Name: Easy Mexican Street Corn Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 18 min
Ingredients: 4 ears corn (kernels sliced on cobs, about 4 cups); 1 teaspoon olive oil; 3 tablespoons Greek yogurt (plain); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1 jalapeño jalapeño (minced, seeds removed (optional)); 1/2 lime lime (juiced); 2 teaspoons cumin; 1/2 teaspoon chili powder; 1/3 cup cojita cheese (crumbled); 1 small red onion (finely chopped); 1/4 cup scallions (chopped); 2 tablespoons cilantro (fresh, chopped (optional))

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Growing up, summer meant one thing: vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients. The first bite of Easy Mexican Street Corn Salad takes me back to those warm evenings spent with family, gathered around the grill and sharing stories. The air would be filled with laughter and the smoky scent of corn roasting, a staple at our barbecues. This salad, with its creamy dressing and zesty kick, perfectly captures that essence. Every bite bursts with the taste of summer, making it an unforgettable dish that can brighten any meal.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
18 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
8 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
180 kcal

Protein:
6 g

Diet:
Keto, Paleo, Whole30

Fat:
7 g

Tools Used:
Chef’s Knife, Wooden Spoon, Oven

Why This Easy Mexican Street Corn Salad Stands Out

A Burst of Flavor

The shining star of Easy Mexican Street Corn Salad is undoubtedly the sweet and succulent corn. Grilled to perfection, it develops a delightful char that enhances its natural sweetness. Paired with creamy Greek yogurt and a splash of lime, this salad delivers a refreshing balance that is hard to resist.

Versatile and Customizable

This salad is incredibly versatile. You can enjoy it as a side dish at a barbecue or as a light lunch option. Add more veggies or even some protein to create a heartier meal. The best part is, it’s easy to adapt to your taste preferences!

Perfect for Sharing

Whether you’re hosting a party or simply enjoying a weeknight dinner, Easy Mexican Street Corn Salad is perfect for sharing. It’s a crowd-pleaser that never fails to impress; trust me, you’ll want to make extra for seconds!

Health Benefits

Not only is this dish delicious, but it’s also packed with nutrients. Corn is a great source of fiber, which is essential for digestion. The addition of fresh herbs and Greek yogurt provides vitamins and probiotics, making this salad as healthy as it is tasty.

Easy to Prepare

With just a handful of ingredients and minimal preparation, Easy Mexican Street Corn Salad comes together quickly. It’s perfect for those busy days when you need something flavorful without the fuss. Just grill the corn, mix the dressing, and toss everything together!

Celebrate Every Bite

Every bite of this salad is a celebration of flavors that reflect the joy of summer. It’s more than just a dish; it’s an experience that brings people together. So, gather your friends and family and enjoy the flavors of the season with this delightful recipe!

Ingredients Required for Easy Mexican Street Corn Salad

This Easy Mexican Street Corn Salad features a delightful blend of fresh ingredients that come together in perfect harmony. The key players are the sweet corn and the tangy Greek yogurt, each contributing to a flavor profile that feels like a sunny day. With a few spices and herbs, this dish is simple yet bursting with flavor.

4 ears of corn (kernels sliced on cobs, about 4 cups): The base of the salad, providing sweetness and crunch.
1 teaspoon olive oil: Helps to grill the corn and adds richness.
3 tablespoons Greek yogurt (plain): Adds creaminess and tang to the dressing.
2 garlic cloves (minced): Infuses the dish with aromatic flavor.
1 jalapeño (minced, seeds removed, optional): Adds a kick of heat that you can adjust to your taste.
1/2 lime (juiced): Brightens the flavors and balances the richness.
2 teaspoons cumin: Adds a warm, earthy flavor.
1/2 teaspoon chili powder: Brings a bit more warmth and depth.
1/3 cup cojita cheese (crumbled): A crumbly cheese that adds a salty touch.
1 red onion (small, finely chopped): Provides a sharp crunch and vibrant color.
1/4 cup scallions (chopped): Adds freshness and a mild onion flavor.
2 tablespoons cilantro (fresh, chopped, optional): Enhances the dish with a burst of herbal flavor.

Cooking Method for Easy Mexican Street Corn Salad

Preparing Easy Mexican Street Corn Salad is a breeze, and it only takes a few simple steps! Follow along as I guide you through the process from grilling the corn to mixing the perfect dressing. You’ll see how easy it is to bring this vibrant dish to your table.

