Get ready to take your taste buds on a wild ride with the ultimate summer side dish that'll make your backyard BBQ the talk of the town! This Spicy Mexican Street Corn Salad is like a fiesta in a bowl - bursting with charred corn, creamy mayo, tangy cotija cheese, and a kick of jalapeño that'll have your guests begging for the recipe. Forget boring salads - this is the flavor explosion you've been craving, bringing the vibrant spirit of Mexican street food straight to your plate in just 25 minutes!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 4 ears corn, grilled and kernels removed
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup cotija cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- 1 jalapeño, minced
- 1 lime, juiced
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F) or prepare a grill pan on the stovetop.
- Husk the corn and clean off any remaining silk strands. Brush each ear of corn lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking and enhance grilling.
- Place corn directly on the hot grill grates and cook for 10-12 minutes, rotating every 3-4 minutes to ensure even charring on all sides. The kernels should develop a golden-brown color and slight char marks.
- Remove corn from grill and let cool for 5-7 minutes until comfortable to handle.
- Using a sharp knife, carefully cut kernels off the cob by standing each ear vertically and slicing downward, collecting kernels in a large mixing bowl.
- In the same bowl, add mayonnaise, crumbled cotija cheese, minced jalapeño, chopped cilantro, and fresh lime juice.
- Gently mix all ingredients until corn kernels are evenly coated and ingredients are well combined.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt as needed. For extra heat, add more minced jalapeño.
- Serve immediately at room temperature or chilled, garnished with additional cilantro and a lime wedge if desired.
Tips
- Grill Mastery: For the most authentic flavor, use a charcoal grill if possible. The smoky char is key to capturing that true street corn essence.
- Corn Selection: Choose fresh, in-season corn for the best taste and texture. Look for ears with bright green husks and plump, tightly packed kernels.
- Spice Control: Adjust the jalapeño to your heat preference. Remove the seeds for a milder version, or add extra for serious heat lovers.
- Make-Ahead Magic: While best served fresh, you can prep the ingredients ahead of time and mix just before serving to keep the corn crisp and flavors bright.
- Cheese Tip: If cotija is hard to find, you can substitute with feta cheese for a similar tangy, salty profile.
- Serving Suggestion: For a complete meal, serve alongside grilled meats or as a topping for tacos, adding extra crunch and flavor to your dish.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 220kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 17g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 20mg
