Description
A vibrant Mexican street corn salad made with smoky grilled corn, creamy dressing, tangy lime, Cotija cheese, and fresh cilantro. Inspired by classic elote flavors, this easy side dish is bright, creamy, and perfect for summer meals or barbecues.
Ingredients
- 6 ears fresh corn, shucked
- 1/4 cup sour cream (or Mexican crema)
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise (optional)
- Juice of 2 limes
- 1 medium garlic clove, finely grated
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (Ancho chili powder recommended)
- 1/4 cup Cotija cheese, finely crumbled
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, or to taste
- Extra Cotija cheese for garnish
- Extra chopped cilantro for garnish
- Lime wedges for serving
- Optional: TajÃn or cayenne pepper for heat
Instructions
1. Preheat the grill to high heat.
2. Place the shucked corn directly on the grill grates and cook, turning every couple of minutes, until charred in spots on all sides, about 2 to 3 minutes per side.
3. Remove the corn from the grill and let it cool slightly until safe to handle.
4. Stand each ear upright on a cutting board or in a large bowl and carefully slice the kernels off the cob using a sharp knife.
5. Transfer the corn kernels to a large mixing bowl.
6. Add sour cream, mayonnaise (if using), lime juice, grated garlic, chopped cilantro, chili powder, and Cotija cheese.
7. Stir gently until everything is well combined and evenly coated.
8. Season with kosher salt to taste, adjusting lime juice or chili powder if desired.
9. Transfer the salad to a serving bowl and garnish with extra Cotija cheese, cilantro, and lime wedges.
10. Sprinkle with TajÃn or cayenne pepper if you want additional heat and serve immediately.
Notes
If you don’t have a grill, cook the corn in a grill pan or broil it in the oven until lightly charred.
Feta cheese can be used as a substitute if Cotija cheese is unavailable.
Taste before adding extra salt since Cotija cheese is naturally salty.
This salad can be made slightly ahead of time, but it tastes best when served fresh and slightly warm.
For extra flavor, add diced jalapeño or a pinch of smoked paprika.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 260mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 15mg