Mexican Street Corn Salad

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Mexican street corn salad brings a taste of summer and the vibrant streets of Mexico to your dining table. The creamy texture of the mayonnaise and Mexican crema combined with the crunch of fresh corn makes for an irresistible dish that bursts with flavor. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a salad that captures the essence of authentic Mexican street food in the comfort of your kitchen.

This recipe showcases fresh corn, rich crema, and zesty lime, each bite transporting you to a sunny day at a street fair. The colors and textures combine beautifully, making it not just delectable but also visually appealing. This Mexican street corn salad truly stands out for gatherings, barbecues, or even as a delightful side to your meals.

Embracing the tradition of street food, this salad elevates everyday ingredients into something extraordinary. The combination of charred corn, herbs, and spices creates a mouthwatering medley that’s hard to resist. Let’s dive into how you can create this dynamic dish and impress your family and friends.

Mexican Street Corn Salad: A Flavorful Fusion

Fundamentals

Mexican street corn salad, also known as "Esquites," boasts a rich heritage that harmonizes simple ingredients into a vibrant side dish. The star here is fresh corn, which offers sweetness and texture. Be it fresh ears or frozen kernels, the integrity of the corn sets the stage for the salad’s ultimate charm.

This recipe invites you to explore flavors with the addition of mayonnaise and Mexican crema. Both work together to create a luscious coating that carries the spice notes and tang seamlessly across the corn. A sprinkle of cotija cheese adds a salty bite, while the cilantro and jalapeño contribute refreshing herbal notes that brighten the dish.

Preparation/setup

Starting with fresh corn brings a summer vibe that cannot be replicated with frozen kernels. If you have fresh corn, char it in a skillet with vegetable oil, letting the kernels develop a delightful golden hue. This process enhances the natural sweetness, giving the corn a smoky intensity that works beautifully with the creamy sauce.

For those opting for frozen corn, it’s essential to thaw it completely before mixing. This ensures even flavor distribution without risking sogginess. After preparing your corn, you’ll combine it with other stellar ingredients for a balanced medley.

Ingredients

The beauty of this Mexican street corn salad lies in its simplicity. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 6 ears fresh corn (or about 4-5 cups frozen corn kernels)
• 2 Tbsp vegetable oil (for charring)
• 1/3 cup mayonnaise
• 2 Tbsp Mexican crema or sour cream
• 1/2 cup crumbled cotija cheese
• 1/4 cup finely chopped cilantro
• 1 jalapeño, seeds removed and finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Juice from 2 limes (plus extra wedges for serving)
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 red onion, finely diced
• 1 avocado, diced
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh Mexican oregano or epazote
• A few dashes of your favorite hot sauce

Directions

1. If using fresh corn, heat a skillet over high heat and add vegetable oil. Once hot, place the corn in the skillet. Char the corn until all sides develop a nice golden brown color. Remove from heat and let cool for a few minutes. If using frozen corn, simply thaw it.

2. Cut the kernels off the cob or transfer thawed corn to a large mixing bowl.

3. In another bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Mexican crema, lime juice, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until well combined.

4. Add the chopped cilantro, jalapeño, minced garlic, diced red onion, and corn to the creamy mixture. Stir until all ingredients are well coated.

5. Gently fold in the diced avocado and cotija cheese. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

6. Serve immediately, or chill for an hour in the refrigerator to enhance flavors. Garnish with extra cilantro, lime wedges, and hot sauce.

Enhancing Your Mexican Street Corn Salad Experience

Technique

The technique of charring fresh corn is vital in developing flavors in this Mexican street corn salad. Achieving a proper char can significantly elevate the salad’s taste profile. Ensure your skillet is hot enough before adding the corn for even cooking.

When mixing the salad components, gently folding in ingredients like avocado and cotija cheese preserves their integrity while ensuring they mix seamlessly into the dressing. This preserves the creamy texture of the avocado while integrating the salty notes from the cotija cheese into each bite.

Tips/tricks

To enhance the flavors and showcase the vibrant colors of your salad, consider these tips:

• Use fresh, in-season corn for the best flavor. If you can only find frozen, ensure it’s organic and thawed properly.
• Adjust spice levels by using more or less jalapeño or hot sauce, depending on your taste preference.
• For an even richer flavor, consider grilling the corn if you have access — this adds a smoky flavor that is delightful.

Perfecting the Results

Perfecting results

The key to a perfect Mexican street corn salad lies in balance. The sweet corn, creamy dressing, and the zesty lime juice must harmonize well. If the salad feels heavy, add more lime juice to brighten it.

Achieving the right level of creaminess without overpowering the corn is crucial. Experiment a little with the mayonnaise and Mexican crema ratio to match your taste. Each bite should be creamy and delightful while maintaining the freshness of the vegetables.

Troubleshooting/variations

If you find that your salad turns out too salty or spicy, adding extra diced avocado can help balance the flavors. Avocado acts as a neutralizer, providing creaminess without overwhelming tastes.

Feeling adventurous? Try adding other toppings like roasted bell peppers or a sprinkle of taco seasoning for an additional flavor kick. Alternatively, switch up herbs by experimenting with different types like parsley or Italian herbs, based on personal preferences.

Final Touches on Your Mexican Street Corn Salad

Serving/presentation

When presenting your Mexican street corn salad, consider a colorful serving bowl to showcase the vibrant ingredients. Garnishing with additional cotija cheese and cilantro right before serving creates an eye-catching display.

For added texture and flavor, squeeze fresh lime over the salad just before serving. This can elevate the taste and offer a fresh citrus note that ties the dish together beautifully.

Pairings/storage

Served as a side dish, this Mexican street corn salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, fish tacos, or crisp greens. Its creamy, zesty flavors complement these proteins perfectly, creating a well-rounded meal.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The flavors will meld together over time, creating an even more dynamic taste. However, add fresh avocado right before serving to maintain its vibrant green color and texture.

In conclusion, Mexican street corn salad dazzles with its flavors and freshness, making it a beloved recipe that everyone can enjoy. Its vibrant ingredients and easy preparation make it perfect for gatherings or a simple dinner at home. Whether you’re savoring it on its own or alongside your favorite dishes, this salad is sure to leave a lasting impression. Enjoy the burst of flavors and the delightful textures with every bite!

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