Zesty Mexican Street Corn Salad
This Zesty Mexican Street Corn Salad is an incredibly refreshing and vibrant side dish that bursts with flavor and is perfect for warm weather gatherings. Made with thawed sweet corn and a medley of fresh ingredients, this salad features the bright, zesty notes of lime juice and the fresh, herbaceous quality of cilantro. The jalapeños and spices add a delightful kick, which you can tweak according to your preference! This dish not only stands out on its own but also serves as a fantastic base for a heartier corn salsa when combined with juicy tomatoes and hearty black beans. It's simplicity and freshness make it a hit at barbecues, picnics, and family gatherings. Enjoy this versatile salad chilled or at room temperature, and let the flavors meld beautifully overnight for the best taste!
6
Servings
25
Calories
11
Ingredients
Ingredients
Frozen corn
16 ounces (thawed)
Fresh cilantro
1/2 cup (finely chopped)
Red onion
1/2 cup (finely chopped)
Fresh lime juice
1/4 cup (freshly squeezed)
Jalapeños
2 tablespoons (minced and seeded (about 1 large))
Olive oil
1 tablespoon (extra virgin)
Salt
1/2 teaspoon (to taste)
Cumin
1/4 teaspoon (ground)
Chili powder
1/4 teaspoon (to taste)
Black pepper
1/4 teaspoon (freshly ground)
Garlic cloves
2 (minced)
Instructions
1
In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed corn, chopped cilantro, red onion, minced jalapeños, lime juice, olive oil, salt, cumin, chili powder, black pepper, and minced garlic.
2
Toss the ingredients together thoroughly until well mixed.
3
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid, and refrigerate the salad for at least 8 hours to allow the flavors to meld.
4
Before serving, give the salad a good stir to redistribute the ingredients and flavors.
Nutrition Information
1g
Fat
3.7g
Carbs
0.8g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Zesty Mexican Street Corn Salad?
It is a refreshing and vibrant side dish made with sweet corn, lime juice, cilantro, and spices, inspired by Mexican flavors.
How many calories are in a serving?
Each serving contains approximately 25 calories.
Is this recipe low in fat?
Yes, it contains only 1 gram of fat per serving.
What is the carbohydrate count?
There are 3.7 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
Does this salad provide protein?
Yes, each serving provides about 0.8 grams of protein.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe yields approximately 6 servings.
Can I use fresh corn instead of frozen?
Yes, you can substitute fresh corn for the 16 ounces of frozen corn; just ensure it is cooked or charred if preferred.
How long should the salad be refrigerated?
For the best flavor, refrigerate the salad for at least 8 hours to allow the ingredients to meld.
Can I make this salad spicy?
Yes, you can adjust the kick by adding more minced jalapeños or increasing the chili powder.
Is this recipe vegan?
Yes, as written with corn, vegetables, and olive oil, this recipe is naturally vegan.
Is the salad gluten-free?
Yes, all the listed ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
Can I add black beans to this?
Absolutely! Adding black beans makes for a heartier corn salsa or salad.
What other vegetables can I add?
Juicy tomatoes are a great addition to enhance the freshness and texture of the salad.
Should I use fresh or bottled lime juice?
Freshly squeezed lime juice is recommended for the best zesty flavor.
Can I substitute the red onion?
Yes, though red onion is preferred for its color and sharp flavor, you can use green onions for a milder taste.
What kind of oil is used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for one tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil.
How much garlic is needed?
You will need 2 minced garlic cloves.
Is cilantro necessary?
Cilantro provides a fresh, herbaceous quality, but if you dislike it, you can substitute with flat-leaf parsley.
Should the jalapeños be seeded?
Yes, seeding the jalapeños helps control the heat while maintaining the pepper flavor.
Can I eat this salad immediately?
You can, but the flavors improve significantly after chilling for several hours.
How should I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
Does this salad contain cheese?
This specific version is cheese-free, but you can add Cotija or Feta if you prefer a traditional street corn style.
Is this dish served hot or cold?
It is best served chilled or at room temperature.
What spices are used for seasoning?
The salad is seasoned with cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper.
Can I use canned corn?
Yes, canned corn can be used; just make sure to drain and rinse it well first.
Is this a good dish for barbecues?
Yes, its refreshing and vibrant nature makes it a perfect side dish for barbecues and picnics.
How much cilantro is required?
The recipe calls for 1/2 cup of finely chopped fresh cilantro.
How much lime juice is needed?
You will need 1/4 cup of fresh lime juice.
Can I prepare this a day in advance?
Yes, preparing it the night before is actually recommended for the best taste.
What is the first step in making this salad?
The first step is to combine the thawed corn and all other ingredients in a large mixing bowl.