Craving street food at home? learn how to make authentic elote corn salad

Elote, or Mexican street corn, is a beloved delicacy that combines the sweetness of corn with the tangy flavors of mayonnaise, cotija cheese, and chili powder. While traditionally enjoyed on the cob, elote can also be transformed into a refreshing and vibrant corn salad that’s perfect for summer gatherings and potlucks.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 6 ears of fresh corn, husked and kernels removed
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup cotija cheese, crumbled
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. Prepare the Corn: In a large bowl, combine the corn kernels with the mayonnaise, cotija cheese, red onion, cilantro, lime juice, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.

2. Chill: Refrigerate the corn salad for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight, to allow the flavors to meld.

3. Serve: Serve chilled, garnished with additional cotija cheese and cilantro, if desired.

Variations

• Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the corn salad for a kick of heat.
• Creamy: Stir in 1/4 cup of sour cream or Greek yogurt for a richer, creamier texture.
• Sweet: Add a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup to balance the tangy flavors.
• Grilled: Grill the corn kernels before adding them to the salad for a smoky flavor.

Health Benefits of Elote Corn Salad

Elote corn salad is not only delicious but also packed with nutritional value. Here are some of its health benefits:

• High in Fiber: Corn is a good source of dietary fiber, which helps promote digestive health and keep you feeling full.
• Rich in Antioxidants: Corn contains antioxidants, such as lutein and zeaxanthin, which protect your cells from damage.
• Good Source of Vitamins: Elote corn salad provides essential vitamins, including vitamin A, vitamin C, and folate.

Pairing Suggestions

Elote corn salad pairs well with:

• Grilled meats: Serve it as a refreshing side dish to grilled chicken, steak, or fish.
• Tacos and burritos: Add it as a flavorful topping to your favorite Mexican dishes.
• Salads: Mix it into green salads for a burst of sweetness and crunch.
• Summer picnics: Pack it for picnics and enjoy it as a light and satisfying snack.

Tips for the Best Elote Corn Salad

• Use fresh, sweet corn for the best flavor.
• Don’t overcook the corn. It should be tender but still slightly crunchy.
• Let the corn salad chill for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to develop.
• If you don’t have cotija cheese, you can substitute feta or Parmesan cheese.
• Add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt to each serving for an extra creamy touch.

Beyond Corn: Other Variations of Elote Salad

While corn is the traditional base for elote salad, you can experiment with other grains and vegetables to create unique and flavorful variations:

• Quinoa Elote Salad: Swap out the corn for quinoa for a protein-packed version.
• Black Bean Elote Salad: Add black beans to the corn salad for a boost of fiber and protein.
• Roasted Vegetable Elote Salad: Roast a variety of vegetables, such as bell peppers, onions, and zucchini, and add them to the corn salad for a colorful and flavorful twist.

Information You Need to Know

Q: Can I make elote corn salad ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can refrigerate the corn salad for up to 3 days. Just bring it to room temperature before serving.

Q: What if I don’t have mayonnaise?
A: You can substitute Greek yogurt or sour cream for the mayonnaise.

Q: Is elote corn salad healthy?
A: Yes, elote corn salad is a healthy dish that provides fiber, antioxidants, and essential vitamins.