Name: Zesty Mexican Street Corn Salad That Bursts with Flavor
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 5 cups Corn, cut from the cob or frozen, not thawed (Fresh corn yields the best flavor and browning.); 2 tbsp Butter (Adds richness and depth when sautéing the corn.); 2 cloves Garlic, minced (Introduces aromatic flavor that enhances the overall savory profile.); 1/2 tsp Salt (Essential for enhancing the natural flavors of the ingredients.); 1/2 tsp Pepper (Essential for enhancing the natural flavors of the ingredients.); 1 cup Fresh Coriander/Cilantro, roughly chopped (Brings brightness and freshness.); 1 cup Green Onions, finely sliced (Adds a mild onion flavor and delightful crunch.); 1/2 Red Onion, finely chopped (Contributes sharpness—adjust quantity based on preference.); 1 tbsp Jalapeño, deseeded and finely chopped (optional) (Adds a spicy kick.); 1/4 cup Mayonnaise (Adds creaminess.); 1/4 cup Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt (Provides tanginess.); 2-3 tbsp Lime Juice, fresh (Essential for tang and brightness.); 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese, finely grated (Provides savory flavor.); 60 g Cotija or Feta Cheese, crumbled (optional) (Used as a garnish.)

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As I wandered through a bustling market in Oaxaca, the aroma of grilled corn and spices drew me in, reminding me just how incredible fresh corn can be. If you’ve ever tasted Mexican Street Corn Salad, you know exactly what I mean! This vibrant dish is a delightful spin on the traditional Esquites, featuring fresh sautéed corn mingling with a creamy lime dressing and fresh herbs. It’s not just a visually stunning side—this Mexican Corn Salad is quick to whip up, making it a perfect companion for summer barbecues or weeknight dinners. Whether you’re entertaining friends or treating yourself, this salad promises a burst of flavor and crunch you won’t easily forget. Are you ready to bring a little fiesta to your table?

Why is Mexican Street Corn Salad a Must-Try?

Bursting with Flavor: This salad delivers a medley of tastes, thanks to the sautéed corn, creamy dressing, and fresh herbs. Each bite offers a delightful crunch and zest!

Quick and Easy: Even if you’re short on time, making this dish is a breeze—it’s ready in about 20 minutes, making it an ideal option for last-minute gatherings or casual dinners.

Versatile Side Dish: Whether you’re serving it as a complement to grilled meats, tacos, or enjoying it solo as a light lunch, this salad adapts to any meal beautifully.

Fresh Ingredients Shine: Utilizing fresh corn makes all the difference, ensuring every bite is sweet and flavorful. For other delicious ideas, check out this post on vibrant summer salads!

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Perfect for barbecues and family gatherings, this dish is sure to impress guests with its vibrant color and delicious taste. Bring a bit of excitement to your table!

Mexican Corn Salad Ingredients

For the Salad
• Corn – 5 cups cut from the cob or frozen, not thawed; fresh corn yields the best flavor and browning.
• Butter – 2 tbsp (30g); adds richness and depth when sautéing the corn.
• Garlic – 2 cloves, minced; introduces aromatic flavor that enhances the overall savory profile.
• Salt & Pepper – 1/2 tsp each; essential for enhancing the natural flavors of the ingredients.
• Fresh Coriander/Cilantro – 1 cup, roughly chopped; brings brightness and freshness that can be substituted with parsley if desired.
• Green Onions – 1 cup, finely sliced; adds a mild onion flavor and delightful crunch.
• Red Onion – 1/2, finely chopped; contributes sharpness—adjust quantity based on your preference.
• Jalapeño – 1 tbsp, deseeded and finely chopped (optional); adds a spicy kick and can be omitted for a milder flavor.

For the Dressing
• Mayonnaise – 1/4 cup; adds creaminess that blends beautifully with other ingredients for a luscious dressing.
• Sour Cream – 1/4 cup or Greek yogurt; provides tanginess and balances the richness of mayonnaise.
• Lime Juice – 2–3 tbsp, fresh; essential for tang and brightness that elevates the overall flavors.
• Parmesan Cheese – 1/2 cup, finely grated; provides a savory flavor that deepens the dressing’s complexity. Substitute with nutritional yeast for a vegan alternative.
• Cotija or Feta Cheese – 60g (2 oz, crumbled optional); used as a garnish, this adds a savory touch and can be swapped with goat cheese or omitted.

