Preparation Details
– Preparation time: 10 minutes
– Cooking time: 10–12 minutes
– Total time: 22 minutes
– Servings: 6–8
– Difficulty: Easy
– Cuisine: Mexican-inspired
– Cooking method: Stovetop
Ingredients
For the Corn
– 5 cups sweet corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– ¼ teaspoon salt
– ¼ teaspoon black pepper
For the Creamy Dressing
– ½ cup mayonnaise
– ½ cup sour cream
– ¼ cup Mexican crema
– 1 cup Cotija cheese, crumbled
– 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon Tajín seasoning
– ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
– 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, finely chopped
For Garnishing
– ¼ cup additional crumbled Cotija cheese
– 1 teaspoon Tajín seasoning
– Fresh chopped cilantro
– Lime wedges
– Extra chili powder, if desired
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Corn
1. If using frozen corn, thaw it completely.
2. If using canned corn, drain and rinse thoroughly.
3. If using fresh corn, remove the husks and cut the kernels from the cob.
4. Pat the corn dry with a clean kitchen towel.
Step 2: Cook the Corn
1. Place a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add 2 tablespoons unsalted butter.
3. Allow the butter to melt.
4. Add the sweet corn kernels.
5. Sprinkle with salt and black pepper.
6. Cook for approximately 8–10 minutes.
7. Stir occasionally until the corn is tender and lightly golden.
8. For extra smoky flavor, allow some kernels to develop a little char.
9. Remove from heat and let cool for 5 minutes.
Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Dressing
In a large mixing bowl, combine:
1. Mayonnaise.
2. Sour cream.
3. Mexican crema.
4. Fresh lime juice.
5. Chili powder.
6. Tajín seasoning.
7. Garlic powder.
Whisk everything together until smooth and creamy.
The dressing should be thick, tangy, and flavorful.
Step 4: Add the Cotija Cheese
1. Add 1 cup crumbled Cotija cheese to the dressing.
2. Add chopped fresh cilantro.
3. Stir gently.
4. Taste and adjust the seasoning.
5. Add extra lime juice if you prefer a tangier flavor.
6. Add more Tajín if you enjoy extra spice.
Step 5: Combine the Corn and Dressing
1. Add the slightly cooled corn to the dressing.
2. Mix thoroughly using a large spoon.
3. Make sure every corn kernel is coated.
4. Stir gently to distribute the cheese and cilantro evenly.
5. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
Step 6: Chill the Salad
1. Cover the mixing bowl.
2. Refrigerate for 15–20 minutes.
3. Allow the flavors to blend.
4. Stir gently before serving.
For a warm version, serve immediately without chilling.
Step 7: Assemble Individual Corn Cups
1. Prepare 6–8 clear serving cups.
2. Spoon the creamy corn mixture into each cup.
3. Fill each cup generously.
4. Sprinkle additional Cotija cheese on top.
5. Add a light dusting of Tajín seasoning.
6. Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro.
7. Add a lime wedge to each serving.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the Mexican street corn salad chilled or slightly warm.
For the best flavor, squeeze fresh lime juice over each cup just before eating.
Nutrition Information
Estimated values per serving, based on 8 servings.
Nutrient Amount
Calories 285 kcal
Protein 8 g
Carbohydrates 25 g
Total Fat 18 g
Saturated Fat 7 g
Fiber 3 g
Sugar 6 g
Cholesterol 35 mg
Sodium 520 mg
Potassium 260 mg
Nut Information (Q/S)
No added nuts
This Mexican street corn salad contains no intentionally added nuts.
Nut type Amount
Almonds 0 g
Walnuts 0 g
Cashews 0 g
Pecans 0 g
Pistachios 0 g
Peanuts 0 g
Hazelnuts 0 g
Macadamia nuts 0 g
Allergen Information:
– Contains dairy from butter, sour cream, Mexican crema, and Cotija cheese.
– May contain eggs from mayonnaise.
– No peanuts or tree nuts are intentionally added.
– Check packaged ingredients for possible cross-contamination.
Helpful Tips for the Best Mexican Street Corn Salad
1. Char the corn: Lightly browning the corn creates authentic street-corn flavor.
2. Use fresh lime: Fresh lime juice makes the dressing brighter.
3. Don’t skip Cotija: It provides a delicious salty, crumbly texture.
4. Adjust the spice: Add extra Tajín or chili powder for more heat.
5. Keep the dressing creamy: Add a little extra Mexican crema if needed.
6. Use fresh cilantro: It adds wonderful freshness.
7. Serve in clear cups: Individual cups make a beautiful party presentation.
Storage Instructions
– Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
– Best flavor: Enjoy within 24–48 hours.
– Freezing: Not recommended because the creamy dressing may separate.
– Serving: Keep refrigerated until ready to serve.
– Leftovers: Stir gently before serving again.
Serving Suggestions
– Grilled chicken
– Beef tacos
– Chicken enchiladas
– BBQ ribs
– Grilled shrimp
– Burgers
– Nachos
– Mexican rice
– Quesadillas
Final Result
Beautiful golden corn kernels coated in a thick, creamy, tangy dressing, loaded with salty Cotija cheese, fresh cilantro, chili seasoning, and bright lime flavor.
Every spoonful is sweet, creamy, zesty, slightly spicy, and absolutely delicious!
A perfect Mexican-inspired side dish for BBQs, summer parties, potlucks, and family gatherings!