Mexican Corn Salad

Mexican corn salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish that brings the taste of summer to your table. This quick and easy recipe celebrates the sweetness of corn, complemented by a zesty lime dressing and creamy cotija cheese. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or as a side at a party, this salad is sure to impress with its fresh ingredients and delightful flavors.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: Ready in just 10 minutes, this salad is perfect for busy days or last-minute gatherings.
• Fresh Flavors: The combination of lime juice, cilantro, and jalapeno adds a refreshing kick that elevates the dish.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it warm or cold—this salad adapts to any occasion whether it’s a picnic or a cozy dinner.
• Crowd-Pleaser: With its colorful presentation and rich taste, it’s sure to be a hit among family and friends.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with nutrients from fresh vegetables and herbs, this salad is both delicious and nutritious.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes preparing your Mexican corn salad an effortless task. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Medium bowl
• Small bowl
• Mixing spoon
• Measuring cups
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Medium bowl: Ideal for combining all the main ingredients easily without spilling.
• Small bowl: Perfect for mixing the dressing separately before adding it to the salad.

Ingredients

For the Salad

• 3 (15 ounce) cans fire-roasted corn, drained (or 4 fresh ears of corn, grilled)
• 5 green onions, chopped (only the green parts)
• ½ cup crumbled cotija, plus more for topping
• ½ cup diced red onion
• ⅓ cup chopped cilantro
• 1 jalapeno, diced

For the Dressing

• 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Juice of 1 lime (about 2 tablespoons)
• ½ teaspoon chili powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ⅛ teaspoon black pepper

How to Make Mexican Corn Salad

Step 1: Combine Salad Ingredients

1. In a medium bowl, add all the salad ingredients: corn, green onions, cotija cheese, red onion, cilantro, and jalapeno.
2. Gently mix them together until well combined.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, minced garlic, lime juice, salt, and pepper until smooth.

Step 3: Toss Everything Together

1. Pour the dressing over the salad mixture.
2. Toss everything together until all ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
3. Taste your salad and adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper if needed.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

1. Serve immediately for best flavor or cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.
2. If desired, sprinkle extra cotija cheese on top just before serving. This Mexican corn salad can be enjoyed warm or cold; if you prefer it warm, simply heat the corn before mixing.

This Mexican corn salad is not only simple to make but also packed with flavor—making it an excellent choice for any meal or gathering!

How to Serve Mexican Corn Salad

Mexican corn salad is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether as a side dish, a topping, or a standalone meal, it brings vibrant flavors and colors to the table.

As a Side Dish

• Serve alongside grilled meats for a refreshing contrast.
• Pair with tacos to complement spicy flavors.

In Tacos

• Use as a filling for soft or hard-shell tacos for added crunch.
• Top your favorite meat or plant-based taco with this salad for extra flavor.

As a Dip

• Serve with tortilla chips for a delicious dip.
• Add it to nachos for an exciting twist on traditional toppings.

In Wraps

• Spread on tortillas or lettuce leaves and wrap with your choice of protein.
• Combine with avocado and chicken for a healthy, satisfying lunch option.

As a Cold Salad

• Chill before serving to enhance the flavors and make it even more refreshing.
• Perfect for picnics or potlucks, as it holds up well at room temperature.

How to Perfect Mexican Corn Salad

To elevate your Mexican corn salad, consider these helpful tips. They will enhance the flavors and texture of your dish.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh corn can add sweetness and crunch compared to canned versions.
• Adjust spice levels: Modify the amount of jalapeno based on your heat preference; remove seeds for less heat.
• Chill before serving: Allowing the salad to sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes lets flavors meld beautifully.
• Experiment with herbs: Swap cilantro with parsley or add other herbs like mint for unique flavor profiles.
• Add protein: Incorporate shredded chicken or black beans to make the salad heartier.

