Crave-worthy mexican street corn kale salad Full of Flavor

Why You’ll Love Mexican Street Corn Salad

There’s something magical about the smoky, creamy, and zesty flavors of Mexican street corn salad. It’s the kind of dish that instantly transports you to a bustling street corner in Mexico, where the scent of grilled corn mingles with lime, chili, and fresh herbs. Whether you’re planning a summer cookout, a Cinco de Mayo celebration, or just want to shake up your weekday lunch routine, this salad is a total crowd-pleaser.

What makes this salad extra special is its balance. You get the sweetness of corn, the tang of lime, the richness of cotija cheese, and a little kick from jalapeño. It’s bold, fresh, and satisfying without being heavy. And if you’re already a fan of healthy Mexican options, this one’s going to be a new favorite.

Plus, it’s incredibly versatile. Serve it warm or chilled, as a side or a main, and even toss it over greens for a street corn kale salad twist. However you enjoy it, this dish brings sunshine to your table.

Ingredients to make elote salad

Here’s everything you’ll need to bring this elote salad to life. Each ingredient plays a key role in building layers of flavor and texture.

• 3 cups fresh corn kernels (from about 4 ears of corn) – Fresh corn gives the best flavor and texture, but frozen works in a pinch.
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil – Helps char the corn and adds richness.
• 1/3 cup mayonnaise – The creamy base that binds everything together.
• 1/4 cup sour cream – Adds tang and smoothness.
• 1/2 cup cotija cheese, crumbled – Salty and crumbly, this cheese is essential for authentic flavor.
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped – Brings brightness and freshness.
• 1 clove garlic, minced – Adds depth and aroma.
• 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice – For that zesty citrus punch.
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder – Adds warmth and spice.
• Salt and pepper, to taste – Essential for seasoning.
• 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional) – For a smoky kick.
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced – Adds crunch and sharpness.
• 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped – Brings the heat!

Time needed to make grilled corn kale salad

Making this grilled corn kale salad inspired dish is quick and easy. Here’s how the time breaks down:

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes

It’s a great last-minute side dish or a fast lunch option. If you’re in a rush but still want something flavorful and satisfying, this is your go-to. For more quick-prep ideas, check out this healthy pasta salad that’s also ready in a flash.

Quick Steps to Make cotija corn kale salad

Step 1

Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the corn kernels and cook, stirring occasionally, until they’re lightly charred and caramelized, about 8–10 minutes. Let cool slightly.

Step 2

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, garlic, lime juice, chili powder, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.

Step 3

Stir in the cooked corn, making sure it’s evenly coated with the dressing.

Step 4

Add in the cotija cheese, red onion, jalapeño, and cilantro. Mix until well combined.

Step 5

Taste and adjust seasoning with more lime juice, salt, or chili powder if desired.

Step 6

Refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to let the flavors meld, or serve immediately for a warm version.

Step 7

Garnish with an extra sprinkle of cotija and chili powder just before serving, if desired.

Pro Tips & Tasty Tweaks

Want to make your Mexican corn kale slaw even better? Here are a few tips:

• Use fresh corn when possible. It gives the best texture and sweetness.
• Don’t skip the char – that smoky flavor is key.
• Make it ahead – it tastes even better after chilling for a bit.
• Spice it up with extra jalapeño or a dash of cayenne if you like heat.
• Swap cotija with feta if you can’t find it locally.

Is mexican street corn salad healthy and nutritious ?

Yes, Mexican street corn salad can be a nutritious addition to your meal plan, especially when enjoyed in moderation. It’s packed with fiber, protein, and essential vitamins from the corn, cheese, and fresh herbs.

Here’s a rough breakdown per serving (based on 6 servings):

• Calories: ~220
• Protein: 6g
• Fat: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 2g

The cotija cheese and sour cream add richness, but you can adjust the amounts to suit your dietary needs. If you’re looking for more veggie-packed options, this farmers market roasted tomato salad is another great choice.

For a refreshing pairing, try this green lemonade smoothie to balance the richness of the salad.

