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Easy & Creamy Mexican Street Corn Salad (Elote Salad)

A close-up of a white bowl filled with vibrant street corn salad, topped with cotija cheese, red onion, and cilantro.

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Make this zesty, creamy Mexican Street Corn Salad, also known as Elote Salad. It is a flavorful side dish perfect for summer BBQs, picnics, or quick weeknight meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned, drained)
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup sour cream or Mexican crema
  • 1/2 cup Cotija cheese, crumbled (or feta cheese)
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 small jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional)

Instructions

  1. If using fresh or frozen corn, grill or char the corn kernels in a dry skillet over medium-high heat until lightly browned in spots. If using canned corn, skip this step. Place the corn in a large bowl.
  2. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper until smooth.
  3. Add the red onion, minced jalapeño (if using), and half of the crumbled Cotija cheese to the corn.
  4. Pour the dressing over the corn mixture. Toss gently until all ingredients are evenly coated.
  5. Stir in most of the chopped cilantro, reserving some for garnish.
  6. Taste the salad and adjust salt or lime juice as needed.
  7. Cover the bowl and chill the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
  8. Garnish with the remaining Cotija cheese and cilantro before serving. This salad is great with tortilla chips or as a side dish for your next meal planning session.

Notes

  • For a smoky flavor without grilling, add 1/4 teaspoon of liquid smoke to the dressing mixture.
  • If you are looking for alternatives to traditional meal delivery companies, this salad is a great, fresh option.
  • You can substitute feta cheese for Cotija if you cannot find it.
  • This recipe works well as a dip; serve it with sturdy tortilla chips.

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