Mexican Street Corn Salad (Elote)

Elote salad is a delightful dish that brings the vibrant flavors of Mexican street food right to your table. This Mexican Street Corn Salad (Elote) is creamy, tangy, and sweet with a hint of spice, making it an irresistible choice for any gathering. Perfect as a side dish for barbecues, potlucks, or even a cozy family dinner, this salad is sure to impress your guests and become a favorite recipe in your household.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: Ready in just 15 minutes, this salad is the perfect last-minute addition to any meal.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of grilled corn, creamy dressing, and spices creates a mouthwatering experience.
• Versatile Side Dish: Pair it with tacos, grilled meats, or serve it at summer picnics.
• Fresh Ingredients: Made with simple ingredients that are easy to find and full of flavor.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Everyone loves Mexican street corn; this salad version is no exception!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making your Mexican Street Corn Salad (Elote), gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill or skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill or skillet: Essential for achieving that delicious charred flavor on the corn.
• Mixing bowl: Helps combine all ingredients evenly for maximum flavor.
• Knife: A good quality knife makes cutting corn kernels easy and safe.

Ingredients

For the Salad

• 4 ears corn
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1/4 cup red onion (minced)
• 1/4 cup cotija cheese (crumbled)
• 3 tbsp sour cream (or crema)
• 2 tbsp mayo
• 1/4 tsp cumin
• 1/4 tsp chili powder
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1/8 tsp cayenne (optional)
• 1/4 cup cilantro (chopped)
• 2 tbsp lime juice (about 1 lime)

How to Make Mexican Street Corn Salad (Elote)

Step 1: Grill the Corn

Brush the corn with melted butter and grill on medium heat for about 8-10 minutes until all sides are slightly charred. Once grilled, cut off the kernels and place them in a mixing bowl.

Step 2: Sauté on Stovetop (Optional)

If you prefer not to grill, you can cut off the corn kernels first. Heat a large skillet on medium-high heat and melt the butter. Add the corn and sauté for 5-8 minutes, stirring occasionally until lightly browned. Turn off the heat.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

In the mixing bowl with the corn, combine all dressing ingredients along with minced red onion and crumbled cotija cheese. Mix gently until well combined. Serve warm for best flavor.

This Mexican Street Corn Salad (Elote) will be a hit at any gathering! Enjoy!

How to Serve Mexican Street Corn Salad (Elote)

Mexican Street Corn Salad (Elote) is a versatile dish that enhances any meal. Whether served as a side or a refreshing main, this salad brings vibrant flavors to your table.

As a Side Dish

• Serve alongside grilled meats for a delightful contrast in flavors.
• Pair with tacos for a complete Mexican-inspired meal.

In Tacos

• Use as a topping for soft or hard-shell tacos to add creamy texture and crunch.
• Mix it into fish or chicken tacos for an extra burst of flavor.

As a Dip

• Enjoy with tortilla chips for a fun appetizer or snack.
• Combine with guacamole for a festive dip platter.

With Rice or Quinoa

• Serve over rice or quinoa to create a hearty bowl.
• Add black beans for added protein and nutrition.

How to Perfect Mexican Street Corn Salad (Elote)

To ensure your Mexican Street Corn Salad is the best it can be, consider these helpful tips.

• Use fresh corn: Fresh corn will provide the sweetest flavor and crunch compared to frozen or canned options.
• Adjust spice levels: Customize the heat by adding more cayenne or chili powder based on your preference.
• Chill before serving: Allowing the salad to sit in the fridge for about 30 minutes helps meld the flavors together beautifully.
• Experiment with cheese: Substitute cotija with feta or parmesan if desired, while maintaining that creamy texture.
• Add more herbs: Incorporate extra cilantro or try adding green onions for additional freshness and flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Mexican Street Corn Salad (Elote)

Pairing your Mexican Street Corn Salad with complementary sides can elevate your dining experience. Here are some great options:

