If you love bold flavors and fresh ingredients, this Savory Mexican Street Corn Salad is for you! Packed with sweet corn, juicy tomatoes, and a creamy dressing, it’s simple to make and perfect for any gathering. I’ll show you how to grill the corn, mix in delicious toppings, and create a dish that’s not just easy but absolutely delicious. Let’s dive into this vibrant recipe that will wow your taste buds!
Ingredients
List of Required Ingredients
- Corn (4 ears, husked)
- Cherry tomatoes (1 cup, halved)
- Red onion (1/2 cup, finely diced)
- Queso fresco (1/2 cup, crumbled)
- Fresh cilantro (1/4 cup, chopped)
- Avocado (1, diced)
- Mayonnaise (1/4 cup)
- Lime juice (2 tablespoons)
- Chili powder (1 teaspoon)
- Salt and pepper to taste
To make this salad pop, you need fresh and simple ingredients. The corn adds sweetness, while the tomatoes bring a juicy burst. Red onion gives a nice crunch, and queso fresco adds creaminess. Cilantro brings brightness, and avocado adds smoothness. The dressing is where the magic happens!
Optional Ingredients for Added Flavor
- Paprika (for a smoky touch)
- Cumin (for warmth)
- Feta cheese (for tanginess)
- Cotija cheese (for a crumbly texture)
These extras can kick up the flavor. Try adding spices like paprika or cumin for depth. Feta or cotija can give that extra zing to every bite!
Ingredient Substitutions
- Canned or frozen corn (if fresh corn is not available)
- Plant-based mayonnaise (for a dairy-free option)
You can easily swap out fresh corn for canned or frozen. If you want a dairy-free salad, use a plant-based mayo. Both options keep the taste great!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation of Ingredients
First, you need to preheat your grill. Set it to medium-high heat. This will give your corn a nice char. While the grill heats up, husk four ears of corn and set them aside. Next, gather your other veggies. Dice half a cup of red onion finely. Halve one cup of cherry tomatoes. Chop a quarter cup of fresh cilantro. Finally, dice one avocado.
Cooking Procedure
Now, it’s time to grill the corn. Place the corn directly on the grill. Grill it for about 10 to 15 minutes. Remember to turn the corn every few minutes. You want it to be slightly charred. Once it’s done, remove it from the grill and let it cool. After the corn cools, take a sharp knife. Cut the kernels off the cob into a large mixing bowl.
Mixing and Serving
In the mixing bowl, add the diced tomatoes, red onion, crumbled queso fresco, chopped cilantro, and diced avocado. In a separate small bowl, whisk together a quarter cup of mayonnaise, two tablespoons of lime juice, one teaspoon of chili powder, and salt and pepper to taste. Pour this dressing over the corn mixture. Gently toss everything until it’s evenly coated. It’s a good idea to taste it and adjust the seasoning if you need to.
Now, chill the salad in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This will let all the flavors blend together. When you’re ready to serve, enjoy your delicious Mexican street corn salad!
Tips & Tricks
Grilling the Corn Perfectly
To get the best corn, you’ll want to grill it at medium-high heat. This helps the corn cook evenly and get those nice char marks. Turn the corn every few minutes. This keeps it from burning and ensures all sides get that tasty grilled flavor. Aim for about 10-15 minutes total. When it’s ready, the kernels should be tender and slightly charred.
Flavor Enhancements
Add more flavor to your salad by mixing in toppings like diced jalapeños or black beans. These give it a nice kick. You can also try spices like paprika or cumin for extra depth. To balance the flavors, taste the salad after mixing. Adjust with more lime juice or salt if needed. This makes sure every bite is packed with flavor.
Presentation Tips
For serving, choose a bright, decorative bowl. This adds a pop of color to your table. Garnish the top with extra crumbled queso fresco and a sprig of cilantro for a fresh look. This not only makes it pretty but also adds more flavor. A well-presented dish invites everyone to dig in!
