Print

Zesty Cilantro Lime Mexican Street Corn Salad

cilantro lime mexican street corn salad - featured image
Print Recipe

A bright, tangy, and slightly spicy Mexican street corn salad that captures the smoky, creamy magic of street corn in an easy-to-make side dish perfect for BBQs, potlucks, and taco nights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 ears fresh corn kernels (about 4 cups if using frozen, thawed)
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup sour cream (can substitute Greek yogurt)
  • Juice of 2 limes (about 1/4 cup)
  • 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (about 15 grams)
  • 1/2 cup cotija cheese, crumbled (or feta/queso fresco)
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

  1. Cut kernels off 4 ears of fresh corn using a sharp knife. If using frozen corn, thaw completely and pat dry.
  2. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add corn kernels in an even layer and cook undisturbed for 3-4 minutes to get charred bits, then stir and cook another 3-4 minutes until lightly browned and smoky. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
  3. In a mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning as needed.
  4. Add the warm roasted corn kernels to the dressing and toss to coat evenly.
  5. Gently fold in crumbled cotija cheese and chopped cilantro.
  6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes to let flavors meld. Before serving, stir and optionally sprinkle extra cotija cheese or chili powder on top.

Notes

Pat frozen or canned corn dry before roasting to get maximum char. Add cilantro last to preserve its bright color and flavor. For a smoky boost, add smoked paprika or hot sauce. The salad tastes better after chilling for at least 20 minutes. Can be made dairy-free by substituting vegan mayo, dairy-free yogurt, and omitting cheese or using nutritional yeast.

Nutrition

Keywords: Mexican street corn salad, cilantro lime corn salad, Mexican side dish, corn salad recipe, easy corn salad, BBQ side dish, potluck recipe

Find it online: https://leilameals.com/zesty-cilantro-lime-mexican-street-corn-salad-recipe-easy-and-best-side-dish/