Mexican Street Corn Salad

Name: Mexican Street Corn Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 6 servings
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 4 ears of corn (husked); 1 cup cotija cheese (crumbled); 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 1/2 cup sour cream; 2 tbsp lime juice (freshly squeezed); 1 tsp chili powder; 1/4 cup cilantro (chopped); 1 jalapeño (seeded and minced); 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper

25 min 6 servings Easy

All Recipes

A vibrant, scoopable salad capturing all the delicious flavours of elote, perfect for making ahead and enjoying at any gathering.

Prep

15 min

Cook

10 min

Total

25 min

Servings

Difficulty

Easy

Mexican street corn, or elote, is a beloved street food known for its smoky and tangy flavours. This salad version captures all those delightful tastes in a convenient, scoopable form. It's perfect for potlucks, barbecues, or any gathering where you want to impress with minimal effort. The combination of sweet corn, creamy dressing, and zesty lime makes this dish irresistible. By grilling the corn, you add a depth of flavour that enhances the overall taste. This recipe is also great for making ahead, ensuring your gatherings are stress-free and delicious.

Instructions

Preheat grill

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, about 400°F (204°C).

Pro tip: If you don't have a grill, you can use a cast-iron skillet on high heat.

Grill corn

Place husked corn directly on the grill. Cook, turning occasionally, until charred and tender, about 10 minutes.

Pro tip: Look for a nice char on all sides for the best flavour.

Cool and cut corn

Remove the corn from the grill and let it cool slightly. Stand the cob upright in a large bowl and carefully slice off the kernels.

Prepare dressing

In a small bowl, mix together mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, salt, and black pepper until smooth.

Pro tip: Adjust lime and chili powder to taste.

Combine ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the grilled corn, cotija cheese, cilantro, and jalapeño. Pour the dressing over and mix well.

Pro tip: Mix gently to avoid mashing the corn.

Serve

Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with extra cilantro and a sprinkle of chili powder if desired.

Pro tip: Serve immediately or keep the components separate until ready to serve.

💡

Tips & Tricks

Use fresh corn for the best flavour, but canned or frozen works in a pinch.
Grill the corn for a smoky, charred taste.
Mix the salad just before serving to keep it fresh and vibrant.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Mexican street corn salad?

Mexican street corn salad is a dish inspired by elote, featuring grilled corn, creamy dressing, lime, and spices.

How do you keep Mexican street corn salad from going watery?

Store the dressing and salad components separately, then mix just before serving to keep it fresh and crisp.

Can I use canned or frozen corn?

Yes, you can use canned or frozen corn if fresh is unavailable. Just ensure to drain or thaw completely.

How long does Mexican street corn salad last?

When stored separately, the components can last up to 2 days in the refrigerator.

What's the best way to grill corn?

Grill corn over medium-high heat, turning occasionally until charred and tender, about 10 minutes.

Can I make Mexican street corn salad ahead of time?

Yes, keep components separate and combine just before serving for optimal freshness.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Mexican Street Corn Salad with grilled meats or as part of a vibrant spread of Mexican dishes. It pairs beautifully with tacos, enchiladas, or a simple grilled chicken. To store, keep the dressing and salad components separate in airtight containers for up to 2 days. Mix just before serving to maintain freshness and prevent the salad from becoming watery.

Nutrition per serving

230

Calories

Protein

15g

Fat

A refreshing summer salad featuring raw corn kernels, juicy tomatoes, red onion, and basil tossed in a zesty vinaigrette.

Easy15 min

See the recipe

Kitchen & BBQ gear

What we use for recipes like this

See the whole store

BBQ & Outdoor Cooking · Portable Grills

Coleman Tabletop 2-in-1 Camping Grill/Stove, 2-Burner Propane Grill & Stove with Adjustable Burners & 20,000 BTUs of Power, Great for Camping, Tailgating, Grilling

$179.37

Kitchen Appliances · Waffle Makers

Oster Belgian Waffle Maker, 8", Stainless Steel

$34.98

Pit Boss Grills

Mahogany 260 Portable

$699.99

Affiliate links. Prices come from Amazon and are refreshed at least every 24 hours.