Mexican Street Corn with Cotija (Printable format)

A creamy and tangy salad inspired by street corn, featuring fresh ingredients and a zesty dressing.

# List of ingredients:

→ Vegetables

01 - 4 cups corn kernels (about 5 ears of fresh corn, or 3 cups frozen and thawed)
02 - 1/2 small red onion, finely diced
03 - 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped
04 - 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

→ Cheese

05 - 3/4 cup cotija cheese, crumbled

→ Dressing

06 - 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
07 - 3 tablespoons sour cream or Mexican crema
08 - 1 clove garlic, minced
09 - 1 teaspoon chili powder
10 - 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
11 - Juice of 1 lime (about 2 tablespoons)
12 - 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
13 - 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

→ Garnish

14 - Lime wedges
15 - Extra chili powder or Tajín (optional)

# How to make it:

01 - If using fresh corn, heat a grill pan or skillet over high heat. Spread corn kernels evenly and cook, stirring occasionally, until lightly charred (about 5–7 minutes). If using frozen corn, thaw and pat dry before charring. Let cool slightly.
02 - In a large bowl, combine the charred corn, red onion, jalapeño, and cilantro.
03 - In a separate small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, garlic, chili powder, smoked paprika, lime juice, salt, and pepper until smooth.
04 - Pour the dressing over the corn mixture. Toss well to coat everything evenly.
05 - Add the crumbled cotija cheese and gently fold to distribute.
06 - Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve chilled or at room temperature. Garnish with extra cotija, more cilantro, lime wedges, and a sprinkle of chili powder or Tajín, if desired.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • It's a party in your mouth with textures and flavors that combine perfectly.
  • This salad is simple to whip up and always leaves guests asking for the recipe.
02 -
  • Use fresh corn if you can; the flavor difference is massive.
  • Let the salad chill for a bit to let the flavors meld beautifully.
03 -
  • Be mindful of salt—cotija can be quite salty, so taste as you go.
  • A sprinkle of Tajín on top adds a delightful zing!
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