Spread the love

Classic Mexican Street Corn Salad – Elotes Style Recipe

Name: Classic Mexican Street Corn Salad - Elotes Style Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 6 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels (about 8 ears); 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 1/4 cup sour cream or Mexican crema; 1/2 cup crumbled cotija cheese; 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh cilantro; 2 tablespoons finely chopped red onion; 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional); 1 clove garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; Lime wedges for serving

Colorful Mexican street corn salad in a bowl with fresh ingredients

This vibrant Mexican street corn salad brings all the authentic flavors of traditional elotes in an easy-to-serve salad format. Perfect for summer gatherings, potlucks, or as a flavorful side dish, this recipe combines sweet corn with creamy dressing, zesty lime, and crumbled cotija cheese for an irresistible taste experience.

What makes this salad special is how it captures the essence of Mexican street food while being perfectly suited for home cooking. The combination of charred corn, creamy sauce, and fresh herbs creates a dish that’s both comforting and refreshing—a true crowd-pleaser that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Ingredients

6 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels (about 8 ears)
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup sour cream or Mexican crema
1/2 cup crumbled cotija cheese
2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
1 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/4 cup finely chopped fresh cilantro
2 tablespoons finely chopped red onion
1 jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional)
1 clove garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Lime wedges for serving

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Corn

If using fresh corn, shuck the ears and remove the kernels. For frozen corn, thaw completely and pat dry. For authentic flavor, you can grill the corn on a hot grill or cook in a cast-iron skillet until slightly charred, about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 2: Make the Dressing

In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, smoked paprika, and minced garlic until smooth and well combined.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Add the cooked corn to the dressing mixture along with chopped cilantro, red onion, and jalapeño (if using). Gently fold everything together until the corn is evenly coated with the creamy dressing.

Step 4: Add Cheese and Season

Fold in most of the crumbled cotija cheese, reserving some for garnish. Season with salt and pepper to taste. The cotija cheese adds a salty, tangy flavor that perfectly balances the sweet corn.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Before serving, garnish with remaining cotija cheese, extra cilantro, and lime wedges on the side.

Expert Tips

For the best flavor, use fresh corn when it’s in season. The sweetness of fresh corn makes a significant difference.
If you prefer a lighter version, you can use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.
This salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken dishes or as part of a larger Mexican-inspired meal.
Make ahead tip: You can prepare this salad up to a day in advance—the flavors actually improve with time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! This salad actually tastes better when made a few hours ahead, as the flavors have time to meld together. Store it covered in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

What can I use instead of cotija cheese?

If you can’t find cotija cheese, feta cheese makes a good substitute. While the flavor profile is slightly different, it still provides that salty, crumbly texture that works so well in this salad.

Is this salad spicy?

The spice level can be adjusted to your preference. The chili powder provides mild heat, and the jalapeño is optional. For a milder version, omit the jalapeño or remove the seeds thoroughly. For more heat, leave some seeds in or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.

What main dishes pair well with this corn salad?

This versatile salad complements many pasta dishes and works wonderfully alongside roasted vegetable sides. It’s also perfect with grilled meats or as part of a taco bar setup.

This Mexican street corn salad is sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Its bright flavors, creamy texture, and vibrant colors make it perfect for any occasion—from weeknight dinners to special celebrations. Enjoy the taste of authentic Mexican street food right in your own kitchen!