy vinaigrette can elevate your meal, too. Don’t forget to serve refreshing drinks, like lemonade or mint-infused iced tea, to balance out the richness!

Creative ways to serve at gatherings

Planning a get-together? Present this salad in a large, colorful bowl as a striking centerpiece. Offer mini serving cups for individual portions, making it a fun appetizer option. You could also use taco shells as edible bowls for a playful twist. For a potluck, consider layering the salad in a mason jar for an eye-catching display—just remember to mix it up before serving. With these ideas, your Mexican Street Corn Salad will surely be a hit that brings everyone together!

Time breakdown for Mexican Street Corn Salad

Preparation time

Getting everything ready for this Mexican Street Corn Salad Recipe will take about 10 minutes. That includes husking the corn and chopping up the fresh ingredients.

Cooking time

The grilling process is quick—only about 8 minutes. You’ll grill the corn until it gets those lovely char marks that add flavor!

Total time

In total, expect to spend around 18 minutes from start to finish. It’s a breeze, making this salad perfect for spontaneous summer gatherings! Want more tips on making the most of your fresh ingredients? Check out this helpful guide on prepping summer vegetables.

Nutritional Facts for Mexican Street Corn Salad

Calories

This vibrant Mexican Street Corn Salad Recipe packs approximately 200 calories per serving, making it a guilt-free addition to your summer meals.

Protein

With about 5 grams of protein per serving, this dish offers a decent amount to help fuel your body without overwhelming your diet.

Carbohydrates

Rounding out the nutrition, you'll find roughly 20 grams of carbohydrates in each serving. This makes it a fantastic option that balances taste and energy, perfect for those long summer days.

Whether you're serving it at a backyard barbecue or enjoying it as a light lunch, this salad is as delicious as it is nutritious! For more information on healthy eating, check out the USDA’s nutritional database.

FAQs about Mexican Street Corn Salad

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! Mexican street corn salad tastes even better after the flavors meld together. You can prepare it a few hours in advance or store it in the fridge overnight. Just remember to give it a good stir before serving to redistribute those delicious flavors!

What can I use instead of Cotija cheese?

If Cotija isn’t available, don't worry! Feta cheese is a fantastic substitute, offering a similar crumbly texture and salty flavor. For a dairy-free option, try vegan cheese or omit it altogether — the salad will still be tasty without cheese!

How can I spice up the salad?

Want a little extra kick? Add more diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper. For a smoky flavor, consider increasing the smoked paprika. You could even toss in some diced red onion for added crunch and flavor. The beauty of this Mexican street corn salad recipe is that it’s easily customizable to suit your taste buds!

Conclusion on Mexican Street Corn Salad

In summary, this Mexican Street Corn Salad Recipe is a delightful combination of flavors that'll brighten your meals. Perfect for summer gatherings or a simple dinner side, it brings together sweetness, spice, and creaminess effortlessly. Try it out and savor the compliments you'll receive from friends and family!