Print

Flavorful Corn and Cotija Street Corn Salad Recipe with Zesty Creamy Dressing for Easy Summer Meals

Corn and Cotija Street Corn Salad - featured image
Print Recipe

A quick and easy street corn salad featuring smoky charred corn, tangy Cotija cheese, and a zesty creamy dressing, perfect for summer gatherings and busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels (if frozen, thaw and drain well)
  • 1 cup crumbled Cotija cheese
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise (use vegan mayo for dairy-free option)
  • 1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
  • Juice of 1 large lime
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
  • 2 stalks green onions, thinly sliced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

  1. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 4 cups of corn kernels (fresh or thawed frozen). Cook, stirring occasionally, until the corn starts to get golden brown and slightly charred in spots, about 8-10 minutes. If the corn seems dry, add a little more oil to help it brown evenly.
  2. While the corn cooks, combine 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt, juice of 1 large lime, 1 teaspoon chili powder, and 1 minced garlic clove in a small bowl. Whisk well until smooth. Taste and adjust with extra lime or chili powder if desired.
  3. Transfer the cooked corn to a large mixing bowl and let it cool slightly for about 5 minutes. Add 1 cup crumbled Cotija cheese, 2 sliced green onions, and 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro.
  4. Pour the creamy dressing over the corn mixture. Toss gently but thoroughly to coat evenly. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, keeping in mind Cotija cheese is salty.
  5. Serve the salad warm or chilled. If chilling, cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld. Stir before serving.

Notes

Use a hot pan and avoid overcrowding to get a good char on the corn. Adjust salt carefully because Cotija cheese is salty. Fresh lime juice and garlic make a big flavor difference. The salad can be served warm or chilled. For vegan option, use vegan mayo, dairy-free yogurt, and nutritional yeast instead of Cotija cheese. Add toasted pepitas or chopped radishes for extra texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: corn salad, street corn salad, Cotija cheese, summer salad, creamy dressing, easy side dish, Mexican street food, quick recipe

Find it online: https://yumbelle.com/flavorful-corn-and-cotija-street-corn-salad-recipe-with-zesty-creamy-dressing-for-easy-summer-meals/