Street Corn Creamy Cucumber Salad

This refreshing Street Corn Creamy Cucumber Salad is perfect for summer gatherings when you want something light but full of flavor. It combines the sweet-charred taste of grilled corn with the cool crunch of cucumber, all wrapped in a zesty, creamy dressing. This salad has become my go-to for potlucks and barbecues because it never fails to impress friends and family.

I first tossed this salad together for a family picnic on a hot day, and it quickly became the star dish everyone asked for seconds of

Ingredients

• Corn: Two cups of corn either canned or frozen make this salad easy and sweet. Fresh corn can be substituted when in season for the best flavor
• Cucumber: One large cucumber provides a refreshing crunch. Select firm cucumbers with bright skin for freshness
• Red onion: Half a cup of red onion adds sharpness to balance the creaminess. Green onions can be used for a milder bite
• Fresh cilantro: Quarter cup fresh cilantro offers a burst of herbal freshness. If you’re not a fan, dill or parsley work well too
• Greek yogurt: One cup Greek yogurt delivers creaminess and tang. For a vegan twist, swap with dairy-free yogurt
• Mayonnaise: Quarter cup mayonnaise enriches the dressing’s texture. Adjust the amount to your preferred creaminess
• Garlic: Two cloves garlic freshly minced inject a punch of flavor that brightens the salad
• Lime juice: Two tablespoons lime juice gives a zesty tang. Lemon juice is a fine substitute
• Chili powder: One teaspoon chili powder brings mild heat and depth. Tweak to your liking
• Salt and pepper: One teaspoon salt and a teaspoon of pepper season the dish perfectly

Step-by-Step Instructions

Sear the Corn:

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and cook the corn for 10 to 12 minutes, turning often until you get a nice char and the kernels are tender. This char adds a smoky sweetness

Prep the Vegetables:

Once the corn has cooled, carefully cut off the kernels and place them in a large mixing bowl. Dice the cucumber and finely chop the red onion and cilantro before adding them to the corn

Mix the Dressing:

In a separate bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, minced garlic, lime juice, chili powder, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy

Combine and Chill:

Pour the dressing over the corn and vegetable mixture and toss gently to coat everything evenly. Cover the bowl and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors marry

Ready to Serve:

Give the salad one last stir before serving. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed for the perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and spicy

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Storage Tips

Keep leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It is best enjoyed within two days as the cucumber can release water which may thin the dressing over time. Stir gently before serving again

Ingredient Substitutions

If you do not have Greek yogurt, sour cream or plain regular yogurt can be used although the texture may be slightly different. For more heat, add a pinch of cayenne or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing. Fresh herbs can be swapped depending on what you have on hand or prefer

Serving Suggestions

This salad pairs beautifully with tortilla chips as a light dip or alongside grilled chicken and fish. Try it as a topping on tacos for a creamy fresh crunch or serve it at a summer picnic for a refreshing side everyone will enjoy

Cultural Context

Street corn, or elote, is a beloved Mexican snack often grilled and slathered in creamy, spicy sauces. This salad is inspired by those vibrant street flavors adapted into a easy-to-share summer dish perfect for American backyard parties

Pro Tips

• Toast your chili powder lightly in a dry pan before adding it to the dressing to boost its smoky flavor
• Do not skip chilling the salad. The flavors develop beautifully and the salad tastes much more refreshing cold
• Use a sharp knife to cut the kernels off the cob cleanly to avoid losing too much corn or creating a mess

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh for this salad?

Yes, frozen corn works well when grilled or sautéed. Just thaw it before cooking to achieve a slightly charred, smoky flavor that enhances the salad.

→ What herbs can I substitute if I don't have cilantro?

Fresh dill or parsley are great alternatives that add fresh, aromatic notes without overpowering the creamy dressing.

→ Is there a vegan alternative for the creamy dressing?

Using dairy-free Greek-style yogurt and vegan mayonnaise maintains the creamy texture while keeping the salad plant-based.

→ How do I adjust the spice level in this salad?

You can reduce or omit the chili powder for a milder taste or increase it slightly for more heat based on your preference.

→ What is the best way to serve this salad?

Chill the salad before serving for the best flavor. It pairs nicely with crunchy tortilla chips or as a fresh side dish at summer meals.