Mexican Street Corn Salad

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This Mexican Street Corn Salad is what summer dreams are made of: sweet, smoky, creamy, tangy, and just the right amount of spicy. Inspired by the traditional elote sold by street vendors, this salad transforms it into an easier-to-eat side dish you’ll want to serve with everything.

Grilled corn brings out a natural sweetness and light char, while a creamy lime dressing with cotija cheese, chili powder, and fresh cilantro makes every bite pop with flavor. It’s an irresistible combination that works beautifully with grilled meats, tacos, or just about any backyard barbecue plate.

Why You’ll Love This Mexican Street Corn Salad

This recipe takes everything great about elote and makes it fork-friendly. You don’t need a cob or grill to enjoy all the traditional flavors. It comes together fast, especially if you’re using leftover corn or frozen corn kernels. The creamy, tangy dressing mixed with salty cotija and bright herbs makes this salad perfect for any occasion from potlucks to taco nights.

What Kind of Corn Should I Use for Mexican Street Corn Salad?

Grilled fresh corn is the gold standard for this salad, but it’s not a deal-breaker. If corn is out of season or you’re pressed for time, canned or frozen corn (just thaw and drain it well) will still deliver amazing results. If you do have access to a grill or stovetop griddle, give those kernels some char to capture that authentic street-food essence.

Ingredients for the Mexican Street Corn Salad

This salad starts with corn, of course, but what brings it all together is the dressing and toppings. Every ingredient adds its own layer of flavor and texture, making it totally craveable.

• Corn
• Mayonnaise
• Sour cream
• Cotija cheese
• Fresh lime juice
• Garlic
• Chili powder
• Cilantro
• Green onions
• Salt
• Pepper

How To Make the Mexican Street Corn Salad

Step 1: Char the Corn

Whether using fresh or frozen, give your corn a nice char in a hot skillet or on the grill. This caramelizes the natural sugars and builds a deeper flavor base.

Step 2: Mix the Dressing

In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, minced garlic, chili powder, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.

Step 3: Toss It All Together

Add the charred corn, crumbled cotija cheese, chopped cilantro, and green onions to the bowl with the dressing. Mix until everything is evenly coated and well combined.

Step 4: Chill and Serve

Let the salad chill in the fridge for at least 15 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld. Garnish with extra cheese, cilantro, and a dusting of chili powder if you like it spicy.

Serving and Storing Mexican Street Corn Salad

This salad serves about 4 to 6 people as a side dish, making it ideal for small gatherings, potlucks, or weekday dinners. It’s best served chilled or at room temperature. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before serving again.

What to Serve With Mexican Street Corn Salad?

Tacos

This salad pairs beautifully with carne asada, chicken, or fish tacos.

Grilled Meats

Serve it alongside grilled steak, barbecue chicken, or pork chops for a summer feast.

Quesadillas

A great match with cheesy quesadillas, especially with black beans or mushrooms.

Tortilla Chips

Use it as a chunky dip or scoop it onto chips for a quick snack.

Burrito Bowls

Add it on top of rice bowls with beans, guac, and your favorite protein.

Burgers

Swap out the usual slaw or salad with this flavorful option on your plate.

Fried Plantains

For a sweet-savory combo, serve it with fried plantains on the side.

BBQ Ribs

The creamy and tangy profile of the salad cuts through the richness of ribs.

Want More Salad Ideas with a Twist?

If you love this Mexican Street Corn Salad, you’ll definitely want to try these creative dishes too:

• Mom’s Signature Macaroni Salad
• Creamy Corn Dip
• Zesty Taco Pasta Salad
• Old Fashioned Pea Salad
• Cajun Potato Soup

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest side dish board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you char the corn or keep it simple? Add extra spice? I’d love to hear how you made it your own.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting salads and summer dishes on Zoe Recipes on Pinterest and discover your new go-to for feeling great!

Conclusion

Mexican Street Corn Salad is the side dish you didn’t know you needed. Bursting with flavor, quick to make, and incredibly versatile, it’s a standout at any meal. Whether you’re grilling outdoors or tossing together a weekday dinner, this salad brings a pop of sunshine to the table.

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