Mexican Street Corn Salad Fresh and Flavorful Recipe

If you love fresh, bold flavors, you’ll adore this Mexican Street Corn Salad! In this easy recipe, I’ll show you how to take sweet, grilled corn and transform it into a creamy, zesty salad that’s perfect for any occasion. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a dish rich in flavor and texture. Join me as we dive into this delightful summer treat!

Ingredients

List of Main Ingredients

- 4 ears of fresh corn

- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese

- 1/2 cup mayonnaise

- 1/4 cup sour cream

Additional Flavorings & Toppings

- 1/4 cup freshly chopped cilantro

- 1 teaspoon chili powder

- Juice of 1 lime

- Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Ingredients

- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced

- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped

- 1 jalapeño, finely diced

To make a great Mexican street corn salad, you need fresh ingredients. Start with four ears of corn. The corn should be sweet and crisp. Next, have some crumbled feta cheese ready. This cheese adds a nice salty flavor. You’ll also need mayonnaise and sour cream. These two make the salad creamy and rich.

For extra taste, grab some cilantro. You will want it chopped fresh. A teaspoon of chili powder gives a nice kick. Don’t forget the juice of one lime. This adds brightness to the dish. Lastly, have salt and pepper handy to season.

If you want to add more color and crunch, consider some optional ingredients. Diced red bell pepper adds sweetness. Finely chopped red onion brings a bit of bite. For those who like heat, a jalapeño, finely diced, is a great choice.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Corn

First, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This step is crucial for good charring. Once the grill is hot, place the husked corn directly onto the grates. Grill the corn for about 10 to 12 minutes. Turn the corn every few minutes. You want an even char on all sides. Once it's charred and cooked through, take the corn off the grill and let it cool for a bit.

Cutting and Mixing

After the corn cools enough to handle, grab a sharp knife. Carefully cut the kernels off the cob. Be sure to catch all the kernels in a large mixing bowl. Next, it’s time to combine the corn with the other ingredients. Add the crumbled feta cheese, fresh cilantro, diced red bell pepper, and finely chopped red onion to the bowl. Mix them gently to combine.

Dressing and Serving

Now, let’s prepare the dressing. In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until it’s smooth. Drizzle this dressing over your corn mixture. Gently stir until everything is evenly coated. If you love spice, fold in the finely diced jalapeño.

Next, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid. Chill the salad in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This helps the flavors meld together and makes it taste even better. For a great presentation, serve the salad in a large bowl or individual cups. Add a sprinkle of crumbled feta and a handful of chopped cilantro on top. Include lime wedges on the side for a fresh squeeze.

Tips & Tricks

Grilling Tips

To get the perfect char on your corn, make sure your grill is hot. I recommend preheating it to medium-high heat. Place the husked corn directly on the grates. Grill for about 10 to 12 minutes. Turn the corn every few minutes to char all sides evenly. If you want to try other cooking methods, you can boil or roast the corn. Boiling takes about 5-7 minutes, while roasting in the oven at 400°F takes about 20 minutes.

Ingredient Customization

If you want to change the cheese, try using queso fresco or cotija. Both add a nice flavor. You can also adjust the spice levels. If you like it hot, add more chili powder or finely diced jalapeño. For a milder taste, use less spice or skip the jalapeño.

Flavor Enhancement

To add depth, consider using fresh herbs like basil or mint. A little garlic powder can also boost the flavor. Chill the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors mix well. When serving, consider garnishing with extra feta and cilantro. Lime wedges on the side add a bright touch.

Variations

Different Texture Additions

You can add fun textures to your Mexican street corn salad. Try mixing in crunchy elements like nuts or seeds. Toasted pumpkin seeds or chopped walnuts give a nice bite. You can also stir in diced avocado for creaminess. The avocado will make the salad smooth and rich.

Regional Variations

Every region in Mexico has its twist on street corn. In some areas, they use cotija cheese instead of feta. Others might add different spices based on local tastes. While you can use authentic ingredients, feel free to swap them. For example, if you can't find fresh corn, canned corn works too.

Dietary Adjustments

You can easily make a vegan version of this salad. Swap the mayonnaise and sour cream with vegan alternatives. There are many brands available that taste just as good. For those who are gluten-free, this salad is perfect as is. Just make sure your ingredients, like mayonnaise, are gluten-free.

Storage Info

Best Practices for Refrigeration

To store leftovers safely, place the salad in a clean bowl. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or a lid. This keeps the flavors fresh. Use airtight containers for best results. Glass or plastic containers work well. Always let the salad cool before refrigerating.

Shelf Life

Mexican Street Corn Salad lasts about three to four days in the fridge. Check for signs of spoilage before eating. If you see mold or an off smell, throw it away. The salad may also become watery as it sits. This is normal, but quality may drop.

Freezing Option

You can freeze Mexican Street Corn Salad, but it changes texture. The corn may become mushy when thawed. If you want to freeze it, do so without the dressing. To thaw, place it in the fridge overnight. Use it within a day or two after thawing for the best taste.

FAQs

What other ingredients can I add to Mexican Street Corn Salad?

You can add many tasty ingredients to this salad. Here are some ideas:

- Diced avocado for creaminess

- Black beans for protein

- Chopped green onions for freshness

- Corn nuts for crunch

- A sprinkle of cotija cheese for a different flavor

These additions can enhance the taste and texture. Feel free to mix and match based on your preferences.

Can I prepare Mexican Street Corn Salad in advance?

Yes, you can make this salad ahead of time. It actually tastes better after sitting for a while. I recommend chilling it for at least 30 minutes before serving. You can prepare it a few hours earlier and keep it in the fridge. Just wait to add any crunchy toppings until you’re ready to serve.

Is there a traditional way to serve this dish?

Traditionally, Mexican street corn is served on the cob, coated with cheese, lime, and spices. For the salad, serve it in a big bowl or individual cups. Garnish with extra feta cheese and cilantro for a bright touch. Adding lime wedges on the side lets everyone customize their flavor.

What can I serve with Mexican Street Corn Salad?

This salad pairs well with many dishes. Here are some suggestions:

- Grilled meats like chicken or steak

- Tacos for a festive meal

- A light fish dish for a fresh combo

- Tortilla chips for a crunchy side

These options will create a delicious meal that everyone will enjoy.

How do I make the salad spicier?

To add heat to your salad, include jalapeños. Finely dice one and mix it in with the other ingredients. You can also use hot sauce or extra chili powder. Adjust the amount based on how spicy you want it. Taste as you go to find your perfect level of heat.

This blog covers everything you need to know about making Mexican Street Corn Salad. From main ingredients like corn and feta to optional items like jalapeños, I hope you found tips for making it your own. I shared methods for grilling, serving, and storing your salad. You can even adjust it for different diets. No matter how you serve it, this dish is sure to please. Enjoy experimenting and discovering your own flavors with this tasty salad!