Looking for more healthy salad ideas? This healthy tuna salad is another protein-packed option, and the chickpea salad is a fiber-rich favorite.

Can I make mexican street corn salad healthier and still delicious?

Absolutely! There are plenty of ways to make this dish lighter without sacrificing flavor. Here are a few smart swaps:

• Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for added protein and fewer calories.
• Light mayo or avocado-based mayo can reduce fat content.
• Skip the cheese or use a reduced-fat version if you’re watching sodium or fat.
• Add kale or cabbage to turn it into a street corn kale salad for extra fiber and nutrients.

For more lightened-up dishes, check out this cottage cheese cauliflower thins recipe or this collection of healthy apple recipes.

Need more veggie-forward inspiration? Try this kale cauliflower salad or the cucumber tomato salad for refreshing alternatives.

How to Serve mexican street corn salad?

This salad is incredibly versatile. Here are a few delicious ways to serve it:

• As a side dish with grilled meats like this cilantro lime chicken.
• On tacos as a topping for added crunch and flavor.
• With chips as a dip at parties.
• Over greens to create a cotija corn kale salad bowl.
• Alongside seafood like this shrimp cocktail.

Pair it with a refreshing drink or a light dessert like this protein strawberry pretzel salad.

For more Mexican-inspired pairings, try these Mexican cornbread or this stuffed sweet potato recipe.

Avoid These Mistakes

Even simple recipes can go sideways. Here are a few common mistakes to avoid when making Mexican street corn salad:

• Not charring the corn – That smoky flavor is essential. Don’t skip this step!
• Overdressing the salad – Add dressing gradually and taste as you go.
• Using canned corn – It works in a pinch, but fresh or frozen gives better texture.
• Not letting it chill – The flavors really come together after a short rest in the fridge.

Need more salad tips? This Snickers salad protein bowl is another fun twist on traditional salads. Or try this apple-based recipe collection for more ideas.

For more salad inspiration, check out this elote corn salad or the creamy cucumber salad.

The best way to store leftover mexican street corn salad

Got leftovers? Here’s how to keep your Mexican street corn salad fresh and tasty:

• Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Do not freeze – the texture of the mayo and cheese won’t hold up well.
• Stir before serving – the dressing may separate slightly in the fridge.

Want more make-ahead ideas? This Cinco de Mayo recipe guide has great prep-ahead dishes. Or try this green smoothie for a refreshing next-day pairing.

For more corn-based recipes, check out this Mexican corn salad or this cornbread salad that also stores well.

Ready to give mexican street corn salad a try?

Whether you’re a longtime fan of elote or just discovering the magic of Mexican street corn salad, this recipe is a must-try. It’s quick, flavorful, and endlessly adaptable. You can serve it warm or cold, as a side or a main, and even turn it into a grilled corn kale salad for a hearty twist.

Don’t forget to explore more delicious ideas like this healthy pasta salad, the refreshing protein strawberry pretzel salad, or the savory cilantro lime chicken for a full meal experience.

Now it’s your turn—grab those fresh ears of corn and get cooking!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen corn works well if fresh isn’t available. Just make sure to thaw and dry it before charring in the skillet to avoid excess moisture.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, this salad is naturally gluten-free as it contains no wheat, pasta, or flour. Just double-check your mayo and sour cream labels to ensure they’re certified gluten-free.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, it tastes even better after chilling for a few hours. Just give it a good stir before serving and add fresh garnishes if desired.

What can I use instead of cotija cheese?

If you can’t find cotija, feta is a great substitute. It has a similar salty, crumbly texture and works beautifully in this salad.

How spicy is this salad?

It has a mild kick from the jalapeño and chili powder, but you can adjust the heat to your liking. Remove the seeds for less spice or add more for extra heat.

You May Also Love

• Snickers Salad Protein Bowl
• Farmers Market Roasted Tomato Salad
• Healthy Mexican Options for Cinco de Mayo
• Healthy Pasta Salad
• Protein Strawberry Pretzel Salad
• Cottage Cheese Cauliflower Thins
• Shrimp Cocktail