Mexican Corn Salad
This Mexican Corn Salad recipe brings the flavors of classic Mexican street corn to your table in a quick, easy-to-make side dish. Featured on Everyday Excellent, this Mexican street corn salad recipe combines sweet, char-grilled corn with creamy mayonnaise, tangy lime, zesty jalapeño, and crumbled cotija cheese for a bold, refreshing flavor. Perfect for BBQs, weeknight dinners, or summer picnics, this vibrant salad is easy to assemble and delivers big taste in every bite.
The Inspiration
The inspiration for this Mexican Corn Salad comes from elote, the beloved Mexican street corn traditionally served on skewers with butter, cheese, and spices. This salad version transforms the classic into a shareable, family-friendly dish while keeping the bold, smoky, and creamy flavors intact. Host Vanessa Gianfrancesco loves recipes that are approachable yet full of flavor, and this dish fits perfectly with Everyday Excellent’s focus on accessible, vibrant meals. By grilling the corn and combining it with creamy mayo, zesty lime, and fresh herbs, this salad is a celebration of Mexican flavors without requiring complicated steps or ingredients.
Ingredients
- 4 corn on the cob, husked
- 1/4 cup (58 g) mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup (58 g) sour cream
- 1/3 cup (22 g) cotija or feta cheese
- 4 scallions, chopped
- 5 sprigs cilantro, finely chopped
- 1 jalapeno, seeded and chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp (2 g) paprika
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt and pepper to taste
Method
- Place a lightly oiled grilled pan over medium heat. Add the corn and cook, turning occasionally, until lightly charred on all sides, about 10 minutes. The grilling process enhances the natural sweetness and adds a smoky depth of flavor.
- Once grilled, carefully shave the kernels off the cobs into a large mixing bowl. Grilled corn off the cob is easier to mix and let every bite carry that signature charred flavor.
- Add mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, minced garlic, paprika, finely chopped cilantro, jalapeño, and scallions to the bowl. Stir until everything is evenly combined, creating a creamy, tangy, and slightly spicy dressing that coats each kernel.
- Fold in crumbled cotija or feta cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the seasoning as needed to balance the creaminess with the tang and heat.
- Transfer the salad to a serving bowl and garnish with extra cilantro, paprika, or a squeeze of lime. Serve immediately as a side to grilled meats, tacos, or a casual summer spread.
Serving Suggestions
This Mexican Corn Salad is ideal as a side for BBQs, picnics, taco nights, or casual dinners. Pair with grilled chicken, steak, or fish tacos for a complete Tex-Mex meal. Serve alongside tortilla chips, avocado slices, or black bean salad for a festive and colorful spread.
For entertaining, place in a large bowl with garnishes like extra cotija, paprika, and cilantro. Guests can serve themselves, making it perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or summer parties. Its vibrant colors and bold flavors make it a centerpiece that’s as delicious as it looks.
Final Thoughts
This Mexican Corn Salad recipe is a celebration of bold, vibrant Mexican flavors brought together in a simple, shareable side dish. Featuring grilled corn, creamy mayonnaise, zesty lime, fresh cilantro, jalapeño, and crumbly cotija cheese, it’s a flavor-packed option for BBQs, taco nights, picnics, or casual weeknight dinners. Featured on Everyday Excellent, this recipe demonstrates how fresh ingredients and minimal cooking can create a dish that’s both visually stunning and irresistibly delicious.
Perfect for entertaining or meal prep, this Mexican Corn Salad is highly versatile. You can adjust spice levels, swap cheeses, or add extra herbs to match your taste. Its combination of smoky, sweet, creamy, and tangy elements ensures each bite is satisfying and memorable. By keeping the focus on Mexican street corn-inspired flavors, this recipe is a standout side that pairs beautifully with grilled meats, tacos, or even as a topping for bowls and salads.
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