Mexican Corn Salad

Name: Mexican Corn Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-488417H25M15S
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 3 (15 oz) cans fire-roasted corn (or 4 fresh ears of grilled corn); 5 green onions (chopped, green parts only); ½ cup crumbled cotija cheese; ½ cup diced red onion; ⅓ cup chopped cilantro; 1 jalapeno (diced); 3 tablespoons mayonnaise; Juice of 1 lime (about 2 tablespoons); ½ teaspoon chili powder; ¼ teaspoon salt; ⅛ teaspoon black pepper

Published: August 12, 2025

by Saphira

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: This Mexican corn salad takes just 10 minutes to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
Bursting with Flavor: The combination of cotija cheese, lime juice, and fresh vegetables creates a delightful mix of flavors that will awaken your taste buds.
Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it warm or cold; this salad is perfect as a side dish, a dip with tortilla chips, or even as a filling for tacos.
Healthy Ingredients: Packed with fresh vegetables and wholesome ingredients, this salad is not only delicious but also nutritious.
Crowd-Pleaser: Its vibrant colors and unique flavors make it a hit at parties and potlucks, appealing to both kids and adults alike.

Tools and Preparation

To whip up this Mexican corn salad efficiently, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment makes preparation easier and faster.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Medium mixing bowl
Small mixing bowl
Knife
Cutting board
Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

Medium mixing bowl: Ideal for combining all the main ingredients without spilling.
Small mixing bowl: Perfect for whisking together the dressing ingredients.
Knife: Essential for chopping vegetables like green onions and jalapeno safely.
Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for cutting your ingredients.

Ingredients

Ready in only 10 minutes, this Mexican corn salad is topped with cotija cheese and tossed in a creamy lime dressing. It’s inspired by the street food Esquites. This recipe uses canned corn, but you can also use grilled fresh corn.

Ingredients:
– 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
– 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

In a medium bowl, add the following ingredients:
Corn
Green onions
Cotija cheese
Red onion
Cilantro
Jalapeno

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing

In a small bowl, stir together these dressing ingredients:
Mayonnaise
Garlic
Lime juice
Salt
Black pepper

Step 3: Mix Salad and Dressing

Pour the dressing over the salad mixture.
Toss everything together until well coated.
Taste the salad and adjust seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed.

Step 4: Serve

Serve immediately or cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.
Optionally sprinkle more cotija cheese before serving.

Enjoy your delightful Mexican corn salad as part of your meal or as a standalone treat!

How to Serve Mexican Corn Salad

Mexican corn salad is versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a party or looking for a quick lunch, this dish complements many meals. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

As a Standalone Dish

Serve it chilled as a refreshing main dish on hot days.
Pair with tortilla chips for a crunchy snack.

Accompaniment to Grilled Meats

This salad pairs perfectly with grilled chicken or steak, enhancing the smoky flavors.
It adds a fresh contrast to barbecued meats.

Topping for Tacos

Use it as a topping on tacos for added texture and flavor.
The creamy dressing complements spicy fillings beautifully.

Side Salad for Parties

Present it at gatherings as a crowd-pleasing side salad.
Guests will love the vibrant colors and delicious taste.

How to Perfect Mexican Corn Salad

To ensure your Mexican corn salad turns out perfectly every time, follow these simple tips. Each suggestion will help enhance the flavors and presentation of your dish.

Use fresh ingredients: Fresh corn or high-quality canned corn will give the best taste.
Adjust spice levels: Feel free to increase or decrease jalapeno based on your heat preference.
Chill before serving: Allowing the salad to sit in the fridge enhances the flavors as they meld together.
Garnish generously: A sprinkle of extra cotija cheese adds an appealing finish and boosts flavor.
Experiment with herbs: Adding fresh parsley or basil can offer a unique twist.

Best Side Dishes for Mexican Corn Salad

When serving Mexican corn salad, consider pairing it with these delightful side dishes. They complement the flavors of the salad while providing variety to your meal.

Grilled Chicken Skewers: Marinated chicken skewers add protein and are easy to grill alongside your corn salad.
Spicy Black Beans: A flavorful side that adds a hearty element with spices that complement the corn.
Guacamole: Creamy guacamole brings richness and pairs well with the zesty flavors of the salad.
Quesadillas: Cheesy quesadillas are perfect for dipping into the corn salad’s dressing, creating a delicious bite.
Rice and Beans: A classic combination that rounds out any Mexican meal; seasoned rice adds texture alongside the salad.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies provide color and balance, enhancing your plate’s visual appeal and nutrition.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Mexican corn salad is simple, but a few common mistakes can impact its flavor and texture. Avoid these pitfalls to ensure your dish shines.

Using bland corn: Always choose fire-roasted or fresh corn for the best flavor. If using canned corn, drain it well to avoid excess liquid.
Skipping the seasoning: Don’t forget to add salt and pepper! These enhance the ingredients’ natural flavors, so taste and adjust as needed.
Overdressing the salad: Start with a small amount of dressing and mix well. You can always add more, but it’s hard to fix a soggy salad.
Not chilling before serving: Allowing the salad to chill in the refrigerator enhances its flavors. Aim for at least 30 minutes for optimal taste.
Ignoring freshness of ingredients: Use fresh herbs and produce for vibrant flavor. Wilted cilantro or stale onions can ruin your dish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container.
Keeps well for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Mexican Corn Salad

Not recommended as the texture of the ingredients may change once thawed.
If necessary, freeze without dressing and consume within 1 month.

Reheating Mexican Corn Salad

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10 minutes until heated through.
Microwave: Heat on medium power in increments of 30 seconds until warm, stirring in between.
Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat, stirring frequently, until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Mexican Corn Salad?

Mexican corn salad is a flavorful dish made with corn, fresh vegetables, cotija cheese, and a creamy lime dressing. It’s inspired by traditional street food.

Can I use frozen corn instead?

Yes! Frozen corn works well; just make sure to thaw and drain it properly before mixing into your salad.

How do I customize my Mexican Corn Salad?

Feel free to add diced bell peppers, avocado, or even black beans for additional flavor and nutrition. Spice lovers can increase jalapeno for extra heat!

How long does Mexican Corn Salad last?

When stored properly in an airtight container, it will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This Mexican corn salad is perfect for meal prep as it can be made ahead of time and stored for easy access throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

This Mexican corn salad offers a delightful blend of flavors that are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or looking for a quick side dish, this recipe is versatile and customizable. Try adding your favorite ingredients or adjusting spices to make it uniquely yours!