Mexican street corn salad, also known as "elote," is a popular dish in Mexico that has gained popularity in the United States in recent years. This tasty and refreshing salad is the perfect combination of flavors and textures, making it a staple in summer cookouts and gatherings. With its vibrant colors and bold flavors, it's no wonder why this dish has become a favorite among foodies and home cooks alike. In this article, we'll show you how to make a delicious Mexican street corn salad recipe from the comfort of your own kitchen, courtesy of Food Network.
This recipe takes the classic Mexican street food, elote, and transforms it into a flavorful salad that pairs perfectly with beer can chicken. The sweetness of the grilled corn is balanced by the tangy and spicy dressing made with lime juice, chili powder, and cumin. Add in some diced tomatoes, black beans, and avocado for a satisfying and colorful side dish that will impress your guests.
For an extra creamy and rich version of this salad, try adding diced avocado to the mix. The creamy texture of the avocado pairs perfectly with the smoky flavors of the grilled corn and the zesty dressing. Not only does it add a delicious twist to the salad, but it also adds some healthy fats and nutrients to your meal.
If you want to take things up a notch, try making esquites, a popular Mexican street food that is essentially a deconstructed version of elote. Instead of keeping the corn on the cob, the kernels are removed and mixed with the same ingredients as elote, creating a flavorful and easy-to-eat salad. This is a great option for a potluck or BBQ, as it can be served in a large bowl for guests to help themselves.
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(Esquites) Mexican Street Corn Salad
Main Ingredients: Corn, Lime, Chili Powder, Cumin, Smoked Paprika
This variation of the salad adds an extra crunch and depth of flavor with the addition of tortilla chips. Simply crush up some chips and sprinkle them on top of the salad for an extra texture and a hint of saltiness. You can also use this as a topping for the traditional elote, adding a fun twist to the classic street food.
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Spicy Mexican Street Corn Salad
Main Ingredients: Frozen Corn, Olive Oil, Mayonnaise, Feta Cheese
For those who love a bit of heat, this spicy version of the salad is sure to satisfy. The dressing is kicked up a notch with the addition of jalapeno peppers, and you can also add some diced red onion for an extra kick. This is a great option for those who want a little extra flavor and spice in their meal.
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Esquites- Mexican Street Corn Salad
Main Ingredients: Corn, Crema Mexicana, Cotija Cheese, Fresh Cilantro
Another twist on the classic esquites, this version adds some crumbled cotija cheese to the mix. This salty and crumbly cheese is a staple in Mexican cuisine and pairs perfectly with the flavors of the salad. The cheese adds a creamy and tangy element to the dish, making it even more delicious.
In conclusion, while beer can chicken is a delicious and classic summer dish, adding some Mexican Street Corn Salad to the mix can take your meal to the next level. With these six variations, you can switch up the flavors and add some creativity to your next backyard BBQ or summer cookout. So next time you fire up the grill, don't forget to grab some corn and a few cans of beer to try out these tasty recipes.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 6 ears of corn
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup cotija cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup lime juice
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Sea salt and black pepper to taste
Optional ingredients:
- Avocado, diced
- Jalapeño, finely chopped
- Chili powder
Instructions
1. Begin by grilling the corn on a hot grill, turning occasionally until the kernels are slightly charred, about 10 minutes.
2. Once the corn is cool enough to handle, cut the kernels off the cob and place them in a large bowl.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, sour cream, cotija cheese, cilantro, red onion, lime juice, cayenne pepper, and salt and pepper.
4. Pour the mixture over the corn and toss to coat evenly.
5. If desired, add in diced avocado and jalapeño for extra flavor and heat.
6. Sprinkle with chili powder for an extra kick.
7. Serve the Mexican street corn salad immediately or refrigerate for later.
Tips and Tricks
- For a smokier flavor, you can also grill the corn in its husks and then remove them once cooked.
- If you don't have access to a grill, you can also use a stovetop grill pan or broil the corn in the oven.
- To make this dish vegan-friendly, simply substitute the mayonnaise and sour cream with a plant-based alternative.
- If you can't find cotija cheese, you can use feta or queso fresco instead.
- This salad can also be served as a dip with tortilla chips or as a topping for tacos, burritos, or grilled meats.
Final Thoughts
Mexican street corn salad is a simple yet delicious dish that is perfect for summer gatherings or anytime you want to add a touch of Mexican flair to your meals. With its vibrant colors and bold flavors, it's sure to be a hit with your friends and family. Plus, with this easy-to-follow recipe from Food Network, you can enjoy this tasty salad at home anytime. Give it a try and let us know what you think!
![Mexican Street Corn Salad [VIDEO] - Lexi's Clean Kitchen](http://lexiscleankitchen.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/Mexican-Street-Corn-Salad7.jpg)
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