Vibrant Mexican Street Corn Salad
Highlighted under: Global Flavors
Experience the taste of summer with this refreshing Mexican Street Corn Salad, featuring charred corn, creamy avocado, zesty lime, and a sprinkle of cotija cheese. This colorful dish combines sweet and savory flavors, making it a perfect side for barbecues, potlucks, or as a delightful addition to your turkey veggie tray. Whip up this easy-to-make salad that’s bound to impress your guests!
A delightful blend of flavors and textures, this Mexican Street Corn Salad is an embodiment of summer gatherings. It’s not just a dish; it’s an experience that evokes the vibrant culture and culinary traditions of Mexico.
The Perfect Summer Dish
There's something undeniably satisfying about a dish that captures the essence of summer. This Vibrant Mexican Street Corn Salad not only delivers a burst of flavor but also a delightful presentation that will brighten any table. The combination of charred corn and fresh, creamy avocado creates a harmonious balance of textures. As the weather warms up, this salad becomes a go-to recipe that embodies outdoor dining and joyful gatherings with family and friends.
Feel free to customize this salad according to your taste preferences or the ingredients you have on hand. You can add diced tomatoes for an extra color pop, or toss in some jalapeños for a spicy kick. The freshness of the lime juice elevates the flavors, making each bite refreshingly tangy. This adaptability ensures that it will remain a favorite throughout the season.
Nutritional Benefits
This salad isn't just delicious; it's also packed with nutrients. Corn is known for its high fiber content, which aids in digestion and promotes a healthy gut. The avocados bring healthy fats to the table, contributing to heart health and keeping you satiated longer. Meanwhile, the vibrant cilantro and lime juice are rich in antioxidants, making this dish a wholesome option for your summer menus.
By integrating these wholesome ingredients, you create a dish that not only pleases the palate but also supports your overall well-being. Don't hesitate to serve this salad alongside grilled proteins, as it enhances any meal with its nutrient-rich goodness.
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving this Vibrant Mexican Street Corn Salad, the possibilities are endless. As a side dish for barbecues, it pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, steaks, or plant-based options like veggie burgers. It also holds its own as an appetizer at potlucks or parties, ensuring that guests have a fresh option to complement heavier dishes.
For an elegant evening, serve the salad in individual glass bowls, allowing guests to enjoy the vivid colors while keeping portion sizes in mind. Alternatively, you can add a layer of this salad atop your tacos or burrito bowls, making it a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 ears of corn, husked
- 2 ripe avocados, diced
- 1/2 cup cotija cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 2 limes
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
Grill the Corn
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the corn for about 10 minutes, turning occasionally, until charred and cooked through. Remove from grill and let cool.
Prepare the Salad
Once the corn has cooled, cut the kernels off the cob and add them to a large mixing bowl. Add the diced avocados, red onion, cilantro, and cotija cheese.
Season and Serve
Drizzle with lime juice, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss gently to combine all ingredients. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Tips for Success
To achieve the best flavor and texture, selecting fresh corn is crucial. Look for ears with bright green husks and plump kernels. If grilling isn't an option, you can achieve a similar charred effect on a stovetop grill pan or even under a broiler. Regardless of the cooking method, be mindful not to overcook the corn to maintain its sweet crunch.
After grilling, allow the corn to cool slightly before cutting the kernels off the cob. This helps avoid burns and makes handling easier. Using a sharp knife will ensure clean cuts, reducing the mess and maximizing the amount of corn you can extract.
Storage Recommendations
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. The flavors will continue to meld together, making the salad even tastier the next day. However, if you're planning to keep it for later, consider storing the avocado separately to prevent browning.
Before serving leftovers, give the salad a gentle toss to redistribute the ingredients and flavors that might have settled. You may also want to add a splash of fresh lime juice to brighten it up again and refresh the taste.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the salad a few hours in advance. Just add the avocado right before serving to prevent it from browning.
→ What can I serve this salad with?
This salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, fish tacos, or as part of a veggie platter.
Vibrant Mexican Street Corn Salad
Experience the taste of summer with this refreshing Mexican Street Corn Salad, featuring charred corn, creamy avocado, zesty lime, and a sprinkle of cotija cheese. This colorful dish combines sweet and savory flavors, making it a perfect side for barbecues, potlucks, or as a delightful addition to your turkey veggie tray. Whip up this easy-to-make salad that’s bound to impress your guests!
Created by: Emma
Recipe Type: Global Flavors
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Main Ingredients
- 4 ears of corn, husked
- 2 ripe avocados, diced
- 1/2 cup cotija cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 2 limes
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How-To Steps
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the corn for about 10 minutes, turning occasionally, until charred and cooked through. Remove from grill and let cool.
Once the corn has cooled, cut the kernels off the cob and add them to a large mixing bowl. Add the diced avocados, red onion, cilantro, and cotija cheese.
Drizzle with lime juice, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss gently to combine all ingredients. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Protein: 5g