Mexican Street Corn Salad (Printable)
A tangy, creamy salad with charred corn, fresh cilantro, cotija cheese, and zesty lime.
# What You Need:
→ Vegetables
01 - 4 ears fresh corn, husked or 3 cups frozen corn kernels, thawed
02 - 1/2 small red onion, finely diced
03 - 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
04 - 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
→ Dressing
05 - 1/4 cup mayonnaise
06 - 1/4 cup sour cream
07 - 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
08 - 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
09 - 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
10 - 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
11 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
→ Cheese & Garnish
12 - 1/2 cup cotija cheese, crumbled or feta as substitute
13 - Extra chili powder, for garnish
14 - Lime wedges, for serving
# How To Cook:
01 - Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Add corn kernels and cook, stirring occasionally, until lightly charred, about 7 to 8 minutes. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
02 - In a large mixing bowl, transfer charred corn. Add finely diced red onion, chopped jalapeño, and chopped cilantro.
03 - In a separate small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, fresh lime juice, chili powder, smoked paprika, sea salt, and black pepper until smooth.
04 - Pour the prepared dressing over the corn mixture and toss thoroughly to evenly coat.
05 - Add crumbled cotija cheese and gently toss to incorporate.
06 - Transfer salad to a serving platter. Garnish with additional cotija cheese, a sprinkle of chili powder, and lime wedges. Serve immediately or chilled.
# Expert Tips:
01 -
- Uses easy to find ingredients and comes together fast
- Delivers big vibrant flavors from a handful of fresh and pantry staples
- Flexible for parties, picnics, or weeknight dinners
- Serves as a vegetarian and gluten-free side everyone can enjoy
02 -
- Packed with fiber and protein
- No need to turn on the oven in summer
- Customizable for different spice levels
- Cotija cheese is my absolute favorite part It melts just a little into the salad and adds a briny punch My kids insist on extra cheese and lime wedges—those tart little bursts always make them giggle
03 -
- Sear the corn until you see those deep brown spots for irresistible smoky flavor
- Always use freshly squeezed lime juice for the brightest punch
- Taste before serving so you can add more salt or chili powder to suit your crowd