Get ready to treat your taste buds to this zesty Mexican Corn Salad that’s bursting with flavor!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Mexican Street Corn Salad

Step 1: Prepare Corn
Start by cutting the kernels off the cobs to yield about 5 cups of fresh corn. If you’re using frozen corn, measure out 5 cups without thawing. This Mexican Street Corn Salad shines with the sweetness of fresh corn, so try to use that if possible. Set the corn aside as you get your skillet ready for the next step.

Step 2: Sauté Corn
In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over high heat until bubbly. Add 2 minced garlic cloves and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Toss in the corn and sauté for approximately 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the corn is lightly browned and caramelized. This adds a delightful flavor that will elevate your Mexican Corn Salad.

Step 3: Season
Halfway through the sautéing process, sprinkle in ½ teaspoon each of salt and pepper to enhance the natural sweetness of the corn. Stir well to ensure the seasonings are evenly distributed. The corn should start to develop a beautiful golden color, indicating it’s ready for the next stage in your zesty Mexican Street Corn Salad.

Step 4: Make Dressing
Once the corn is sautéed, transfer it to a large mixing bowl. Add ¼ cup of mayonnaise, ¼ cup of sour cream (or Greek yogurt), the juice from 2–3 fresh limes, and ½ cup of finely grated Parmesan cheese. Mix everything thoroughly until the creamy dressing envelops the warm corn, melting to create a luscious coating that’s simply irresistible.

Step 5: Add Fresh Ingredients
Now stir in 1 cup of roughly chopped fresh coriander (or cilantro), 1 cup of finely sliced green onions, ½ finely chopped red onion, and 1 tablespoon of finely chopped jalapeño if desired. Mix it all together gently until the colorful veggies are well incorporated into your Mexican Street Corn Salad, enhancing both flavor and crunch.

Step 6: Serve
Transfer the vibrant salad to a serving bowl. For an added touch of flavor, sprinkle with 60g of crumbled Cotija or feta cheese if desired. This Mexican Corn Salad can be served warm or at room temperature, making it the perfect side for any meal or summer gathering.

Tips for the Best Mexican Street Corn Salad

Fresh Corn Matters: Use fresh corn for an unbeatable flavor and browning; frozen is fine, but canned can make the salad soggy.

Sauté Right: Ensure your skillet is hot before adding the corn; this helps achieve that beautiful caramelization that enhances the sweetness.

Don’t Skip the Lime: Fresh lime juice is essential; it brightens the creamy dressing and balances the salad’s richness, so adjust to your taste!

Cheese Choices: While Cotija is ideal, feta works well too. If you’re vegan, consider using nutritional yeast for a similar flavor profile without the dairy.

Mix Gently: When incorporating fresh ingredients, fold gently so you don’t squish the corn; maintaining that crunch is key for a delightful texture in Mexican Street Corn Salad.

Serving Size: This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to two days; the flavors may intensify, making it even tastier!

Make Ahead Options

These Mexican Corn Salad preparations are a lifesaver for busy weeknights! You can sauté the corn and prepare the dressing up to 24 hours in advance. Simply sauté the corn as directed, let it cool, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The dressing can also be mixed and refrigerated, but keep the fresh ingredients—like cilantro, green onions, and jalapeño—unmixed until just before serving for optimal freshness. When you’re ready to enjoy this flavorful Mexican Corn Salad, simply combine the sautéed corn with the dressing and fresh ingredients, and you’ll have a vibrant, delicious salad that tastes just as fresh!

What to Serve with Fresh and Zesty Mexican Corn Salad

This refreshing dish brings vibrant flavors that call for the perfect companions to complete your meal.

