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If you adore bold, zesty flavors paired with fresh, crunchy textures, then this Mexican Street Corn Salad Recipe is going to become your new favorite go-to dish. It takes the beloved flavors of classic Mexican street corn and transforms them into a vibrant, easy-to-eat salad packed with smoky charred corn, creamy tangy dressing, spicy jalapeño kick, and that irresistible crumbly cotija cheese that ties everything together beautifully. Whether you’re serving it at a sunny barbecue, a casual weeknight dinner, or a festive gathering, this salad brings all the sunshine and fiesta vibes in every bite.

Mexican Street Corn Salad Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients keep the Mexican Street Corn Salad Recipe simple yet spectacular, with each element playing a vital role in creating the perfect balance of creaminess, spicy heat, bright citrus, and smoky depth.

4 cups corn kernels: Use fresh, canned, or frozen for convenience and a naturally sweet crunch.
2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds richness and helps achieve that irresistible char on the corn.
1/4 cup mayonnaise: Provides creamy tanginess that binds the flavors together.
1/4 cup sour cream: Brings refreshing creaminess and a slight tang to balance the spice.
1/2 cup crumbled cotija cheese: This salty, crumbly cheese is the crowning glory and a must-have for authentic flavor.
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro: Brightens the dish with fresh, herbaceous notes.
1 jalapeño pepper: Seeded and diced for a controlled kick of heat that wakes up your palate.
1 clove garlic: Minced finely to add subtle depth and savoriness.
1 teaspoon chili powder: Infuses smoky warmth that complements the charred corn beautifully.
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds an extra layer of smoky complexity and vibrant color.
1 lime: Juiced for fresh citrus zing that brightens all the flavors.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to bring everything into perfect harmony.
Optional toppings: Extra crumbled cotija cheese, chopped cilantro, and lime wedges for garnish and flair.

How to Make Mexican Street Corn Salad Recipe

Step 1: Char the Corn

Start by heating a skillet over medium-high heat and adding your corn kernels. Stir occasionally and let them cook until you see those delightful little browned spots that signal they’re nicely charred and bursting with smoky sweetness—this takes about 5 to 7 minutes. This step is where the magic of flavor starts to develop, so don’t rush it!

Step 2: Mix the Dressing and Corn

Once your corn is charred, transfer it straight into a large mixing bowl. Add olive oil, mayonnaise, sour cream, crumbled cotija cheese, chopped cilantro, diced jalapeño, minced garlic, chili powder, smoked paprika, and freshly squeezed lime juice. Mix everything thoroughly to make sure every sweet, spicy, and creamy morsel mingles perfectly. This is where your Mexican Street Corn Salad Recipe truly comes together in a tasty harmony.

Step 3: Season to Perfection

Give your salad a taste and season it with salt and pepper. Seasoning is crucial—don’t be shy with it! Adjust until you find the perfect balance that makes your taste buds smile. Every bite should have that wonderful pop of flavor.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

Transfer your finished salad to a pretty serving bowl and top with extra crumbled cotija cheese, more chopped cilantro, and lime wedges if you like a little extra punch of freshness. This not only amps up the flavor but also makes it look so inviting—like a dish you’d find on any vibrant Mexican street corner.

Step 5: Enjoy Immediately

This salad is best served fresh, so dig in right away to savor all the fresh charred corn goodness mingling with the creamy and spicy sauce. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!

How to Serve Mexican Street Corn Salad Recipe

Garnishes

Simple garnishes like extra crumbled cotija cheese, freshly chopped cilantro, and lime wedges add an attractive finishing touch. They also invite guests to customize their salad by adding more brightness or cheese richness with every bite.

Side Dishes

This salad shines alongside grilled meats like steak or chicken, pairs wonderfully with tacos, or can be served as a vibrant side at any summer BBQ. Its creamy and zesty layers provide the perfect contrast to smoky grilled flavors or spicy dishes.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving this Mexican Street Corn Salad Recipe in individual cups for a fun party appetizer or spoon it over tostada shells for a crunchy, handheld treat. It also makes a colorful topping for baked potatoes or as a filling inside warm tortillas for a quick, satisfying meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can store leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually mellow and meld nicely after a few hours, making it even tastier the next day. Just give it a quick stir before serving.

Freezing

Freezing this Mexican Street Corn Salad Recipe is not recommended because the creamy components may separate and the texture can get soggy upon thawing.

Reheating

If you prefer your corn warm, you can gently reheat leftovers in a skillet over low heat just until warmed through. However, it’s equally delicious served chilled or at room temperature.

FAQs

Can I use frozen corn for this recipe?

Absolutely! Frozen corn works perfectly if fresh corn isn’t available. Just thaw it thoroughly and pat it dry before charring in the skillet for best results.

Is there a substitute for cotija cheese?

Yes, feta cheese is a great alternative that delivers a similar tangy and crumbly texture if cotija is hard to find.

How spicy is this salad?

The jalapeño gives a mild to moderate heat level which you can adjust by using less or removing the seeds entirely. The chili powder also adds warmth without overwhelming the dish.

Can I make this salad vegan?

To make a vegan version, substitute the mayonnaise and sour cream with plant-based alternatives, and replace cotija cheese with a vegan cheese or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.

What is the best way to serve this salad at a party?

Serving it in small cups or on mini tostadas makes it easy to enjoy as a flavorful finger food, perfect for mingling guests.

Final Thoughts

This Mexican Street Corn Salad Recipe is such a joy to make and share—its lively flavors, creamy textures, and hint of smoky char create a salad that feels like a celebration in every bite. Whether you’re new to Mexican flavors or a seasoned fan, this dish will brighten your table and inspire smiles all around. Give it a try and watch it quickly become a cherished favorite!

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