Get ready to experience a taste of Mexico with this vibrant and incredibly flavorful Elote (Mexican Street Corn Salad) recipe! Forget bland salads – this dish bursts with the sweet and smoky char of grilled corn, creamy mayonnaise, and a zesty blend of cotija cheese, lime juice, and chili powder. It's the perfect balance of textures and tastes, capturing the essence of the beloved Mexican street food in a refreshing, easy-to-make salad. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a culinary novice, this recipe is guaranteed to impress.
This Elote salad is incredibly versatile; it's equally delicious as a side dish, a light lunch, or a vibrant topping for grilled meats or fish. The recipe is easily customizable to your spice preference, allowing you to adjust the chili powder to your liking. Ready to transform ordinary corn into an extraordinary culinary experience? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions below!
Tools Needed
- Grill
- Aluminum foil
- Sharp knife
- Mixing bowl
- Serving dish (optional)
Ingredients
- Shucked corn: 6 ears
- Mayonnaise: 1/4 cup
- Mexican crema (or sour cream): 1/4 cup
- Chili powder: 1/2 teaspoon
- Salt: 1/4 teaspoon
- Cotija cheese (or queso fresco): 1/2 cup
- Cilantro: Freshly chopped, amount to taste
- Mexican hot sauce: Optional, to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Corn
- Wrap each corn cob in aluminum foil and grill for 15 minutes, rotating every 5 minutes. Alternatively, roast in a 400°F oven for 15 minutes, or cut kernels off and roast in a skillet.
Step 2. Cut Kernels and Combine with Sauce
- Once cool enough to handle, use a sharp knife to cut all the kernels off the cob. (You can skip grilling and cutting step by cutting kernels off the cob directly).
- Transfer kernels to a mixing bowl. Add mayonnaise, Mexican crema, chili powder, and salt. Stir well.
Step 3. Add Cheese
- Stir in half of the cotija cheese.
Step 4. Serve and Garnish
- Transfer to a serving dish (optional). Top with remaining cotija cheese, chopped cilantro, and optional Mexican hot sauce.
Read more: Easy Mexican Macaroni Salad Recipe (Cold Salad)
Tips
- Adjust cooking time based on your preference for corn doneness.
- You can use a skillet to cook the kernels if you don't have a grill or oven.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I make this Elote salad ahead of time?
Yes! It's best made a few hours in advance to allow the flavors to meld. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
2. What can I substitute for cotija cheese?
If you can't find cotija, feta or queso fresco are good substitutes. Parmesan cheese can also work in a pinch, but it won't have the same distinct flavor.
This Elote salad recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, bringing the bright and bold flavors of Mexico right to your table. With its simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, it's a recipe you'll return to again and again. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy the deliciousness of homemade Mexican street corn salad!