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The Best Mexican Street Corn Salad (Elote Salad Style)

Close-up of a white bowl filled with creamy street corn salad topped with cotija cheese and cilantro.
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Create a vibrant, creamy, and zesty Mexican Street Corn Salad that captures the authentic flavor of elote. This recipe focuses on charring the corn and balancing the dressing for a perfect summer side dish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels (about 4 ears)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a healthier option)
  • 1/2 cup crumbled Cotija cheese, plus more for topping
  • 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional, for heat)
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. If using fresh corn, slice the kernels off the cobs. If using frozen, thaw completely.
  2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the corn kernels and cook, stirring occasionally, until the corn is lightly charred and tender, about 6 to 8 minutes. This charring step is key for authentic flavor.
  3. Remove the charred corn from the heat and let it cool slightly in a large bowl.
  4. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt), lime juice, Cotija cheese, red onion, cilantro, jalapeño (if using), chili powder, and cumin. This is your creamy dressing.
  5. Pour the dressing over the slightly cooled corn mixture. Toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
  6. Season the salad with salt and black pepper to your preference.
  7. Chill the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
  8. Serve cold or at room temperature, garnished with extra crumbled Cotija cheese.

Notes

  • For an extra smoky flavor, grill the corn cobs directly over high heat until blackened in spots before removing the kernels.
  • If you cannot find Cotija cheese, substitute with Feta cheese, though the flavor profile will change slightly.
  • This salad is excellent as a BBQ side dish or served with grilled chicken or fish.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://www.unfoldrecipes.com/street-corn-salad-best-mexican-elote-recipe/