Make a creamy, tangy salad featuring charred corn kernels dressed like authentic Mexican street corn, Elote.
Author:Ahazzam
Prep Time:15 min
Cook Time:15 min
Total Time:30 min
Yield:6 servings
Category:Side Dish
Method:Skillet Cooking
Cuisine:Mexican
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
4 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/2 cup mayonnaise or Mexican crema
1/4 cup sour cream
1/2 cup crumbled Cotija cheese plus extra for topping
1/4 cup fresh lime juice
1 teaspoon chili powder (like Tajín or ancho)
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 cup finely chopped red onion
1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
Instructions
If using fresh corn, lightly char the kernels in a dry skillet over medium-high heat until lightly browned in spots, about 5 to 7 minutes. If using frozen, thaw and pat dry.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the corn kernels and cook, stirring occasionally, until they are slightly charred, about 8 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise or crema, sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
In a large bowl, combine the cooled charred corn, red onion, and cilantro.
Pour the dressing mixture over the corn mixture and gently fold to coat everything evenly.
Stir in the 1/2 cup of crumbled Cotija cheese.
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Transfer the salad to a serving dish and sprinkle with extra Cotija cheese before serving.
Notes
You can grill the corn on the cob first, then cut the kernels off before mixing.
For a spicier flavor, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dressing.
This salad tastes best when served slightly warm or at room temperature.