Mexican Corn Salad

Ready in only 10 minutes, this Mexican corn salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish that brings the essence of street food right to your table. Perfect for summer barbecues, potlucks, or casual weeknight dinners, this salad combines sweet corn with a creamy lime dressing and tangy cotija cheese. It’s quick to prepare, making it an ideal choice for any occasion when you need a delicious side dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This Mexican corn salad can be made in just 10 minutes, making it the perfect last-minute addition to any meal.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of fresh ingredients and zesty dressing ensures each bite is packed with flavor.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it warm or cold, as a side dish or a light main course; it’s suitable for any meal.
• Healthy Ingredients: With fresh veggies and no added sugars, this salad is a nutritious choice for health-conscious eaters.
• Crowd-Pleaser: The rich flavors and bright colors make it a hit at parties and gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Mexican corn salad efficiently, having the right tools handy will streamline your process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Medium mixing bowl
• Small mixing bowl
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Medium mixing bowl: Essential for combining all salad ingredients without spilling.
• Small mixing bowl: Perfect for mixing the dressing separately to ensure even distribution of flavors.
• Knife: Necessary for chopping vegetables like green onions and jalapenos safely and efficiently.
• Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for cutting ingredients, keeping your workspace tidy.

Ingredients

Ingredients:
– 3 (15 ounce) cans fire-roasted corn, drained (or 4 fresh ears of corn, grilled)
– 5 green onions, chopped (only the green parts)
– ½ cup crumbled cotija, plus more for topping
– ½ cup diced red onion
– ⅓ cup chopped cilantro
– 1 jalapeno, diced
– 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Juice of 1 lime (about 2 tablespoons)
– ½ teaspoon chili powder
– ¼ teaspoon salt
– ⅛ teaspoon black pepper

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Mexican Corn Salad

Step 1: Combine Salad Ingredients

Add the salad ingredients to a medium bowl:
1. Pour in the drained canned corn or grilled corn.
2. Add chopped green onions, crumbled cotija cheese, diced red onion, chopped cilantro, and diced jalapeno.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing

In a small bowl, stir together the dressing ingredients:
1. Mix together mayonnaise, minced garlic, lime juice, salt, and black pepper until smooth.

Step 3: Toss Salad with Dressing

1. Add the dressing to the salad mixture in the medium bowl.
2. Gently toss everything together until well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper if needed.

Step 4: Serve

1. Serve immediately for best flavor or cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.
2. Optionally sprinkle more cotija cheese on top before serving. This Mexican corn salad can be enjoyed warm or cold; if serving warm, heat the corn before mixing it in.

Enjoy this vibrant dish as part of your next meal!

How to Serve Mexican Corn Salad

Mexican corn salad is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways. Whether for a casual gathering or a festive celebration, this salad complements many meals and occasions.

As a Side Dish

• Serve alongside grilled meats for a refreshing contrast that enhances the flavors of your main dish.
• Pair with tacos or burritos to create a vibrant, colorful plate.

In Tacos

• Use as a topping for soft or hard-shell tacos, adding crunch and creaminess to each bite.
• Mix with shredded chicken or beef for an added protein boost.

As a Dip

• Enjoy with tortilla chips for a tasty snack or appetizer at parties.
• Spoon onto crackers for an easy and delightful finger food option.

On Its Own

• Serve chilled in small bowls as a light lunch or snack option.
• Garnish with extra cotija cheese and lime wedges for added flair.

How to Perfect Mexican Corn Salad

To elevate your Mexican corn salad, consider these helpful tips that enhance flavor and presentation.

• Use fresh corn: If possible, opt for grilled fresh corn instead of canned for a smokier taste and fresher texture.
• Adjust spice levels: Modify the amount of jalapeno to suit your heat preference; remove seeds for less heat.
• Add more herbs: Experiment with fresh herbs like parsley or mint to add unique flavors and freshness.
• Make it creamy: For an even richer dressing, mix in sour cream or Greek yogurt along with the mayonnaise.
• Serve chilled: Allow the salad to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together.
• Garnish generously: Finish with additional cotija cheese and cilantro right before serving for extra color and taste.

Best Side Dishes for Mexican Corn Salad

Pairing side dishes with Mexican corn salad can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options that complement its flavors perfectly.

