Introduction
Welcome to a burst of flavor that’s perfect for any gathering or a delightful summer meal! This Mexican Street Corn Salad is a vibrant dish that brings the taste of street food straight to your kitchen. Imagine the sweet crunch of grilled corn, the zest of lime, and the creaminess of cotija cheese all mingling together in a bowl. It’s refreshing, colorful, and utterly delicious – not to mention easy to whip up in no time!
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh corn kernels (about 6 ears of corn)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup red onion, diced
- 1/2 cup crumbled cotija cheese
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon sour cream
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Start by grilling or boiling the corn until it’s tender. Once cooked, set it aside to cool. When it’s cool enough to handle, cut the kernels off the cob and place them in a large mixing bowl.
- Add the halved cherry tomatoes, diced red onion, and crumbled cotija cheese to the bowl with the corn. The colors will be so inviting!
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, salt, and pepper until everything is beautifully combined.
- Pour the creamy dressing over the corn mixture and gently toss to ensure every bite is coated in that rich, zesty goodness.
- Taste your salad and adjust the seasoning if needed. A pinch more salt or lime can elevate the flavors even more!
- Serve immediately for the freshest experience, or pop it in the fridge for about 30 minutes to let all those delightful flavors meld together. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh cilantro just before serving!
Notes or Tips
Feel free to customize your salad! Adding diced avocado or black beans can enhance the creaminess and add extra texture. If you’re looking for a kick, a dash of hot sauce or diced jalapeños will spice things up!
Cooking Techniques
Whether you grill or boil the corn, each method brings out a different sweetness in the kernels. Grilling adds a lovely smoky flavor, while boiling keeps them super sweet and fresh. Whichever you choose, make sure to let the corn cool properly to preserve that crunch!
FAQ
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! This salad tastes even better after the flavors have had a chance to come together in the fridge. Just be sure to add the cilantro just before serving to keep it fresh!
What can I substitute for cotija cheese?
If cotija isn’t available, feta cheese is a great alternative, offering a similar crumbly texture and salty flavor that complements the salad nicely.
Conclusion
This Mexican Street Corn Salad is not only a feast for the eyes but also a celebration of flavor that will leave your taste buds dancing. Perfect for picnics, barbecues, or as a side dish for your weeknight dinner, it’s quick to prepare and sure to impress. Grab those fresh ingredients and let’s create something truly delicious!