Grilled Mexican Street Corn Salad

Introduction

Are you looking for a fresh, flavorful side dish to spice up your next barbecue or family dinner? This grilled Mexican street corn salad could be the perfect addition to your table. Bursting with all the delicious flavors of classic elote, this easy-to-make recipe combines grilled sweet corn, vibrant ingredients, and a creamy, tangy dressing. A simple yet crowd-pleasing dish, it’s a must-try recipe that can be enjoyed year-round.

Detailed Ingredients with Measures

Corn on the cob

6 large cobs, husks removed and cleaned

Vegetable oil

2 tablespoons for grilling

Mayonnaise

1/4 cup

Sour cream

1/4 cup

Garlic powder

1 teaspoon

Chili powder

1 teaspoon

Cotija cheese

1/4 cup, crumbled

Cilantro

2 tablespoons, chopped

Fresh lime juice

2 tablespoons

Salt

To taste

Black pepper

To taste

Prep Time

This recipe involves minimal prep work, just cleaning the corn and having the ingredients ready. Set aside 10 minutes for preparation.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook Time

15 minutes

Total Time

25 minutes

Yield

Serves 4 to 6 people

How to Make Grilled Mexican Street Corn Salad

Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. Lightly brush each corn cob with vegetable oil. Grill the corn directly on the grates, turning occasionally, until the kernels are lightly charred, which usually takes about 8 to 10 minutes. Once done, remove the corn from the grill and allow it to cool slightly.

Using a sharp knife, slice the kernels off the cob and transfer them to a large mixing bowl. In a separate small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, garlic powder, chili powder, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Pour this dressing over the grilled corn.

Add cotija cheese and fresh cilantro to the mixture, then toss everything together until evenly combined. Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and lime juice if desired.

Conclusion

This grilled Mexican street corn salad is an easy-to-make, flavorful dish that pairs well with grilled meats, tacos, or even on its own as a fresh and zesty side. Perfect for gatherings, it’s a creative way to incorporate summertime flavors into any meal. Enjoy the taste of Mexican street food from the comfort of your kitchen!
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Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the corn

Remove the husks and silk from the corn on the cob, and rinse each ear clean.

Step 2: Grill the corn

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the corn directly on the grill grates and cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning every few minutes until the kernels have charred marks on all sides.

Step 3: Cut the corn off the cob

Once the corn has cooled enough to handle, use a sharp knife to cut the kernels off the cob. Place the kernels into a large mixing bowl.

Step 4: Add vegetables and seasonings

Mix in the diced red onion, chopped cilantro, and diced jalapeños to the bowl with the corn. Stir everything together evenly.

Step 5: Prepare the dressing

In a separate small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, lime juice, chili powder, smoked paprika, and garlic powder until well combined and smooth.

Step 6: Combine dressing with corn mixture

Pour the dressing over the corn mixture and stir thoroughly to ensure that all the ingredients are evenly coated. Taste the salad and adjust the seasonings as needed.

Step 7: Add the cheese

Crumble queso fresco or cotija cheese on top of the salad and gently fold it into the mixture.

Step 8: Serve

Transfer the salad to a serving dish, garnish with extra cilantro, cheese, or a sprinkle of chili powder if desired, and serve immediately. This salad can also be refrigerated and served chilled.

Notes

Note 1: Substitution for cheese

If queso fresco or cotija cheese is not available, you can substitute it with feta cheese for a similar flavor and texture.

Note 2: Adjust spice level

If you prefer a milder salad, reduce the amount of jalapeños or omit them entirely. You can also adjust the chili powder to suit your spice tolerance.

Note 3: Make it vegan

To make this dish vegan, substitute the mayonnaise with vegan mayo and omit the cheese or use a vegan cheese alternative.

Note 4: Storage

Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Note that the flavors may intensify as it sits.

Note 5: Serving suggestion

This salad is a versatile side dish and pairs well with grilled meats, tacos, or tortilla chips for a delicious Mexican-inspired meal.
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Cook Techniques

Prep Your Corn Before Grilling

Make sure to clean your corn by removing all husks and silk. This ensures a clean and even grilling process.

Grill the Corn to Perfection

Grill the corn on high heat, rotating frequently to achieve even char marks on all sides. This step adds a smoky flavor essential for the recipe.

Cutting the Corn Off the Cob

Use a sharp knife and hold the corn vertically. Glide the knife downward to remove the kernels cleanly and efficiently.

Mixing the Ingredients

Once the corn is charred and cut, mix it with fresh ingredients like lime juice, cotija cheese, and seasonings to bring out vibrant flavors.

Serving the Dish

Serve the salad immediately or keep it lightly chilled. This ensures maximum freshness and taste.

FAQ

Can I use frozen or canned corn for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen or canned corn if fresh corn is unavailable, but grilling fresh corn will provide the best flavor.

What can I use as a substitute for cotija cheese?

If cotija cheese isn’t available, you can substitute it with feta cheese or grated parmesan.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this salad a few hours ahead of serving. However, it’s best served fresh as the flavors are more vibrant.

Is there a way to make this salad spicier?

To make it spicier, add chopped jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper.

How should I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Mix well before serving again.

Conclusion

The Grilled Mexican Street Corn Salad is a vibrant, flavorful side dish that brings together the classic elements of street corn with a fresh twist. Its combination of smoky grilled corn, creamy dressing, and zesty toppings makes it perfect for summer barbecues, family dinners, or as a festive accompaniment to your favorite Mexican-inspired recipes. Easy to prepare and bursting with texture and flavor, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.

More Recipes Suggestions and Combination

Grilled Chicken Taco Bowls

Pair this salad with grilled chicken taco bowls for a wholesome and satisfying meal that’s packed with Mexican flavors.

Black Bean and Avocado Salsa

Serve alongside a refreshing black bean and avocado salsa for an appetizer spread or light snack.

Fish Tacos with Cilantro Lime Sauce

Add this salad to the side of fish tacos dressed with a zesty cilantro lime sauce for a coastal-inspired menu.

Mexican Rice Bowls

Combine this salad with Mexican rice bowls to create a hearty and delicious mix of flavors and textures.

Chipotle Grilled Shrimp Skewers

Complement the smoky notes of chipotle grilled shrimp skewers with this savory and tangy salad for a balanced pairing.

Vegetarian Burritos

Include this corn salad as a perfect side to vegetarian burritos, enhancing the meal with its bold and fresh flavors.