Mexican Street Corn Salad (Elote)

Elote salad is a delightful and refreshing dish that captures the essence of Mexican street food. This Mexican Street Corn Salad (Elote) combines creamy, tangy, sweet, and salty flavors with a hint of spice, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, attending a potluck, or simply looking for a tasty side dish, this vibrant salad is sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of cooking time, you can whip up this delicious salad in no time.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of ingredients creates a unique taste that balances creaminess with zesty lime and savory spices.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a side for tacos, grilled meats, or even as a light main dish on its own.
• Fresh Ingredients: Made with simple, fresh ingredients that are easily accessible at your local grocery store.
• Crowd-Pleaser: This salad is sure to be a hit at gatherings and parties, appealing to both adults and kids alike.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Mexican Street Corn Salad (Elote), you’ll need a few essential tools to ensure smooth preparation and cooking.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill or large skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill or large skillet: Essential for cooking the corn perfectly, adding that sought-after charred flavor that defines elote.
• Mixing bowl: A spacious bowl allows you to combine ingredients easily without making a mess.
• Knife: A sharp knife is crucial for cutting corn kernels off the cob cleanly.

Ingredients

For the Corn Base

• 4 ears corn
• 2 tbsp butter

For the Salad Mix

• 1/4 cup red onion (minced)
• 1/4 cup cotija cheese (crumbled)
• 3 tbsp sour cream (or crema)
• 2 tbsp mayo

For the Seasoning

• 1/4 tsp cumin
• 1/4 tsp chili powder
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1/8 tsp cayenne (optional)

For Garnishing

• 1/4 cup cilantro (chopped)
• 2 tbsp lime juice (about 1 lime)

How to Make Mexican Street Corn Salad (Elote)

Step 1: Grill or Sauté the Corn

1. If grilling: Brush the corn with melted butter. Grill on medium heat for 8-10 minutes until all sides are slightly charred.
2. If using stovetop: Cut off the corn kernels first. Heat a large skillet over 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 2: Combine Ingredients

1. In a mixing bowl, combine sour cream, mayo, cumin, chili powder, black pepper, paprika, and cayenne if using.
2. Add in grilled or sautéed corn along with minced red onion and crumbled cotija cheese.

Step 3: Final Touches

1. Drizzle lime juice over your mixture and toss gently to combine all ingredients well.
2. Garnish with chopped cilantro before serving warm.

This Mexican Street Corn Salad (Elote) is sure to add flavor and excitement to your meals! Enjoy!

How to Serve Mexican Street Corn Salad (Elote)

Mexican Street Corn Salad (Elote) is not just a dish; it’s an experience. This vibrant salad can be enjoyed in various ways, making it perfect for any occasion. Here are some serving suggestions that will elevate your culinary adventure.

As a Side Dish

• Pair it with grilled chicken or beef for a delightful balance of flavors.
• Serve alongside tacos for a refreshing contrast to savory fillings.

On a Buffet Table

• Present it in a large bowl with colorful toppings on the side, inviting guests to customize their servings.
• Add it to a summer barbecue spread for a bright, flavorful addition.

In Lettuce Wraps

• Use large lettuce leaves to create fresh wraps filled with elote salad for a light and healthy option.
• Top with avocado slices for added creaminess and nutrition.

As a Topping

• Use it as a topping for nachos, adding crunch and zest to each bite.
• Sprinkle over baked potatoes for an exciting twist on comfort food.

How to Perfect Mexican Street Corn Salad (Elote)

To ensure your Mexican Street Corn Salad shines at every gathering, consider these helpful tips. They will enhance the flavor and presentation of your dish.

• Choose Fresh Corn: Fresh corn will provide the best sweetness and texture. If using canned or frozen corn, make sure it’s high-quality.
• Grill for Extra Flavor: Grilling the corn adds a smoky depth that elevates the dish. Don’t skip this step!
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste the mixture before serving and adjust spices according to your preference. A bit more lime juice can brighten flavors even more.
• Chill Before Serving: Letting the salad sit in the fridge for about 30 minutes allows flavors to meld beautifully.
• Use Quality Cheese: Cotija cheese adds authentic flavor; however, you can substitute with feta if needed. Ensure it’s crumbled well for even distribution.
• Garnish Generously: Finish with fresh cilantro or extra lime wedges on top for visual appeal and added freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Mexican Street Corn Salad (Elote)

When planning your meal, consider these side dishes that complement Mexican Street Corn Salad perfectly. Each one adds its unique flair while harmonizing with the salad’s flavors.

