Mexican Street Corn Salad Recipe and Serving Ideas

Feeling a bit creative for a recent taco-night, I made my first batch of Mexican street corn as a taco topper. It was a delicious success. I’ve since re-created it a couple times, even eating it as just a side salad. It’s so tasty, and makes a perfect take-along side to bring to any fiesta or BBQ.

The classic Mexican street corn, also known as elote, features tender corn on the cob slathered with a creamy, tangy sauce and topped spices and cheese. Mexican street corn salad brings a twist to the classic dish. Here’s how I’ve been making it, and some ways to enjoy it.

Mexican Street Corn Salad Recipe

Ingredients:

• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels (I used frozen)
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1/2 large red onion, diced
• 3-4 sprigs fresh cilantro, finely chopped
• 2/3 cup crumbled cotija cheese (can be substituted with feta or queso fresco)
• Optional garnish: additional chopped cilantro, lime wedges, and extra cotija cheese

For the dressing:

• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 3 tablespoons sour cream or Greek yogurt
• Juice from 2 fresh limes
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/4 teaspoon sea salt

Instructions:

1. Over the stove, heat olive oil in a large pan or skillet. Once hot, add the corn kernels and allow to cook for approximately 10 minutes on med/high heat until slightly charred. Remove from pan and aside to cool.
2. In a small mixing bowl, combine the dressing ingredients: mayonnaise, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), lime juice, paprika, cumin powder, chili powder, and salt. Whisk well to create a smooth dressing.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled corn kernels, diced red bell pepper, diced red onion, and chopped cilantro.
4. Pour dressing over the salad and mix all together well.
5. Sprinkle the crumbled cotija cheese over the corn salad and mix lightly.
6. Taste and adjust the seasonings as desired.
7. Let the salad sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to marinate.
8. If desired, garnish with additional chopped cilantro, a squeeze of fresh lime juice, and a sprinkle of cotija cheese.

Ways to Enjoy Mexican Street Corn Salad

1. As a side dish. Mexican street corn makes for a vibrant side dish. It pairs perfectly with grilled meats, tacos, quesadillas, or any Mexican-inspired meal.
2. Taco filling or topping. Add a spoonful or two of Mexican street corn salad into or over top of a taco. The sweetness of the corn, the creamy dressing, and the zesty cheese will elevate your taco game. [Looking for more taco-night inspiration? Check my posts on how I make slow-cooker shredded chicken for tacos and pickled red onion as a taco topping.]
3. As a salsa for tortilla chips. Another option to go along with tomato salsa and guacamole. It makes a great appetizer or snack.

Whether used as a side dish, a topping, a taco filling, or a dip, this Mexican street corn salad is vibrant, delicious and refreshing. I hope you enjoy!