Easy Mexican “Elote” Corn Salad Recipe

This Mexican street corn salad is creamy, smoky, and tangy, with charred corn kernels tossed in a zesty lime-mayo dressing. Crumbled cheese and a hint of heat from cayenne bring bold flavor to every bite.
By Charlotte Everly-James
May 4, 2025
esquites street corn salad

Stuff You Need

  • 2 Tbsp neutral high‑heat oil (canola or avocado)
  • 8 ears corn, husked and kernels removed (about 8 cups kernels)
  • 1 tsp kosher salt (or ½ tsp table salt), plus more to taste
  • ¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper
  • ¼ cup mayonnaise
  • ¼ cup plain Greek yogurt or crema
  • 2 tsp sweet paprika
  • 1 tsp cayenne pepper
  • 2 tsp fresh lime juice
  • 8 oz crumbled feta or cotija cheese (about 1 cup)
  • 2 Tbsp chopped fresh cilantro

Char the Corn

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat oil. Cut kernels from the cobs and add to the skillet with a pinch of salt and a few grinds of pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until browned, 10 to 15 minutes.

Mix the Dressing

In a large bowl, whisk together mayo, sour cream, paprika, cayenne, and lime juice until smooth.

Combine and Serve

Add the charred corn to the bowl and mix to coat. Stir in feta and cilantro. Serve warm or chilled.

esquites street corn salad

Mexican “Elote” Corn Salad

This Mexican street corn salad is creamy, smoky, and tangy, with charred corn kernels tossed in a zesty lime-mayo dressing. Crumbled cheese and a hint of heat from cayenne bring bold flavor to every bite.
Print Pin Rate
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes

Ingredients

  • 2  Tbsp neutral high‑heat oil canola or avocado
  • 8 ears corn husked and kernels removed (about 8 cups kernels)
  • 1  tsp kosher salt or ½ tsp table salt, plus more to taste
  • ¼  tsp freshly ground black pepper
  • ¼  cup mayonnaise
  • ¼  cup plain Greek yogurt or crema
  • 2  tsp sweet paprika
  • 1  tsp cayenne pepper
  • 2  tsp fresh lime juice
  • 8  oz crumbled feta or cotija cheese about 1 cup
  • 2  Tbsp chopped fresh cilantro

Instructions

  • Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high. Cut kernels from cobs and cook with salt and pepper, stirring occasionally, until browned (10–15 min).
  • In a bowl, whisk mayo, sour cream, paprika, cayenne, and lime juice until smooth.
  • Add corn to the dressing and toss to coat. Stir in feta and cilantro. Serve warm or at room temp.

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