Preheat your broiler and place the corn kernels in a baking dish or on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, ensuring each kernel is coated. This step is crucial for achieving a delightful char that enhances the corn’s sweetness.
Broil the corn, stirring once halfway through, for about 8 to 10 minutes. You’re looking for a light char on the corn, which adds depth and flavor. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning!
Once the corn is cooked, remove it from the oven and set aside to cool slightly. This cooling step is essential for handling the corn later without burning your fingers.
In a mixing bowl, combine Greek yogurt, garlic, jalapeño, lime juice, cumin, and chili powder. This creamy dressing will be the heart of your salad, so mix well until all the ingredients are fully incorporated.
In a separate bowl, combine the charred corn, cojita cheese, and red onion. Gently stir to combine the ingredients. The warmth of the corn will slightly soften the cheese, making it even more delicious.
Add the prepared dressing to the corn mixture and toss gently. This is where the magic happens! Ensure that every kernel is coated with the creamy dressing.
Finally, top the salad with scallions and cilantro, if using. These fresh herbs not only enhance the flavor but also add a pop of color to your dish.
Serve immediately and enjoy this refreshing Easy Mexican Street Corn Salad as a side dish or a light meal!

Things Worth Knowing

Grilling Corn: For an even smokier flavor, consider grilling the corn on the cob instead of broiling. Just cook it over medium heat until charred and cooked through.
Making Ahead: You can prepare the dressing and grill the corn ahead of time. Combine them just before serving to keep the salad fresh and vibrant.
Fresh Ingredients: Always use the freshest ingredients you can find. Fresh herbs and ripe corn will elevate the flavor of your salad significantly.
Adjusting Spice Level: If you enjoy heat, leave the seeds in the jalapeño or add more chili powder to your dressing for an extra kick.

Making Adjustments

Every cook has their style, and the beauty of the Easy Mexican Street Corn Salad lies in its flexibility. Here are some tips for customizing this dish to your liking.

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. The flavors will continue to meld!
Freezing: It’s not recommended to freeze the salad due to the fresh ingredients, but you can freeze the corn before cooking if desired.
Pairing: This salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal.
Vegetarian Option: Feel free to leave out the cheese for a vegan alternative, or substitute with a plant-based cheese.
Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs; parsley or dill would also work wonderfully in this salad for a unique twist.

Serving Options for Easy Mexican Street Corn Salad

Serving the Easy Mexican Street Corn Salad is a delightful opportunity to showcase its freshness and flavors. Here are some great serving ideas:

As a Side Dish: Serve this salad alongside grilled meats for a fantastic summer barbecue. It complements the smoky flavors of grilled chicken or beef beautifully.
Lunch Bowl: Turn it into a lunch bowl by adding cooked quinoa or rice to the salad. It makes for a satisfying and nutritious meal.
Picnic Delight: Pack it for picnics or potlucks. Its vibrant colors and refreshing taste are sure to please a crowd.
Seasonal Serving: Perfect for summer gatherings, but it can also bring a taste of summer to cold winter days when you need a pick-me-up.
Garnish Ideas: Top with extra cilantro or a sprinkle of cojita cheese before serving for added flair and flavor.

FAQ

You can serve Easy Mexican Street Corn Salad alongside grilled chicken, fish, or even tacos for a complete meal. Its creamy texture and sweet corn complement smoky flavors beautifully. It’s also great on its own as a light lunch or a refreshing snack.

Absolutely! You can prepare the dressing and grill the corn in advance. Just keep them separate and combine them right before serving to ensure everything stays fresh and flavorful. This makes it an excellent option for potlucks or picnics!

The spiciness of Easy Mexican Street Corn Salad can be adjusted based on your preference. The jalapeño can be omitted for a milder flavor, or you can leave the seeds in for a bit more heat. So, it’s customizable to suit your taste!

Fresh sweet corn is ideal for Easy Mexican Street Corn Salad. You can use corn on the cob and grill it for the best flavor. Canned or frozen corn can be used in a pinch, but the flavor won’t be as vibrant as fresh corn.

Conclusion

The Easy Mexican Street Corn Salad is a celebration of summer flavors, combining sweet corn, creamy dressing, and a hint of spice. It’s a versatile dish that’s easy to make and sure to impress. I encourage you to try this recipe at your next gathering or even for a summer lunch. You’ll love how the flavors come together to create a dish that’s not just food, but a joyful experience!