Grilled Chicken: The smoky notes of grilled chicken provide a delicious contrast to the zesty salad, making it a well-rounded meal. Pairing this salad with juicy chicken reflects the heart of summer cookouts!
Tacos al Pastor: The rich, savory flavors of these pork tacos complement the fresh corn salad, creating a fiesta of flavors on your plate. Together, they celebrate authentic Mexican cuisine in every bite!
Black Bean Quesadillas: The creamy, cheesy black bean quesadillas balance out the freshness of the corn salad, creating a satisfying and flavorful combination perfect for any meal.
Avocado Toast: Luscious avocado on toasted bread pairs beautifully with the corn salad, adding creaminess and healthy fats that harmonize well with the dish’s crunch and zest.
Margaritas: A classic cocktail choice, the cool, tangy lime margarita enhances the refreshing elements of the salad, making it an ideal drink for summer gatherings.
Churros with Chocolate Sauce: Finish off the meal with these sweet, crispy delights. The contrasting richness of churros beautifully rounds out the flavors of the corn salad, creating an indulgent ending to a delightful dinner.
Roasted Vegetables: Serve alongside caramelized roasted vegetables for added texture and a hearty element, enhancing the flavor profile while keeping the meal light.
Cilantro Lime Rice: This fragrant rice dish echoes the fresh herbs in the salad, reinforcing the vibrant theme of the meal while providing a filling accompaniment.
Sangria: A fruity, refreshing sangria complements the zest of the corn salad, making it a delightful drink option for summer gatherings or casual dinners.

Mexican Corn Salad Variations

Feel free to let your creativity flow—this recipe is effortlessly adaptable to suit your taste buds!

Spicy Twist: Add extra jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper for a fiery kick that will elevate the zesty flavor profile.
Creamy Avocado: Fold in diced avocado for a rich, buttery texture that complements the salad’s crunch while adding a nutritious boost.
Fresh Herbs: Experiment with fresh basil or mint in place of cilantro for a unique herbaceous twist that brightens the overall taste.
Cheese Swap: Substitute Parmesan with crumbled goat cheese for a tangy tang that adds depth and richness to each delicious bite.
Add Texture: Mix in a cup of cooked quinoa or couscous to transform this salad into a heartier dish that’s satisfying and filling.
Nutty Crunch: Toss in some toasted pumpkin seeds or pine nuts for a delightful crunch that enhances that comforting, homey feel.
Citrus Burst: Include segments of fresh orange or grapefruit to add juicy, sweet tanginess that contrasts beautifully with savory ingredients.
Color Boost: Add diced bell peppers for a pop of color and crunchy freshness that visually enhances the dish while delivering extra nutrients.

Storage Tips for Mexican Street Corn Salad

Fridge: Store leftover Mexican Street Corn Salad in an airtight container for up to 2 days. This helps preserve its fresh flavors while allowing them to meld together even more.

Freezer: For longer storage, you can freeze the sautéed corn before mixing it with the rest of the ingredients. It will last up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before using in your salad.

Reheating: If desired, gently reheat the sautéed corn in a skillet over low heat until warmed through before combining with the dressing and fresh ingredients. Avoid overheating as it can alter the texture and fresh taste.

Room Temperature: If you’re serving the salad at a gathering, it can sit at room temperature for about 1 hour. Beyond that, store it back in the fridge to ensure food safety.

Mexican Corn Salad Recipe FAQs

What type of corn should I use for the best flavor?
Using fresh corn is essential for this Mexican Corn Salad to achieve the best flavor and browning during sautéing. If fresh corn isn’t available, frozen corn works well, but avoid canned corn, as it tends to be higher in moisture, which may make your salad soggy.

How should I store leftover Mexican Corn Salad?
Store any leftover Mexican Corn Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The flavors will meld together beautifully, making it even tastier as it sits. Just give it a gentle stir before serving to redistribute the flavors.

Can I freeze Mexican Corn Salad?
Absolutely! You can freeze the sautéed corn before mixing it with the dressing and fresh ingredients. Make sure to cool the cooked corn completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can last up to 3 months. When you’re ready to use it, thaw the corn overnight in the refrigerator and mix it with the remaining ingredients.

What should I do if my corn is too soggy?
Soggy corn can stem from using canned corn or cooking it for too long. To troubleshoot this, ensure you’re using fresh or frozen corn and sautéing it just until lightly browned, about 5-7 minutes. If you’ve ended up with a slightly soggy salad, try serving it chilled with a sprinkle of extra lime juice and fresh herbs to brighten the flavor.

Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians or those with dietary restrictions?
Yes, this Mexican Corn Salad is naturally vegetarian and can easily be modified for various dietary needs. To make it vegan, substitute mayonnaise and sour cream with plant-based alternatives and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan. Additionally, you can omit the cheese or replace it with vegan cheese to cater to different preferences.