Mexican street corn salad with lime crema is a delicious and refreshing dish that captures the vibrant flavors of Mexican street food. This salad combines the sweetness of corn, the tanginess of lime, the creaminess of crema, and the boldness of spices to create a truly irresistible culinary experience. Whether you're looking for a side dish for your summer barbecue or a standalone vegetarian meal, this Mexican street corn salad is sure to satisfy your taste buds.
Ingredients
For the salad:
- 4 ears of fresh corn, husked
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and minced
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup crumbled cotija cheese
For the lime crema:
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
- 1 teaspoon lime zest
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Grill the corn
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Brush the corn with olive oil and place it directly on the grill. Cook for about 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the corn is tender and charred in spots. Remove from the grill and let it cool slightly. Once cooled, cut the kernels off the cob using a sharp knife and transfer them to a large mixing bowl.
Step 2: Prepare the salad
Add the diced red bell pepper, minced jalapeño pepper, finely chopped red onion, and fresh cilantro to the bowl with the grilled corn kernels. Toss everything together until well combined.
Step 3: Make the lime crema
In a separate bowl, whisk together the sour cream, mayonnaise, lime juice, lime zest, minced garlic, ground cumin, salt, and pepper. Adjust the seasonings according to your taste preferences.
Step 4: Combine and serve
Pour the lime crema over the corn salad mixture and gently toss until all the ingredients are coated with the crema. Sprinkle the crumbled cotija cheese on top as a finishing touch. Serve the Mexican street corn salad immediately and enjoy!
Variations
While this recipe is already bursting with flavors, you can customize it to suit your preferences or add extra elements to elevate the dish. Here are a few variations you can try:
Grilled shrimp addition:
For a heartier version, grill some marinated shrimp and toss them into the corn salad. The smoky grilled shrimp will complement the flavors of the lime crema and add a delightful twist.
Avocado twist:
If you're an avocado lover, consider adding diced avocado to the salad.
The creamy avocado will provide a buttery texture and add a touch of richness to the dish.
Spicy kick:
If you prefer a spicier flavor profile, you can increase the amount of minced jalapeño pepper or add some hot sauce or crushed red pepper flakes to the lime crema. This will give the salad an extra kick that spice enthusiasts will appreciate.
Grain addition:
To make the salad more substantial, you can incorporate cooked grains such as quinoa or bulgur wheat. Simply cook the grains according to the package instructions and mix them in with the corn and other ingredients. This will provide additional texture and make the salad a filling meal on its own.
Serving and Storage
Mexican street corn salad with lime crema is best served immediately after preparing it. The flavors are at their peak when the salad is freshly tossed and the ingredients are crisp. However, if you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Before serving any leftovers, give the salad a good stir to redistribute the flavors and ensure that the lime crema coats the ingredients evenly. Note that the texture of the corn may soften slightly upon refrigeration, but the salad will still be delicious.
Conclusion
Mexican street corn salad with lime crema is a vibrant and flavorful dish that brings the essence of Mexican street food to your table. With its burst of sweet corn, tangy lime crema, and savory toppings, this salad is a crowd-pleaser that will transport you to the lively streets of Mexico. Whether you're hosting a summer gathering or simply craving a refreshing and satisfying meal, this salad is a perfect choice. Embrace the complexity of flavors and enjoy the burst of culinary delight in every bite!