Name: Mexican Street Corn Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 4 ears fresh corn (shucked, kernels removed (about 3 cups fresh corn kernels)); Kosher salt (to taste); 2 ounces feta or Cotija cheese (finely crumbled); 1/2 cup finely sliced scallions (green parts only); 1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves (finely chopped); 1 jalapeño pepper (seeded and stemmed, finely chopped); 1 to 2 cloves garlic (pressed or minced on a Microplane grater (about 1 to 2 teaspoons)); 2 tablespoons mayonnaise; 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice (from 1 lime); Chile powder or hot chile flakes (to taste)

Introduction to Mexican Street Corn Salad

Mexican Street Corn Salad, or Esquites, is a vibrant and flavorful dish that brings the essence of street food right to your home. If you’ve ever wandered through a bustling market or enjoyed a sunny day at a food festival, you might have caught the intoxicating aroma of grilled corn topped with zesty spices. This salad encapsulates all those delightful flavors in a convenient and shareable format.

Why is Mexican Street Corn Salad a must-try dish?

Bold Flavors: The combination of fresh corn, tangy lime juice, and creamy cheese creates a taste explosion in every bite. It’s like a party for your palate!
Versatile: Whether you're hosting a barbecue, planning a picnic, or simply craving a delicious side dish, this salad fits right into any occasion. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats or can shine as a light vegetarian option.
Easy to Prepare: With minimal cooking time and simple ingredients, you can whip up this dish in just 20 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings!

If you want to learn how to make this incredible salad from scratch, follow our full recipe here. You’ll be impressing your friends before you know it!

Ingredients for Mexican Street Corn Salad

To whip up a delicious Mexican Street Corn Salad, you’ll need a handful of fresh, vibrant ingredients that will create a flavor explosion in each bite. Here’s what you’ll want to gather before diving into this easy recipe:

Vegetable oil: 2 tablespoons for that perfect char on the corn.
Fresh corn: 4 ears, shucked and kernels removed (around 3 cups).
Kosher salt: Essential for seasoning.
Feta or Cotija cheese: 2 ounces, finely crumbled for a creamy texture.
Scallions: ½ cup, finely sliced, just the green parts for freshness.
Cilantro: ½ cup of freshly chopped leaves brings an aromatic touch.
Jalapeño pepper: 1, finely chopped for a hint of spice.
Garlic: 1 to 2 medium cloves, pressed or minced for depth of flavor.
Mayonnaise: 2 tablespoons for creaminess.
Lime juice: 1 tablespoon from a fresh lime, to add a zesty kick.
Chile powder or hot chile flakes: Adjust to taste for heat.

These ingredients come together beautifully, creating a vibrant and satisfying dish perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying as a side. Curious about sourcing quality corn? Check out this guide on how to buy and prep fresh corn for the best results!

Preparing Mexican Street Corn Salad

Creating a vibrant and flavorful Mexican Street Corn Salad is easier than you might think! This delightful dish, known as esquites, brings the taste of street food right to your kitchen. Let’s dive into the process step by step.

Gather Your Fresh Ingredients

Before you get started, it's essential to bring together all your fresh ingredients. Here's what you'll need:

4 ears of fresh corn
2 ounces of feta or Cotija cheese
½ cup finely sliced scallions (green parts only)
½ cup fresh cilantro leaves
1 jalapeño pepper
1 to 2 medium cloves of garlic
2 tablespoons mayonnaise
1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
Chile powder or hot chile flakes for that extra kick

Once you have everything, you'll be ready to create a scrumptious Mexican Street Corn Salad! Don’t forget to check out this handy guide to properly prep those corn kernels!

Char the Corn for That Smoky Flavor

First things first: let’s get that corn going! Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large nonstick skillet over high heat. Once it's shimmering, toss in your corn kernels. Season lightly with kosher salt and let them cook undisturbed until they get a beautiful char. You want that smoky flavor, so don’t rush this step!

Cook one side for about 2 minutes.
Give it a good toss and cook the other side for another 2 minutes.
Keep at it until you achieve a nice char all over, which usually takes about 10 minutes in total.

Transfer those lovely charred kernels to a large bowl. Trust me, the smoky aroma will have your kitchen smelling divine!

Mix in the Cheese and Veggies

Next, it’s time to elevate your Mexican Street Corn Salad! Add the crumbled cheese (feta or Cotija), scallions, chopped cilantro, diced jalapeño, and minced garlic to the bowl. Each ingredient adds its own dimension to the salad, creating a mix that captures summer flavors all year round.

Give everything a good toss so that the flavors meld together. If you haven't tasted the mixture yet, now's the time to do a quick taste test. Adjust seasoning as needed!

Add the Creamy Dressing

To really bring it all together, it’s essential to add a creamy dressing. Combine the mayonnaise with fresh lime juice in a small bowl. This mixture is where you get that lovely creaminess and tang that complements the smoky corn perfectly. Drizzle it over the salad, then sprinkle with chile powder or hot chile flakes to your preference.

Toss and Serve Up a Fiesta in a Bowl!

Finally, give everything one last good toss. Make sure all those delicious ingredients are well combined. Serve your vibrant Mexican Street Corn Salad fresh and warm, or refrigerate for a while to serve it chilled.

