There’s a quiet kind of peace that comes when a pot of Amazing Mexican Street Corn Salad simmers slowly on the stove. The warm aroma of corn mingling with the zest of lime fills the air, inviting a sense of nostalgia and comfort. This salad, rooted in tradition, transcends the mere act of cooking it’s a celebration of community, an emblem of love shared around a table. With its vibrant ingredients and joyful textures, this dish nourishes not just the body but the soul, reminding us of the simple pleasures that come from heartfelt cooking.

A Gentle Recipe for Body & Soul

The Amazing Mexican Street Corn Salad is more than just a delightful recipe; it’s a source of rejuvenation and nourishment. As you gather your ingredients, allow yourself to be present, letting the sights and sounds of your kitchen envelop you. Each kernel of corn holds the essence of summer days spent outdoors, while the creamy dressing whispers comfort and warmth.

This salad is often found at bustling street stalls in Mexico, where it’s served fresh and filled with life. It invites you to take a moment, breathe deeply, and appreciate the simple act of creating something beautiful. As you craft this bowl, you are both the chef and the nurturer, tending to the needs of your body and the spirit of those you love.

Preparing Amazing Mexican Street Corn Salad with Care

“Cooking is a quiet way of caring for yourself and the ones you love.”

In this peaceful endeavor of cooking, you will find joy in each step. With mindful preparation, allow yourself to engage with the ingredients feel the smoothness of the corn, the brightness of the lime, and the freshness of the cilantro. Each item plays a role in the exquisite harmony of flavors you are about to create.

Here is a gentle overview of how we will come together to make this amazing dish. Start with selecting the freshest corn you can find. Each kernel is a component of joy waiting to burst open. As we assemble our other ingredients, we’ll also take time to appreciate their contributions, bringing a balance of creaminess, acidity, and warmth into our bowl.

Wholesome Ingredients You’ll Need for Amazing Mexican Street Corn Salad

Gather the following ingredients, embracing the warmth they bring to your kitchen:

• 4 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels (from about 6-8 ears of corn)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter or olive oil
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup sour cream or Mexican crema
• 1/4 cup crumbled cotija cheese, plus more for garnish
• 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice (from 1-2 limes)
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder, plus more for garnish
• 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
• 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh cilantro, plus more for garnish
• 1 small jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional, for heat)
• Salt to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper to taste

When selecting your ingredients, take a moment to breathe in their fragrances. If you can, opt for fresh herbs; they carry a gentle energy that elevates the dish. Each ingredient contributes not only flavor but the promise of comfort and nourishment.

Step-by-Step How to Prepare Amazing Mexican Street Corn Salad

1. Begin by heating the butter or olive oil in a large skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat. Allow the warmth to awaken the kitchen, feeling grateful for the nourishing process ahead.
2. Add the corn kernels to the pan and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. Watch for the corn to become tender and slightly charred, filling your space with the inviting scent of warmth.
3. Once the corn reaches the desired tenderness, remove the skillet from heat and let the corn cool for a few minutes. Take a moment to appreciate the beautiful golden color and the joyful sounds of cooking.
4. In a large bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream or crema, 1/4 cup of cotija cheese, lime juice, chili powder, and smoked paprika (if using). Stir gently until everything is well combined and smooth, savoring the blending of flavors.
5. Next, add the cooked corn, chopped cilantro, and minced jalapeño (if you desire a touch of heat) to the dressing mixture. Stir gently to coat all the corn, allowing the flavors to embrace each other fully.
6. Taste your creation and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed. Remember that cotija cheese is salty, so add salt cautiously, ensuring a balanced palette of flavors.
7. Transfer the Mexican street corn salad to a serving bowl. Garnish with additional crumbled cotija cheese, a sprinkle of chili powder, and extra fresh cilantro before serving. Allow your creation to shine, a beautiful burst of color and flavor.
8. Serve immediately as a delightful side dish, or for an even richer experience, chill for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together beautifully.

How to Serve Amazing Mexican Street Corn Salad with Intention

When it is time to serve your Amazing Mexican Street Corn Salad, take a moment to appreciate the collaborative effort that created it. As you place the salad in a bowl, consider how you would like it to be perceived. A clean, white bowl enhances the vibrant colors and the visual feast you’ve created.

Sprinkle additional crumbled cotija over the top for visual appeal, letting its richness dance among the lively tones of the corn and spices. Lay a few sprigs of fresh cilantro atop the dish, breathing life into your creation as you set it down on the table. Allow each guest a moment to appreciate the salad’s beauty before diving in.

