🌽 Mexican Street Corn Salad (Elote-Inspired) – Bold, Creamy, and Addictively Delicious!
If you’re craving a side dish that’s bursting with bold flavor, creamy texture, and just the right amount of heat, this Mexican Street Corn Salad is calling your name! Inspired by traditional elote, this off-the-cob version is perfect for potlucks, BBQs, taco nights, or just when you want to spice up your weekly dinner menu.
🔥 Why You’ll Love This Fire-Roasted Corn Salad
This salad takes everything you love about Mexican street corn – the smoky char, creamy tang, and kick of spice – and transforms it into a scoopable, shareable side that’s super easy to make. It’s made with fire-roasted corn, fresh herbs, jalapeños, and a rich, chili-lime dressing. Topped with smoked paprika, every bite is loaded with smoky, spicy, zesty flavor.
🛒 Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 cups fire-roasted corn (fresh, frozen, or canned – just char it in a pan or grill!)
- 2 jalapeños, finely diced (remove seeds for less heat)
- 2 green onions, sliced
- ¼ red onion, finely chopped
- ½ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- Juice of 2 limes
- 1/2 tbsp chili powder
- 2 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated cotija cheese
- salt and pepper to taste
- Smoked paprika for garnish
🥣 How to Make Mexican Street Corn Salad
- Fire it up: If using fresh or frozen corn, char it in a hot skillet or on the grill until golden brown and smoky. Let cool slightly.
- Mix it up: In a large bowl, combine corn, jalapeños, green onion, red onion, and cilantro.
- Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together mayo, lime juice, chili powder, garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Combine: Pour the dressing over the corn mixture and toss until everything is well-coated.
- Finish strong: Sprinkle with smoked paprika and extra cilantro for that pop of flavor and color.
- Chill or serve immediately: It’s great warm or cold – your choice!
🧡 Tips for Next-Level Flavor
- Make it a meal: Add grilled shrimp, chicken, or black beans to turn this side into a hearty main dish.
- Prep ahead: This salad tastes even better after sitting for an hour in the fridge, making it a great make-ahead option!
🌮 What to Serve With Mexican Street Corn Salad
This vibrant salad pairs beautifully with:
- Grilled steak or carne asada
- Tacos of all kinds
- BBQ ribs or chicken
- Quesadillas or enchiladas
- As a dip with tortilla chips!
📌 Final Thoughts
This Mexican Street Corn Salad is everything you love about elote – bold, creamy, spicy, and tangy – in a refreshing, easy-to-serve format. It’s a crowd-pleaser that brings the flavor of Mexican street food right to your table in under 20 minutes.
Pin it, share it, and make it – your next fiesta isn’t complete without this dish!
