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Flavorful Mexican Street Corn Salad Recipe Easy Tajin Lime Cup

mexican street corn salad - featured image

A vibrant and flavorful Mexican street corn salad in a cup featuring smoky roasted corn, creamy mayo, tangy lime, crumbly Cotija cheese, and a spicy Tajín kick. Perfect as a quick snack, side dish, or party treat.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels (about 600g)
  • ½ cup mayonnaise (120ml)
  • Juice of 2 medium limes (about 3 tablespoons or 45ml)
  • ½ cup crumbled Cotija cheese (70g)
  • ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
  • 2 green onions, finely sliced
  • 1 to 2 teaspoons Tajín seasoning (adjust to taste)
  • ¼ teaspoon chili powder (optional)
  • ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the corn by removing kernels from 4 medium ears if fresh, or thaw and drain frozen corn well to avoid sogginess (about 10 minutes).
  2. Roast or grill the corn kernels in a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook without stirring for 2-3 minutes to get a char, then stir and cook another 2-3 minutes until golden brown spots appear. Alternatively, use raw corn if preferred.
  3. In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, lime juice, chili powder (if using), salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  4. Add the roasted corn, chopped cilantro, green onions, and half of the Cotija cheese to the dressing. Stir gently to combine evenly.
  5. Sprinkle the salad generously with Tajín seasoning, tossing lightly or sprinkling on top as garnish. Add the remaining Cotija cheese over the salad.
  6. Spoon the salad into individual cups or bowls. Garnish with extra lime wedges or cilantro sprigs if desired. Serve immediately or refrigerate up to 2 days.

Notes

For smoky flavor, do not stir corn too early while roasting to allow char spots to form. May substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or dairy-free alternatives for lighter or vegan versions. Cotija cheese can be replaced with feta or nutritional yeast for dairy-free option. Add jalapeños or hot sauce for extra heat. Store dressing separately if making ahead to maintain texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: Mexican street corn salad, elote salad, Tajín, lime, corn salad in a cup, easy side dish, party snack, smoky corn salad