Mexican Corn Salad
Introduction
Looking for a vibrant and flavorful side dish? Mexican Corn Salad is the perfect blend of sweet, creamy, and tangy flavors, featuring fresh ingredients and a touch of spice. This recipe offers an easy and refreshing way to elevate your mealtime experience or impress a crowd at a gathering. Packed with color and zest, it’s a delightful dish inspired by Elote, the classic Mexican street corn.
Detailed Ingredients with Measures
Fresh Corn
Four cups of fresh corn kernels, either grilled or cooked
Red Bell Pepper
One diced red bell pepper for a crisp, sweet crunch
Cilantro
A quarter cup of freshly chopped cilantro
Green Onions
Two sliced green onions for added sharpness and flavor
Cheese
Half a cup of crumbled cotija cheese for a rich, salty touch
Mayonnaise
A quarter cup of mayonnaise for the creamy base
Sour Cream
A quarter cup of sour cream to enhance the creaminess
Lime Juice
Two tablespoons of freshly squeezed lime juice for a tangy kick
Chili Powder
Half a teaspoon of chili powder for subtle heat
Salt and Pepper
Salt and pepper to taste for seasoning
Prep Time
This recipe requires only 15 minutes of easy preparation. The fresh ingredients come together quickly, making it an effortless addition to your mealtime.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook time for this recipe is approximately 10 minutes. Combined with the preparation time, the total time is just 25 minutes. This recipe serves up to six people, making it perfect for family meals or small gatherings.
With its delightful flavors and simple process, this dish is a must-try for anyone craving something unique and delicious.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Corn
Remove the husks and silk from the fresh corn. Using a sharp knife, cut the kernels off the cob. Rotate the cob as you slice down to ensure all the kernels are removed.
Step 2: Cook the Corn
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the skillet is hot, add a thin layer of vegetable oil. Place the corn kernels in the skillet and cook them, stirring occasionally, until they are charred in some spots. This process should take around 5-7 minutes.
Step 3: Build the Salad Base
Transfer the cooked and charred corn to a large mixing bowl. Let the corn cool slightly while you prepare the rest of the ingredients.
Step 4: Prepare the Additional Ingredients
Finely chop the cilantro and set it aside. Dice the red onion into small pieces. Crumble the cotija cheese, ensuring there are no large clumps, and zest and juice the lime.
Step 5: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, lime juice, lime zest, chili powder, and salt until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.
Step 6: Toss the Salad
Pour the dressing over the corn in the mixing bowl. Stir to evenly coat the corn with the dressing. Add the chopped cilantro, diced red onion, and crumbled cotija cheese. Mix gently to combine.
Step 7: Adjust Seasoning
Taste the salad. Add additional lime juice, chili powder, or salt if necessary, to suit your preferences.
Step 8: Serve
Transfer the salad to a serving dish or individual plates. Optionally, garnish with extra cilantro, a sprinkle of chili powder, or additional cotija cheese before serving.
Notes
Note 1: Grilling Option
If you prefer, you can grill the corn on the cob and then remove the kernels after grilling for an authentic smoky flavor.
Note 2: Cheese Substitution
If cotija cheese is not available, feta cheese is a good alternative that has a similar texture and flavor.
Note 3: Spice Level
Adjust the amount of chili powder to control the spice level. Start with less, and increase gradually to your desired taste.
Note 4: Storing
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir before serving as the dressing may settle at the bottom.
Note 5: Adding Protein
For a heartier dish, consider adding grilled shrimp, chicken, or black beans to the salad.
Note 6: Freshness Tip
Use fresh lime juice instead of bottled for better flavor, and ensure to use fresh corn for the best taste and texture in the salad.
Cook Techniques
Grilling the Corn
Grill your corn on the cob for a smoky and charred flavor before cutting it off the cob. This enhances the overall taste of the salad.
Cutting Corn Off the Cob
Use a sharp knife and place the cob upright in a deep bowl to catch the kernels as you slice downward. This keeps the kernels contained and minimizes mess.
Sauteing Corn
If grilled corn is unavailable, sauté fresh or frozen corn in a skillet with a bit of olive oil until slightly golden to mimic a roasted flavor.
Mixing the Dressing
Whisk together the dressing ingredients in a bowl beforehand to ensure even distribution of flavors in the salad.
Balancing the Flavors
Adjust the seasonings after mixing the salad by adding more lime juice, salt, or chili powder to suit your taste preferences.
FAQ
Can I use frozen corn or canned corn instead of fresh corn?
Yes, you can use frozen or canned corn in place of fresh corn. If using frozen corn, thaw and sauté it in a skillet to enhance its flavor. For canned corn, drain thoroughly before using.
How do I store leftover Mexican corn salad?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir the salad before serving to redistribute the dressing.
What can I use instead of cotija cheese?
If you can’t find cotija cheese, you can substitute it with feta cheese or Parmesan for a similar salty and tangy flavor.
Can this salad be made ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this salad ahead of time. Combine all the ingredients except for any fresh herbs and cheese; then, add them just before serving to maintain freshness.
How do I make this salad spicier?
To make the salad spicier, add more chili powder or diced jalapeños. You can also drizzle it with your favorite hot sauce for an extra kick.
Conclusion
Mexican Corn Salad is a refreshing and vibrant dish, perfect for gatherings, barbecues, or as a side dish for weeknight meals. Bursting with flavor from creamy, tangy, and spicy elements, it’s a crowd-pleasing addition to any table. This dish exemplifies the versatility of corn, turning it into a star ingredient that pairs well with a variety of main courses or dishes.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Classic Guacamole
Pair the Mexican Corn Salad with some creamy guacamole for an unforgettable appetizer spread.
Grilled Chicken Tacos
Serve this salad alongside grilled chicken tacos for a vibrant and delicious Mexican-inspired meal.
Cheesy Quesadillas
Combine this side dish with gooey cheese quesadillas for a simple yet flavorful dinner option.
Beef Enchiladas
The bright flavors of the corn salad offer the perfect contrast to hearty beef enchiladas.
Fish Tacos
Complement the texture and tang of fish tacos with a generous helping of Mexican Corn Salad on the side.
Chili Lime Shrimp
Amp up the flavor by enjoying this fresh salad with chili lime shrimp for a zesty combination.
Carnitas
Add the corn salad to a plate of crispy pork carnitas for an unbeatable pairing of flavors.
