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Easy 5-Minute Elote Corn Salad Recipe Perfect for Summer BBQs

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A quick and vibrant elote corn salad with smoky charred corn, creamy cotija cheese, lime, and chili powder, perfect for summer BBQs and last-minute gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups fresh corn kernels (about 6 ears of corn)
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/2 cup cotija cheese, crumbled
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Salt to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • Optional: 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

Instructions

  1. Shuck the ears of corn and carefully cut the kernels off the cob using a sharp knife, aiming for about 4 cups of kernels.
  2. Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Add the corn kernels in a single layer and cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes until golden brown spots appear and a smoky aroma develops.
  3. Stir and cook for another 2 minutes to evenly char the kernels without burning.
  4. In a mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, fresh lime juice, chili powder, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy. Adjust lime or chili powder to taste.
  5. Add the warm charred corn kernels to the dressing and toss gently to coat without mushing the corn.
  6. Fold in the crumbled cotija cheese and chopped cilantro, then toss gently again.
  7. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or chili powder if needed. Sprinkle smoked paprika on top if desired.
  8. Serve immediately or chill for 10-15 minutes to let flavors meld.

Notes

For best flavor, char the corn kernels in a single layer to develop a smoky aroma. Fresh lime juice is essential for brightness. To save time, you can skip charring and microwave the corn, but the smoky flavor is worth the extra step. Avoid overdressing with mayonnaise to keep corn texture firm. Prepare corn and dressing separately if making ahead and combine just before serving.

Nutrition

Keywords: elote, corn salad, summer BBQ, quick side dish, Mexican salad, cotija cheese, smoky corn, easy recipe

Find it online: https://sunnysavory.com/easy-5-minute-elote-corn-salad-recipe-perfect-for-summer-bbqs/