That’s it! You've just created a fiesta in a bowl, perfect for gatherings or enjoying on your own. So, grab a fork and dig into this vibrant, mouthwatering dish that’s sure to impress everyone you share it with!

Variations on Mexican Street Corn Salad

Spicy Mexican Street Corn Salad Variations

If you love your Mexican Street Corn Salad with an extra kick, consider adding diced serrano peppers alongside the jalapeños. A sprinkle of hot sauce or a dash of chipotle powder will intensify the flavor profile, making your salad a spicy sensation. Want even more depth? Try incorporating smoked paprika for that irresistible smoky undertone.

Vegetarian Twist on the Classic

For a delightful vegetarian variation, swap out the cheese for a nut-based option like cashew cheese. This not only accommodates dietary preferences but also adds a creamy texture that's simply divine. Add in some roasted chickpeas for crunch and extra protein, turning your Mexican Street Corn Salad into a hearty dish perfect for a summer barbecue or a lunch meal.

Try exploring these variations to keep your recipe fresh and exciting!

Cooking tips and notes for Mexican Street Corn Salad

Creating a vibrant Mexican Street Corn Salad is surprisingly simple! Here are some handy tips to elevate your dish.

Choosing Corn: Fresh corn on the cob is key for this salad. Look for ears with bright green husks and plump, milky kernels. For a quick guide on selecting corn, check out this resource.
Charring for Flavor: Don't skip the charring step! This is what gives your Mexican Street Corn Salad that delicious smoky flavor. Aim for a nice, deep color but avoid burning.
Customizing Spice Levels: Adjust the heat by modifying the amount of jalapeño or chile powder you add. You can always experiment with different peppers for variation!
Make Ahead: If you want to enjoy this dish later, prepare the corn and let it cool before adding fresh ingredients like cheese and lime juice. This way, everything stays fresh!

Enjoy your cooking adventure!

Serving Suggestions for Mexican Street Corn Salad

Mexican Street Corn Salad is not just a dish; it’s an experience. Here are some fantastic ways to enjoy this vibrant salad:

As a Side Dish: Pair it with grilled chicken or Turkey Bacon for an easy weeknight dinner. The freshness of the salad complements rich flavors beautifully.
Taco Topping: Use it as a zesty topping for tacos or burritos. A spoonful of this salad can elevate your meal to new heights!
Game Day Snack: Serve it with tortilla chips for a refreshing dip. Trust me, your friends will keep coming back for more.
Picnic Essential: Pack it up for your next outdoor gathering. The flavor gets even better as it sits.

For some additional creativity, try using leftovers in a quesadilla or wrap. The options are endless! For expert tips on serving, check out Food & Wine.

Time Breakdown for Mexican Street Corn Salad

Preparation Time

Get your ingredients ready in just 5 minutes. Shucking the corn, chopping veggies, and measuring everything out is a breeze!

Cooking Time

Spend about 15 minutes over the stove. The real magic happens as you char the corn, giving it that delightful, smoky flavor.

Total Time

In just 20 minutes, you’ll have a delicious and vibrant Mexican Street Corn Salad ready to impress your friends or spice up your weeknight dinner. It's quick, easy, and oh-so-satisfying!

If you're looking to learn more about the benefits of fresh corn, check out Serious Eats for expert advice!

Nutritional Facts for Mexican Street Corn Salad

When you whip up a vibrant Mexican Street Corn Salad, you not only treat your taste buds but also nourish your body. Here’s a quick breakdown of its nutritional profile:

Calories

Each serving contains approximately 180 calories, making it a great choice for a light meal or a delightful side dish.

Protein

This salad packs around 6 grams of protein per serving, mainly from the fresh corn and cheese, adding a satisfying component to your meal.

Sodium

With about 200 mg of sodium per serving, it’s moderate in salt content, making it a flavorful yet balanced option for your diet.

Understanding these numbers helps you enjoy this dish while being mindful of your nutritional intake! For more tips on healthy eating, check out sources like Healthline or Mayo Clinic.

FAQs about Mexican Street Corn Salad

Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Using frozen corn is a great option when fresh corn isn't available. Just make sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly before cooking. The flavors of the Mexican Street Corn Salad will still shine through, and you’ll save time on prep.

What other toppings can I add to the salad?

Get creative! While feta or Cotija cheese is traditional, feel free to explore additional toppings like diced avocados, grilled bell peppers, or even crispy turkey bacon for an extra crunch. You could also sprinkle on some fresh lime zest for added zing.

How long can I store the Mexican Street Corn Salad in the fridge?

If you have leftovers (which can be hard to come by!), you can store the salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just be aware that the longer it sits, the creamier it gets, and that can alter the texture a bit. Enjoy it as a side, or toss it into wraps and bowls throughout the week!

For more tips on storing and repurposing leftovers, check out this guide on storing salads for additional ideas.

Conclusion on Mexican Street Corn Salad

This vibrant and flavorful Mexican Street Corn Salad is perfect for gatherings or a quick weeknight meal. Its combination of smoky charred corn, creamy cheese, and zesty lime creates a delightful dish that’s sure to please. Give it a try—you’ll love how easy and delicious it is!