Mexican Street Corn Salad
This Mexican Street Corn Salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish perfect for parties. Inspired by traditional Elote, it combines sweet corn, creamy dressing, and a hint of spice.
Equipment
- 1 Grill or grill pan
- 1 large mixing bowl
- 1 knife for chopping
- 1 cutting board
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 ears of corn husked
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup cotija cheese crumbled
- 2 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro chopped
- 3 green onions sliced
- 1 jalapeño seeded and diced (optional)
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Place the husked corn directly on the grill and cook, turning occasionally, until lightly charred on all sides, about 8-10 minutes.
- Allow the grilled corn to cool slightly. Using a sharp knife, carefully cut the kernels off the cob and transfer them to a large mixing bowl.
- In a small bowl, mix together mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, and chili powder until smooth. Adjust seasoning with additional lime juice or chili powder if desired.
- Add the dressing to the bowl with the corn kernels. Stir in the cotija cheese, chopped cilantro, sliced green onions, and diced jalapeño (if using). Toss until the corn is evenly coated.
Chilling and Serving
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Transfer the chilled salad to a serving dish. Garnish with additional cilantro and a sprinkle of chili powder if desired. Serve cold or at room temperature.
Storage
- Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir before serving as the dressing may settle.
Notes
Pro Tips: Make the salad a day ahead to enhance flavors. Adjust the spice level by varying the amount of jalapeño and chili powder. Ingredient Substitutions: Feta cheese can be used in place of cotija. Greek yogurt is an alternative to sour cream. How to Serve: Serve chilled or at room temperature. Ideal for potlucks and as a side for grilled meats. Storage & Freshness: Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare all components in advance and combine just before serving for optimal freshness.