Variations
Different Ingredient Combinations
You can make this salad your own by mixing in different flavors. For a Southwest twist, add chopped jalapeños and black beans. These ingredients bring heat and heartiness. The spicy jalapeños pair well with the sweet corn. Black beans add protein and fiber, making it more filling and nutritious.
Try a Mediterranean version for a fresh take. Use diced cucumbers, sliced olives, and crumbled feta cheese. The cucumbers add crunch, while olives provide a briny taste. Feta cheese gives a salty kick that pairs well with the corn’s sweetness. This twist makes the salad light and refreshing.
Dietary Adjustments
Vegan eaters can still enjoy this salad by swapping regular mayonnaise for plant-based mayonnaise. It keeps the creamy texture without using eggs. Look for brands without added sugars or preservatives for the best flavor.
If gluten is a concern, this salad is naturally gluten-free. All the ingredients are safe for those avoiding gluten. Make sure to check labels on any pre-packaged items to ensure they are gluten-free.
Serving Styles
This salad shines as an appetizer or side dish. Serve it at summer barbecues or potlucks for a crowd-pleaser. You can also place it in a large bowl for sharing.
For gatherings, consider serving it in small cups. This way, guests can grab their own portion easily. Garnish with extra queso fresco and cilantro on top for a nice touch.
Storage Info
Short-term Storage
To store leftovers, place the salad in an airtight container. Make sure to cover it well. This keeps the salad fresh in the fridge for a few days. Keep the salad away from strong odors, as it can absorb them. For best taste, eat your leftovers within three days.
Long-term Storage Tips
You can freeze the corn salad components. However, some parts do not freeze well. Corn and diced veggies freeze nicely. To freeze, spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. For reheating, thaw in the fridge overnight. After thawing, eat within a day or two for freshness.
Shelf Life
The salad stays fresh in the fridge for about three days. If you notice a change in color or smell, it’s time to toss it. Avoid eating if you see any mold. Always trust your senses when checking for spoilage.
FAQs
How to make Ultimate Mexican Street Corn Salad from scratch?
To make this salad, start by grilling corn. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Cook the corn for about 10-15 minutes, turning it until it gets charred. Let the corn cool before cutting the kernels off the cob into a bowl. Add cherry tomatoes, diced red onion, crumbled queso fresco, chopped cilantro, and diced avocado. In another bowl, mix mayonnaise, lime juice, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Pour the dressing over the corn mix and toss gently. Chill for 30 minutes before serving.
Can I make Mexican street corn salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the salad a few hours ahead. Just follow the recipe until you mix in the dressing. Store the salad in the fridge. This lets the flavors blend well. For best taste, add the avocado just before serving to keep it fresh.
What can I serve with Mexican street corn salad?
This salad pairs nicely with grilled chicken or fish. It also goes well with tacos or burritos. You can serve it as a side dish at BBQs or picnics. You might also enjoy it with tortilla chips for a fun crunch.
Is Mexican street corn salad gluten-free?
Yes, this salad is gluten-free. All the ingredients used, like corn, tomatoes, and avocado, do not contain gluten. Be sure to check your mayonnaise for any gluten traces if you are sensitive.
Here’s how to make this tasty salad:
Ingredients:
- 4 ears of corn, husked
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1/2 cup crumbled queso fresco
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Steps:
1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. Grill the corn for 10-15 minutes until charred.
3. Let the corn cool, then cut the kernels off.
4. In a bowl, mix corn, tomatoes, onion, queso, cilantro, and avocado.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk mayonnaise, lime juice, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
6. Pour the dressing over the corn mix and toss gently.
7. Chill in the fridge for 30 minutes before serving.
Enjoy your flavorful Ultimate Mexican Street Corn Salad!
In this article, we explored how to create the Ultimate Mexican Street Corn Salad. We discussed key ingredients, preparation steps, and tips for grilling corn perfectly. You learned how to enhance flavors with spices and cheese. I shared ideas for dietary variations and serving styles, plus storage tips to keep leftovers fresh.
This salad is fun and easy to make. It’s perfect for gatherings or a tasty side. Enjoy the vibrant flavors and impress your guests!
