Description
Zesty Mexican corn salad combines fresh ingredients with bold, tangy flavors that dance across your palate. Crisp vegetables and creamy dressing create a refreshing side dish perfect for summer gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
- 5 ears fresh corn (approximately 4 cups when kernels are removed)
- 3/4 cup crumbled Mexican cheese (queso fresco or Cotija)
- 2 tbsps mayonnaise
- 2 tbsps sour cream
- 1 1/2 tbsps olive oil or butter
- 1/4 cup finely chopped cilantro
- 1 large lime (zest and 2 tbsps juice)
- 1 large garlic clove (minced)
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Kosher salt (to taste)
Instructions
- Char corn kernels in a skillet over medium-high heat for 5-6 minutes, creating a golden-brown caramelized texture. Briefly sauté minced garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant, then remove from heat.
- Whisk together creamy dressing components – mayonnaise, sour cream, lime zest, and lime juice – creating a tangy base. Incorporate chili powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper for a complex flavor profile.
- Gently fold roasted corn kernels into the zesty dressing, ensuring complete and even coating. Mix in crumbled cheese and fresh cilantro, distributing ingredients thoroughly.
- Adjust seasoning with kosher salt and additional lime juice to enhance brightness. Taste and balance flavors carefully.
- Serve warm immediately for optimal texture and flavor, or chill for a refreshing alternative. If refrigerating, add a final citrus splash just before presenting to revive the salad’s vibrant taste.
Notes
- Toast corn kernels in a skillet to develop a deeper, nuttier flavor profile that elevates the entire dish.
- Adjust spice levels by experimenting with different chili powders or adding fresh jalapeños for extra heat.
- Consider using Greek yogurt as a healthier alternative to sour cream without compromising the creamy texture.
- Customize the salad by adding diced red bell peppers or green onions for extra crunch and color variation.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 230 kcal
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 210 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 20 mg