Elote Corn Salad is a vibrant and tasty dish that brings together the flavors of fresh corn, creamy dressing, and zesty seasonings. This salad captures the essence of traditional Mexican street corn, but it’s served as a refreshing salad that’s perfect for any occasion. If you enjoy Mexican cuisine, you might also like grilled chicken and corn salad, which pairs well with this dish.
Why Make This Recipe
Making Elote Corn Salad is not only simple but also allows for creativity with fresh ingredients. It is a great addition to summer barbecues, picnics, or as a side dish for any meal. This dish offers a satisfying combination of textures and flavors, with just the right amount of spice. It’s a good way to use up fresh corn during the corn season, and you can easily customize it to suit your own tastes. For example, if you are looking for more salad inspiration, check out Southwest chicken salad with avocado and corn.
How to Make Elote Corn Salad
To prepare Elote Corn Salad, you’ll need the following ingredients: You may also find Asian Chicken Cranberry Salad Chicken Salad useful.
Ingredients: You may also find Asian Chicken Salad useful.
- 4 cups fresh corn kernels
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, diced
- 1/2 cup Cotija cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- In a large bowl, combine the corn, cilantro, and red onion.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, lime juice, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the corn mixture and toss to coat.
- Sprinkle with Cotija cheese before serving.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
This salad is quick to assemble and can be prepared in advance, making it an ideal choice for gatherings. If you’re looking for other creative salad ideas, consider making an antipasto salad which is also easy to enjoy.
How to Serve Elote Corn Salad
Elote Corn Salad is best served chilled. You can scoop it into individual bowls or serve it family-style in a large dish. This salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats and is a fantastic addition to any summer feast. Its bright and colorful appearance makes it an eye-catching dish that guests will love.
How to Store Elote Corn Salad
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The salad is best consumed within two days, but the flavors will continue to blend as it sits. Avoid leaving it out at room temperature for extended periods to ensure food safety.
Tips to Make Elote Corn Salad
- For a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños to the corn mixture.
- You can use frozen corn if fresh corn is not available; just thaw it before mixing.
- To make the dish vegan, replace mayonnaise with a vegan alternative and omit the Cotija cheese.
- Consider a light grilling of the corn on the cob before cutting it off the cob; it adds a smoky flavor that enhances the dish.
Variation
Feel free to experiment with ingredients! Add in diced bell peppers for extra crunch or use different cheeses like feta for a unique taste. You can also mix in avocado for creaminess or even add black beans for some extra protein and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use corn from a can or frozen corn?
Yes, canned or frozen corn can work in this recipe. Just ensure that you drain the corn well if using canned corn.
Is Elote Corn Salad gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients used in this recipe are naturally gluten-free.
How long can I keep Elote Corn Salad in the fridge?
The salad is best enjoyed within two days when stored properly in an airtight container.
Conclusion
Elote Corn Salad makes for a delightful dish that is easy to prepare and delicious to eat. If you’re looking for variations on corn salad, check out the Mexican Street Corn Salad Recipe from Love and Lemons for a unique twist, or try the Mexican Street Corn Salad (Esquites) Recipe from Serious Eats. For a different take on this classic, consider the Mexican Corn Salad from Foxes Love Lemons. Enjoy making this dish!
Print
Elote Corn Salad
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A vibrant and tasty salad combining fresh corn, creamy dressing, and zesty seasonings, inspired by traditional Mexican street corn.
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh corn kernels
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, diced
- 1/2 cup Cotija cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Combine the corn, cilantro, and red onion in a large bowl.
- Whisk together the mayonnaise, lime juice, chili powder, salt, and pepper in a separate bowl.
- Pour the dressing over the corn mixture and toss to coat.
- Sprinkle with Cotija cheese before serving.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Notes
Best served chilled and can be prepared in advance. Store leftovers in an airtight container and consume within two days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 15mg