Best Side Dishes for Mexican Corn Salad

Pairing your Mexican corn salad with complementary side dishes can elevate any meal. Here are some great options:

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers – Marinated chicken skewers add protein and smoky flavor, making them an ideal match.
2. Quinoa Salad – A light quinoa salad with citrus dressing offers additional nutrition and freshness.
3. Black Bean Tacos – Flavorful black bean tacos provide a hearty vegetarian option that pairs well with the salad’s flavors.
4. Avocado Toast – Creamy avocado toast is perfect for brunch or as a light dinner side dish alongside the corn salad.
5. Stuffed Peppers – Colorful stuffed bell peppers filled with rice and beans complement the textures in the corn salad.
6. Cilantro Lime Rice – This fragrant rice dish enhances the Mexican theme while adding another layer of flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Mexican corn salad can be a breeze, but there are a few common mistakes you should avoid to ensure your dish is as delicious as possible.

• Using canned corn without rinsing: Always rinse canned corn to remove excess sodium and improve the flavor of your salad.
• Skipping the lime juice: Lime juice adds needed acidity; don’t skip it! It brightens the flavors and balances the creaminess of the dressing.
• Not adjusting seasoning: Taste your salad before serving. You may need extra salt or pepper, so adjust according to your preference.
• Overcooking fresh corn: If using grilled corn, be careful not to overcook it. Fresh corn should be lightly charred for the best taste.
• Neglecting garnish: Garnishing with extra cotija cheese or cilantro enhances presentation and flavor. Don’t forget this final touch!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep separate from any dressing if possible to maintain texture.

Freezing Mexican Corn Salad

• Freezing is not recommended for this salad due to the texture changes in vegetables.
• If you must freeze, store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month.

Reheating Mexican Corn Salad

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 30 seconds, stirring in between until warm.
• Stovetop: Gently reheat in a skillet on medium-low heat, stirring frequently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Mexican corn salad:

What is Mexican Corn Salad?

Mexican corn salad is a refreshing dish made with sweet corn, lime, and spices, often inspired by street food like Esquites.

Can I use frozen corn instead?

Yes! Frozen corn works well; just thaw and drain it before mixing into the salad.

How can I customize my Mexican Corn Salad?

You can add ingredients like black beans, diced bell peppers, or avocado for extra flavor and nutrition.

Is Mexican Corn Salad gluten-free?

Yes! This recipe does not contain any gluten ingredients, making it suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it a few hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Final Thoughts

This Mexican corn salad is not just quick to make but also offers a delightful mix of flavors that will impress at any gathering. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients like beans or different herbs. Give it a try today!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Mexican Corn Salad

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• Author: Lara
• Total Time: 0 hours
• Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x

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Description

Mexican Corn Salad is a vibrant, refreshing dish that captures the essence of summer with its sweet corn, zesty lime dressing, and creamy cotija cheese. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or as a lively side at gatherings. The combination of fresh ingredients like jalapenos and cilantro adds a delightful kick, making it a crowd favorite. Whether served warm or cold, this colorful salad is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, ensuring everyone can enjoy a tasty and healthy option.

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Ingredients

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• 3 cans fire-roasted corn (15 ounces each) or 4 grilled fresh ears of corn
• 5 chopped green onions (green parts only)
• ½ cup crumbled cotija cheese
• ½ cup diced red onion
• ⅓ cup chopped cilantro
• 1 diced jalapeno
• 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 1 clove minced garlic
• Juice of 1 lime (about 2 tablespoons)
• ½ teaspoon chili powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ⅛ teaspoon black pepper

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Instructions

1. In a medium bowl, combine the corn, green onions, cotija cheese, red onion, cilantro, and jalapeno. Mix gently.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, garlic, lime juice, chili powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss to coat all ingredients evenly. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
4. Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve. Top with additional cotija cheese if desired.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: None
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Mixing
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: Approximately ¾ cup (150g)
• Calories: 180
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 210mg
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 6g
• Cholesterol: 5mg