1. Grilled Chicken Tacos: Juicy grilled chicken wrapped in warm tortillas is perfect alongside this refreshing salad.
2. Black Bean Soup: A hearty, flavorful soup that balances well with the creaminess of elote salad.
3. Chips and Guacamole: Classic tortilla chips paired with rich, creamy guacamole make for an irresistible appetizer combo.
4. Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice with spices adds substance and pairs wonderfully with the salad’s tangy notes.
5. Quesadillas: Cheese-filled quesadillas offer melty goodness that complements the crunch of elote salad.
6. Pico de Gallo: Fresh tomato salsa adds brightness and acidity, enhancing your meal’s overall flavor profile.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Mexican Street Corn Salad (Elote) can be simple, but there are common pitfalls that can affect the taste and texture. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Overcooking the Corn: Cooking corn for too long can make it chewy. Grill or sauté just until slightly charred or browned, about 8-10 minutes.
• Skipping the Seasoning: Not seasoning the salad properly can lead to bland flavors. Make sure to use all spices listed in the recipe to enhance the overall taste.
• Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Poor-quality corn or cheese will result in a less flavorful dish. Choose fresh corn and authentic cotija cheese for the best results.
• Not Serving Immediately: Serving this salad too late may cause it to lose its creamy texture. Enjoy it warm right after mixing for optimal flavor and creaminess.
• Ignoring Customization Options: Sticking strictly to the recipe can limit creativity. Feel free to add ingredients like avocado or jalapeños for an extra kick.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Mexican Street Corn Salad can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Mexican Street Corn Salad (Elote)

• Freezing is not recommended as it may alter the texture of the salad.
• If you must freeze, store it in a freezer-safe container and consume within 1 month.

Reheating Mexican Street Corn Salad (Elote)

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread salad on a baking sheet and warm for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Place the salad in a microwave-safe bowl, cover with a lid, and heat in 30-second intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of water or butter, then stir until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Mexican Street Corn Salad (Elote)?

Mexican Street Corn Salad, or Elote, is a creamy salad made with grilled corn, spices, cheese, and lime juice. It captures all the delicious flavors of traditional street corn in a refreshing side dish.

Can I make Mexican Street Corn Salad ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare this salad up to 2 days ahead. Just keep it refrigerated in an airtight container until you’re ready to serve.

What can I substitute for cotija cheese?

Feta cheese is a great alternative if you can’t find cotija cheese. It provides a similar salty flavor and crumbly texture.

How do I customize my Mexican Street Corn Salad?

Feel free to add ingredients like diced avocado or chopped jalapeños for additional flavor and texture variations. You can also adjust spices according to your preference.

Final Thoughts

Mexican Street Corn Salad (Elote) is not only delicious but also versatile enough to suit various occasions. Its creamy texture combined with vibrant flavors makes it an excellent side dish for tacos or grilled meats. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite ingredients! Try this recipe today and enjoy a delightful taste of Mexico at home!

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Mexican Street Corn Salad (Elote)

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• Author: Vanessa
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6

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Description

Mexican Street Corn Salad, also known as Elote, is a vibrant and flavorful dish that brings the essence of Mexican street food to your dining table. This creamy salad combines grilled corn with a zesty dressing featuring lime juice, spices, and crumbled cotija cheese. Perfect for barbecues, potlucks, or family dinners, this refreshing salad is a crowd-pleaser that elevates any meal. Quick to prepare and bursting with flavor, it’s an easy addition that everyone will love. Enjoy it as a side dish or use it as a topping for tacos and grilled meats—either way, your taste buds are in for a treat!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 ears corn
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1/4 cup red onion (minced)
• 1/4 cup cotija cheese (crumbled)
• 3 tbsp sour cream (or crema)
• 2 tbsp mayo
• 1/4 tsp cumin
• 1/4 tsp chili powder
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1/8 tsp cayenne (optional)
• 1/4 cup cilantro (chopped)
• 2 tbsp lime juice (about 1 lime)

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Instructions

1. Brush corn with melted butter and grill over medium heat for about 8-10 minutes until charred. Cut kernels off the cob.
2. In a mixing bowl, mix grilled corn with minced red onion, cotija cheese, sour cream, mayo, spices, cilantro, and lime juice until well combined.
3. Enjoy warm or chilled as a delightful side dish.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Grilling/ Mixing
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
• Calories: 210
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 320mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 5g
• Cholesterol: 30mg