Tired of the same old salad routine? Craving a burst of fresh, vibrant flavors that's also quick and easy to make? Then look no further! This Mexican Street Corn Salad recipe is your answer. It captures all the deliciousness of the classic street corn, but in a refreshing salad format perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a vibrant side dish, or even a fun appetizer. And the best part? We're using frozen corn, making it even more convenient! This recipe is a perfect example of how delicious and healthy meals can be easily achieved with homemade cooking.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups frozen corn, thawed
- 1 red bell pepper, finely diced
- 1/2 red onion, finely diced
- 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and minced (optional, adjust to your spice preference)
- 1/2 cup crumbled cotija cheese (or feta cheese as a substitute)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 lime, juiced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions:
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Prep the Veggies: Start by thawing your frozen corn completely. While it's thawing, dice the red bell pepper and red onion. Finely mince the jalapeño if using – remember to remove the seeds and membranes for less heat.
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Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the thawed corn, diced bell pepper, red onion, and jalapeño (if using).
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Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
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Dress the Salad: Pour the dressing over the corn and vegetable mixture. Toss gently to coat everything evenly.
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Add Cheese and Cilantro: Stir in the crumbled cotija cheese (or feta) and chopped cilantro.
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Serve & Enjoy: Serve immediately or chill for later. This salad tastes even better after the flavors have had a chance to meld in the refrigerator for a bit!
Cooking Tips & Variations:
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of jalapeño to control the spiciness. For a milder salad, omit it altogether or use only a small piece. For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dressing.
- Cheese Options: Cotija cheese is traditional, but feta cheese provides a delicious alternative. You can also experiment with queso fresco.
- Add-ins: Feel free to customize this salad with your favorite additions! Black beans, avocado, roasted sweet potatoes, or grilled corn are all excellent choices.
- Make it a Meal: Add some grilled chicken or shrimp for a heartier and more protein-packed salad. This makes it a fantastic quick dinner idea.
- Make Ahead: This salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The flavors will deepen, making it even tastier!
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and will vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 200-250
- Protein: 5-7g
- Fat: 10-12g
- Carbohydrates: 25-30g
- Fiber: 4-5g
This Mexican Street Corn Salad is a simple, healthy, and delicious recipe perfect for busy weeknights. It’s a versatile dish that can be easily customized to your liking, offering a delightful blend of flavors and textures. Enjoy this easy recipe and impress your friends and family with your culinary skills!