How to Store Amazing Mexican Street Corn Salad the Right Way

This salad is a perfect candidate for leftovers, as its flavors deepen and evolve after resting. To store your creation:

• Place the salad in an airtight container, sealing in the essence of your work.
• Store it in the refrigerator for up to three days.
• When ready to enjoy again, consider giving it a gentle stir and tasting to see if it needs a touch more lime juice or fresh cilantro to refresh its flavors.

Rest assured that the salad will retain its comforting qualities while developing even more depth.

Mama Lila’s Helpful Tips

• For a lighter version, you can substitute Greek yogurt for the mayonnaise, adding a tangy twist while still keeping it creamy.
• If you prefer a roasted flavor, consider grilling the corn before adding it to the salad; the method brings out its sweetness and enhances its caramelized notes.
• Feel free to add black beans for extra nourishment, making the salad even more substantial and filled with texture.
• If you cannot find cotija cheese, feta cheese is a great substitute, adding a similar salty creaminess to the dish.
• Don’t forget to use fresh lime juice; it holds the bright warmth of summer and enhances all the flavors beautifully.

Discover More Nourishing Recipes

Head over to our Recipe Trends page and uncover a world of fresh, plant-forward ideas that fit right into your daily routine. From vibrant seasonal flavors to calming, wholesome dishes, each recipe is designed to spark inspiration and bring a sense of balance to your kitchen. Find comfort, joy, and connection in every meal while exploring what’s trending right now.

Peaceful Variations to Explore

As you become familiar with this recipe, your kitchen is a canvas for creativity. You might:

• Swap in fresh herbs like basil or mint for a surprising twist during different seasons.
• Incorporate seasonal vegetables such as diced bell peppers or diced tomatoes for additional color and nutrients.
• For a heartier dish, consider adding quinoa or even some grilled chicken, providing comfort and fullness.

Amazing Mexican Street Corn Salad

A vibrant and comforting salad featuring fresh corn and zesty ingredients, perfect for sharing and enjoying.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 25 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Salad, Side Dish

Cuisine: Mexican

Calories: 200

Ingredients Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

  

1x2x3x?

Main Ingredients

• 4 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels (from about 6-8 ears of corn)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter or olive oil
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup sour cream or Mexican crema
• 1/4 cup crumbled cotija cheese , plus more for garnish
• 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice (from 1-2 limes)
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder , plus more for garnish
• 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
• 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh cilantro , plus more for garnish
• 1 small jalapeño , seeded and minced (optional, for heat)
• Salt to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper to taste

Method

 

Preparation

1. Begin by heating the butter or olive oil in a large skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the corn kernels to the pan and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until tender and slightly charred.
3. Remove the skillet from heat and let the corn cool for a few minutes.

Mixing

1. In a large bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream or crema, cotija cheese, lime juice, chili powder, and smoked paprika (if using). Stir gently until well combined.
2. Add the cooled corn, chopped cilantro, and minced jalapeño (if using) to the dressing mixture.
3. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed.

Serving

1. Transfer the salad to a serving bowl and garnish with additional cotija cheese, a sprinkle of chili powder, and fresh cilantro.
2. Serve immediately or chill for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 200kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 3gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 3gSodium: 250mgFiber: 2gSugar: 4g

Notes

For a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for the mayonnaise. Grilling the corn can enhance its sweetness and flavor. Consider adding black beans or quinoa for extra texture. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!

Common Questions About Amazing Mexican Street Corn Salad

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, and it often tastes even more comforting the next day as the flavors blend.

Is there a way to make it vegan?
Certainly! You can substitute the mayonnaise with vegan mayo and replace the cotija cheese with a vegan feta or nutritional yeast.

Can I freeze this salad?
It is best served fresh, but if you have leftovers, you can store the salad in the refrigerator. However, freezing can change the texture of the corn.

Can I adjust the spice level?
Yes, feel free to omit the jalapeño for a milder flavor, or increase the amount if you like things spicy.

What do I serve with this salad?
This salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats, tacos, or simply served alongside a light soup for a wholesome meal.

Final Reflection

As you savor each bite of your Amazing Mexican Street Corn Salad, may it remind you of the warmth of home and the joy of gathering with loved ones. I hope this bowl brings you the same peace and warmth it brings to my home each time I cook it. Allow yourself to reflect on the nourishment it provides, both physically and emotionally, strengthening connections and bringing comfort to your table.