1. Grilled Chicken Tacos: Juicy chicken seasoned with spices wrapped in soft tortillas makes a perfect match.
2. Black Bean Rice: A hearty side that adds texture and nutrients while balancing the freshness of the salad.
3. Guacamole: Creamy avocado dip enhances the meal’s richness and offers different flavors alongside the salad.
4. Chips and Salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips paired with zesty salsa provide an enjoyable contrast to the creamy salad.
5. Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers filled with quinoa, cheese, and spices offer a colorful and nutritious addition.
6. Mexican Street Corn (Elote): Grilled corn on the cob coated in mayo, chili powder, and cotija cheese mirrors the flavors found in your salad.
7. Cilantro Lime Rice: Lightly flavored rice brings out the zesty notes of lime present in the salad and keeps things refreshing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Mexican corn salad, it’s easy to overlook a few key details that can impact the flavor and texture. Here are some common mistakes to avoid.

• Skipping Fresh Ingredients: Using canned corn is convenient, but fresh grilled corn enhances the flavor significantly. Opt for fresh corn when possible for the best taste.
• Not Tasting Before Serving: Always taste your salad before serving. Adjust seasoning as needed; this ensures that your Mexican corn salad has optimal flavor.
• Overcooking the Corn: If using fresh corn, avoid overcooking it on the grill or stove. Aim for just enough time to heat it through and impart a slight char, which adds depth.
• Ignoring Texture Balance: Including ingredients like jalapeno and red onion adds crunch, so don’t skip them. A well-balanced texture makes the salad more enjoyable.
• Forgetting Presentation: Presentation matters! Garnish with extra cotija cheese and cilantro for an appealing look that invites guests to dig in.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keeps well for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
• Ensure it’s cooled before sealing to maintain freshness.

Freezing Mexican Corn Salad

• Not recommended for freezing due to texture changes.
• If necessary, freeze components separately (corn and dressing) but consume within one month for best quality.

Reheating Mexican Corn Salad

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warmed through, about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover with a lid or microwave-safe wrap, and heat in 30-second increments until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat over low heat in a pan, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Avoid high heat to prevent sogginess.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Mexican Corn Salad?

Mexican corn salad is a delicious dish inspired by street food called Esquites. It combines sweet corn with vibrant flavors from lime dressing, cotija cheese, and fresh vegetables.

Can I use frozen corn instead of canned?

Yes, you can use frozen corn if you prefer. Just make sure to thaw and drain it before adding it to your salad for the best results.

How can I customize my Mexican Corn Salad?

You can add ingredients like diced bell peppers, avocado, or black beans for added nutrition and flavor. Feel free to adjust based on your preferences!

What should I serve with Mexican Corn Salad?

This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, tacos, or as part of a larger buffet spread during summer gatherings or parties.

Is this recipe spicy?

The level of spice depends on how much jalapeno you add. For less heat, reduce the amount or omit it altogether.

Final Thoughts

Mexican corn salad is not only quick and easy to prepare but also bursting with flavor and color. Its versatility allows for various customization options based on personal taste or seasonal ingredients. Whether served at a picnic or as a side dish at dinner, this refreshing salad is sure to impress your family and friends. Give it a try today!

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Mexican Corn Salad

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Mexican corn salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that captures the essence of summer with its bright flavors and colorful ingredients. Ready in just 10 minutes, this delightful salad features sweet corn tossed with creamy lime dressing, tangy cotija cheese, and fresh vegetables. Ideal for barbecues, potlucks, or casual dinners, it makes for a versatile side dish that can be served warm or cold. With its burst of flavors and appealing presentation, this Mexican corn salad is sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. Enjoy it on its own, as a topping for tacos, or as a tasty dip with tortilla chips.

• Total Time: 10 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings

Ingredients

• Fire-roasted corn (canned or fresh)
• Green onions
• Cotija cheese
• Red onion
• Cilantro
• Jalapeno
• Mayonnaise
• Garlic
• Lime juice

Instructions

1. In a medium bowl, combine drained corn, chopped green onions, crumbled cotija cheese, diced red onion, chopped cilantro, and diced jalapeno.
2. In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, minced garlic, lime juice, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and gently toss until well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
4. Serve immediately or cover and refrigerate until ready to serve. Optionally garnish with extra cotija cheese.

• Author: Natalia
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: No cooking
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
• Calories: 220
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 280mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 24g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 6g
• Cholesterol: 15mg

Keywords: For an enhanced flavor profile, opt for grilled fresh corn instead of canned. Adjust jalapeno quantity according to your preferred spice level; remove seeds for less heat. Experiment by adding other herbs like parsley or mint for added freshness.