Zesty Elote Corn Salad

Elote salad is a delicious fusion dish that is perfect side dish for barbecues, picnics, or any gathering!

elote salad

Elote salad, inspired by the classic Mexican street food, is a delightful and vibrant dish that combines the smoky sweetness of grilled corn with creamy, tangy, and slightly spicy flavors.

This salad is perfect for summer barbecues, potlucks, or as a unique side dish for any meal. Easy to prepare and bursting with fresh ingredients, elote salad brings a taste of Mexico to your table, making every bite a fiesta!

Tips:

  • For MORE: To increase volumn, add pasta like bowties!
  • For Extra Flavor: You can add other ingredients like diced red bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or avocado.
  • Make Ahead: This salad can be made a few hours in advance and kept in the refrigerator. Just give it a good stir before serving.
  • Spice Level: Adjust the amount of chili powder and jalapeño to your desired spice level.

This elote salad is a refreshing and flavorful twist on traditional salads, perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!

Here’s how you can make it:

Elote Salad

Sheri
Elote salad, inspired by the classic Mexican street food, is a delightful and vibrant dish that combines the smoky sweetness of grilled corn with creamy, tangy, and slightly spicy flavors.
5 from 1 vote
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Course Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine Mexican
Servings 8
Calories 195 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 3 cups corn kernels fresh, canned, or frozen
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1/4 cup lime juice about 2 limes
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup cotija cheese crumbled (or feta if you can’t find cotija)
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • 1/4 cup chopped green onions
  • 1 jalapeño seeded and finely chopped (optional, for extra heat)
  • Lime wedges for serving

Instructions
 

  • If using fresh corn, you can grill or roast the corn until charred for added flavor. Let it cool and cut the kernels off the cob.
  • In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
  • Add the cotija cheese, chopped cilantro, green onions, and jalapeño (if using).
  • Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
  • Before serving, give it a good stir. Serve with lime wedges on the side.

Nutrition

Calories: 195kcalCarbohydrates: 11gProtein: 3gFat: 16gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 7gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gTrans Fat: 0.03gCholesterol: 23mgSodium: 435mgPotassium: 142mgFiber: 2gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 370IUVitamin C: 4mgCalcium: 70mgIron: 1mg
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Sheri
Sheri

Sheri is the founder of ForkingGoodFood. She’s a Florida girl who loves experimenting in the kitchen — from sourdough and smoked meats to quick weeknight dinners and sweet treats. When she’s not testing out recipes with whatever’s fresh from her garden or on sale that week, you’ll find her by the grill, chasing new flavor combos, or figuring out clever kitchen hacks to make life easier (and tastier). Her goal? To share simple, delicious recipes that anyone can make — with a little personality and a lot of flavor.

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