This Mexican Corn Salad is a colorful and tasty dish perfect for any meal! It mixes sweet corn with fresh veggies like bell peppers and red onions, giving it a nice crunch!
I love to add a squeeze of lime juice on top; it makes everything pop. This salad is a great side, and I often enjoy it with tacos—talk about a fiesta in my mouth! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Corn: Fresh corn offers the best flavor, especially if grilled for that wonderful char. Frozen corn is a great choice too if fresh isn’t available—just make sure to thaw and sauté it quickly to keep it crisp!
Cotija Cheese: This cheese adds an authentic touch with its crumbly texture. If you can’t find it, feta cheese can stand in well. It has a similar saltiness and creaminess, making it a good substitute.
Red Onion: It brings a nice sharpness to the salad. You can use sweet onions if you prefer a milder taste. Just remember that red onion adds a pop of color too!
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro gives a vibrant taste, but if you’re not a fan, parsley works too. Just keep in mind that the flavors will change slightly without the distinct freshness of cilantro.
Jalapeño: This adds heat, but feel free to leave it out if you’re looking for a milder dish. For a spicy kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper instead.
How Can I Achieve the Perfect Char on Corn?
Getting that perfect char on corn boosts the flavor significantly. Here’s how to do it right:
- For fresh corn, peel the husks and silk off. Grill over medium-high heat or sauté in a skillet for about 5-7 minutes. Look for golden-brown spots.
- For frozen corn, heat it in a skillet over medium-high heat without overcrowding. Sauté for about 5 minutes until heated and slightly toasted, stirring occasionally.
Keep a close eye on it to avoid burning—it should be just charred for the best taste!
How to Make Mexican Corn Salad?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Fresh Ingredients:
- 4 cups corn (fresh or frozen, thawed if frozen)
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup green onions, sliced
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional, for heat)
Creamy and Flavorful Additions:
- 1 cup cotija cheese, crumbled (can substitute with feta cheese)
- 2 limes, juiced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful Mexican Corn Salad takes about 15-20 minutes to prepare. If you let it chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes, the flavors will become even more delicious, making it perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying on a sunny day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Corn:
If you’re using fresh corn, grill or sautĂ© it in a skillet until it’s slightly charred, which will take around 5-7 minutes. If you’re using frozen corn, just sautĂ© it until heated through, making sure it retains a crisp texture. Set the cooked corn aside to cool.
2. Mix the Fresh Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, add the corn (once cooled), crumbled cotija cheese, finely chopped red onion, sliced green onions, freshly chopped cilantro, and minced jalapeño if you want a little kick. Gently stir everything together to combine.
3. Whisk Together the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the fresh lime juice, olive oil, chili powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. This dressing adds a zesty flavor to your salad, so make sure it’s well mixed!
4. Combine and Season:
Pour the lime dressing over the corn mixture and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly. Taste the salad and feel free to adjust the seasoning! Add more salt, pepper, or lime juice if you think it needs a little something extra.
5. Chill and Serve:
You can serve your Mexican Corn Salad right away, or for the best flavor, let it chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This allows all the wonderful flavors to meld. Enjoy your tasty salad with friends and family!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the salad up to a day in advance. Just mix all the ingredients (except for the avocado, if using) and refrigerate. For the best flavor, let it chill for at least 30 minutes before serving, but try to enjoy it within 24 hours for optimal freshness!
What Can I Use Instead of Cotija Cheese?
If you can’t find cotija cheese, feta is a great substitute since it has a similar saltiness and crumbly texture. You could also try goat cheese for a creamier option, although it will change the flavor profile slightly.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep it tasting fresh, try not to mix the dressing until you’re ready to serve. If it looks a little dry after storing, just add a splash of lime juice or olive oil before enjoying it again!
Can I Add More Ingredients to This Salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in diced bell peppers, avocado, or even black beans for added flavor and nutrition. Just keep in mind that additional ingredients might change the overall flavor, so adjust the seasoning accordingly!
