Name: Mexican Street Corn Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 7 min
Total time: 17 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 4 cups corn (fresh, frozen, or canned; if using frozen, thaw first); 1 tbsp vegetable oil (for sautéing); ½ cup mayonnaise; ¼ cup sour cream; ½ cup cotija cheese or feta, crumbled; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1 small jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped (optional for heat); 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro; Juice of 1 lime; ½ tsp chili powder; ¼ tsp smoked paprika; Salt and pepper, to taste; Extra cotija cheese; Cilantro leaves; Lime wedges; Dash of chili powder or Tajín seasoning (optional)

Description

Bring the bold and zesty flavors of Mexican street food right to your kitchen with this Mexican Street Corn Salad. Inspired by the beloved elote, this off-the-cob version is tangy, creamy, and perfectly spiced. It’s the perfect side dish for summer cookouts, taco nights, or whenever you crave something vibrant and delicious.

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Ingredients

Scale

For the Salad:

4 cups corn (fresh, frozen, or canned; if using frozen, thaw first)
1 tbsp vegetable oil (for sautéing)
½ cup mayonnaise
¼ cup sour cream
½ cup cotija cheese or feta, crumbled
1 clove garlic, minced
1 small jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped (optional for heat)
2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro
Juice of 1 lime
½ tsp chili powder
¼ tsp smoked paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste

For Garnish:

Extra cotija cheese
Cilantro leaves
Lime wedges
Dash of chili powder or Tajín seasoning (optional)

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Instructions

Step 1: Char the Corn
Heat 1 tbsp oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the corn and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it starts to char slightly.
Let the corn cool for a few minutes before mixing.

Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Dressing
In a large mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, garlic, lime juice, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Mix until smooth and well combined.

Step 3: Mix the Salad
Add the slightly cooled corn to the bowl with the dressing.
Stir in cotija cheese, chopped cilantro, and jalapeño if using.
Mix everything together until the corn is well coated with the creamy mixture.

Step 4: Garnish & Serve
Transfer the salad to a serving dish.
Top with extra cheese, fresh cilantro, and a sprinkle of chili powder or Tajín for extra zing.
Serve with lime wedges on the side for an added burst of citrus.

Notes

Char the Corn – Adds smoky flavor just like the street-style original.
Don’t Skip the Lime – It brightens the dish and balances the creaminess.
Use Cotija – For authenticity; but feta is a great alternative if cotija is unavailable.
Make Ahead – Prepares well ahead of time; just stir before serving.
Control the Heat – Adjust jalapeño and chili powder based on your spice preference.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 7 minutes
Cuisine: Mexican