Mexican Street Corn Salad (Printable Version)
Grilled corn kernels mixed with creamy lime dressing, queso fresco, jalapeño and cilantro for authentic Mexican street food flavor.
# Everything You’ll Need:
01 -
6-8 large ears fresh corn, husks and silk removed, equal to about 6 cups
02 -
2 Tbsp salted butter, melted
03 -
1 Tbsp olive oil
04 -
1/2 cup mayonnaise
05 -
4 Tbsp fresh lime juice
06 -
1 tsp salt
07 -
1/2 tsp lemon pepper
08 -
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
09 -
1/4 tsp ground cumin
10 -
3 cloves garlic, minced
11 -
1 cup crumbled queso fresco, reserve 1/4 cup for garnish
12 -
1 medium jalapeno pepper, seeded and diced
13 -
1 small red onion, small diced
14 -
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
# Steps to Cook:
01 -
Heat a gas grill on medium or a charcoal grill until the coals are ash white.
02 -
Mix together olive oil and melted butter, then brush the mixture on all sides of the corn. Reserve the leftover mixture for the dressing.
03 -
Place buttered corn onto the grill. Grill, turning often for 10-12 minutes, until all sides are charred and the corn is tender. Use a sharp knife or corn stripper to remove the kernels from the cob. (Tip: Secure the corn in the center of a Bundt pan for easier cutting.)
04 -
In a medium-size mixing bowl, whisk together any remaining butter and olive oil, mayonnaise, lime juice, salt, lemon pepper, smoked paprika, ground cumin, and minced garlic.
05 -
Add the grilled corn, 3/4 cup crumbled queso fresco, diced jalapeno, diced red onion, and chopped fresh cilantro to the dressing. Mix well to combine.
06 -
Serve immediately or chill until serving. Garnish with the reserved 1/4 cup queso fresco and additional cilantro, if desired.
07 -
Use two 12 oz packages of frozen corn kernels (or one 32 oz package if a larger amount is needed). Thaw on the counter or under warm water in a colander, then pat dry with paper towels. Spread in a single layer on a large sheet pan. Drizzle with butter and olive oil, tossing to coat. Roast in a preheated 425°F oven for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Increase the oven temperature to broil for 5 minutes to char further at the end of roasting. Follow the recipe from Step 4 to prepare the dressing.
# Extra Suggestions:
01 -
For a smoky flavor, ensure the corn is well-charred during grilling or broiling.