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Marinated chicken skewers provide protein and pair wonderfully with the creamy salad.
2. Black Bean Tacos: Loaded with flavor, these tacos are plant-based and work great alongside elote salad.
3. Avocado Rice: Creamy avocado rice brings richness that balances the tanginess of the salad.
4. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful stuffed peppers filled with quinoa or rice add hearty elements to your meal.
5. Chili Lime Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with chili powder mirror the spices in elote salad.
6. Cucumber Tomato Salad: A light cucumber and tomato salad offers refreshment that complements the richness of the elote dish.
7. Zucchini Fritters: Crispy fritters made from zucchini provide a crunchy texture that’s delightful next to creamy salads.
8. Corn Tortilla Chips: Serve these as an appetizer; they can also scoop up elote salad if you’re feeling adventurous!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Mexican Street Corn Salad (Elote) can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Overcooking the corn: Cooking corn too long can make it tough. Grill or sauté just until lightly charred or browned for the best texture.
• Skipping the cheese: Cotija cheese adds flavor and creaminess. If you omit it, the salad may lack depth. Use a similar cheese if cotija is unavailable.
• Neglecting seasoning: Not adding enough spices can result in blandness. Taste as you mix and adjust the seasonings to your liking.
• Using old ingredients: Fresh corn and herbs are key to vibrant flavors. Always check for freshness to enhance your dish.
• Forgetting lime juice: Lime juice balances the richness of the salad. Don’t skip it; fresh lime is essential for that zesty kick.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Mexican Street Corn Salad in an airtight container.
• It will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Mexican Street Corn Salad (Elote)

• Freezing is not recommended due to the texture changes of the corn and dressing.
• If you must freeze, use a freezer-safe container and consume within 1 month.

Reheating Mexican Street Corn Salad (Elote)

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 30 seconds, stirring in between until warm.
• Stovetop: Warm gently over medium heat, stirring frequently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Mexican Street Corn Salad (Elote).

What is Mexican Street Corn Salad (Elote)?

Mexican Street Corn Salad, known as Elote, is a vibrant side dish featuring grilled corn mixed with creamy dressing, spices, and fresh herbs.

Can I make Mexican Street Corn Salad ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare it a few hours in advance. Just keep it refrigerated until ready to serve.

How can I customize my Mexican Street Corn Salad?

Feel free to add diced peppers for extra crunch or substitute different cheeses based on your preference for a unique twist.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This salad makes an excellent addition to meal prep as it stores well and pairs nicely with various main dishes.

Final Thoughts

Mexican Street Corn Salad (Elote) is a delicious blend of flavors and textures that makes it a delightful side dish for any meal. Its versatility allows you to customize the ingredients according to your taste preferences. Give this recipe a try; you’ll love how easy it is to whip up!

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

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Mexican Street Corn Salad (Elote)

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• Author: Saphira
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6

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Description

Mexican Street Corn Salad, or Elote, is a vibrant and refreshing dish that encapsulates the flavors of Mexican street food. This creamy and zesty salad features grilled corn, fresh herbs, and a blend of spices that create an irresistible combination. Perfect for summer barbecues, potlucks, or as a delightful side dish to complement your favorite grilled meats, this salad is sure to impress guests of all ages. With its quick preparation time and simple ingredients, you can whip up this crowd-pleaser in no time.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 ears corn
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1/4 cup red onion (minced)
• 3 tbsp sour cream
• 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

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Instructions

1. Grill or sauté the corn: Brush with melted butter and grill on medium heat for about 8-10 minutes until charred. Alternatively, cut kernels off the cob, sauté in a skillet over medium-high heat with melted butter for about 5-8 minutes.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine sour cream, mayo, cumin, chili powder, black pepper, paprika, and cayenne if using.
3. Add grilled or sautéed corn along with minced red onion to the bowl.
4. Drizzle with lime juice and toss gently to combine.
5. Garnish with chopped cilantro before serving warm.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 180
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 300mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 5g
• Cholesterol: 15mg