Spicy Mexican Street Corn Salad Recipe

Ingredients

List of ingredients needed for this Spicy Mexican Street Corn Salad Recipe:

To make this delicious and spicy Mexican Street Corn Salad, you will need the following ingredients:

Main Ingredients:

• 1 cup of frozen corn kernels, thawed

• 2 cups of mixed greens (such as arugula, spinach, and lettuce)

• 1 cup of diced red bell pepper

• 1 cup of diced yellow onion

• 1/4 cup of chopped fresh cilantro

Spicy Dressing:

• 2 tablespoons of olive oil

• 2 cloves of garlic, minced

• 1 tablespoon of lime juice

• 1 teaspoon of ground cumin

• 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika (optional)

• 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeño pepper for added heat

• Salt and pepper, to taste

Additions:

• 1 cup of crumbled cotija cheese (or feta or queso fresco)

• 1/2 cup of diced cooked chorizo sausage or Mexican-style chorizo

• Optional toppings: chopped fresh scallions, diced avocado, sour cream, or a sprinkle of crumbled queso fresco

Remember to adjust the level of heat to your liking by adding more or less cayenne pepper or using different types of hot peppers.

• 4 cups of corn kernels (fresh or frozen, thawed)

Corn kernels are the main ingredient in this Spicy Mexican Street Corn Salad Recipe, providing a sweet and crunchy texture to the dish.

The recipe calls for 4 cups of corn kernels, which can be either fresh or frozen and thawed. Fresh corn is ideal if it’s available and in season, as it provides a more natural sweetness and better texture.

However, using frozen corn that has been thawed is also a good option, especially during the off-season when fresh corn may not be readily available. Just make sure to choose a high-quality frozen corn product that has not been treated with additives or preservatives.

The 4 cups of corn kernels can be further divided into several different types of corn, such as sweet corn, popcorn, or other specialty varieties. However, for the purpose of this recipe, it’s best to use plain old sweet corn, which is readily available and affordable.

When choosing fresh corn, look for ears that are firm and have tightly closed husks. Avoid corn with dry or wilted leaves, as this can be a sign of age or poor quality.

For frozen corn, check the packaging to ensure that it’s been stored properly and has not been exposed to heat or moisture. A good frozen corn product should still retain its natural sweetness and texture even after being thawed.

In terms of quantity, 4 cups of corn kernels may seem like a lot, but trust us when we say that you’ll want to make a big batch of this salad to enjoy throughout the week. The corn is the star of the show here, so be sure to use high-quality kernels and don’t skimp on the quantity.

• 1 red bell pepper, diced

The star ingredient of this recipe is the **red bell pepper** (1), which adds a crunchy texture and a pop of color to the salad. It’s essential to dice it finely so that it cooks evenly and blends in with the other flavors.

In terms of its nutritional benefits, **_red bell peppers_** are an excellent source of vitamin C and antioxidants. They also contain a moderate amount of vitamin A, which is important for healthy vision and immune function.

One key thing to note about using bell peppers in this recipe is that they will soften slightly as they cook with the other ingredients. This will help them blend in with the texture of the salad without becoming too overpowering.

If you’re looking for ways to add some extra flavor to your Spicy Mexican Street Corn Salad, consider using smoked paprika or diced chipotle peppers in adobo sauce. These will give the dish a smoky depth that complements the sweetness of the corn and the tanginess of the lime juice.

In summary, the **red bell pepper** is an integral ingredient in this Spicy Mexican Street Corn Salad Recipe. Its crunchy texture, pop of color, and nutritional benefits make it a great addition to this flavorful dish.

• 1 small red onion, diced

The first ingredient in this recipe is a small red onion, which has been diced into fine pieces.

A small red onion is typically around 1-2 inches in diameter and has a sweet, mild flavor that pairs well with the spices and corn in this salad.

Dicing the onion means cutting it into very small cubes, usually about 1/4 inch in size. This helps to distribute the flavor evenly throughout the salad.

The red color of the onion also adds a pop of color to the dish, which is visually appealing when served as a side or used as an ingredient in other recipes.

When selecting a small red onion, look for one that has papery skin and no visible signs of sprouting or damage. This will ensure the best flavor and texture in your finished salad.

Diced onions are often used as a base for many salads and salsas, and their mild flavor won’t overpower the other ingredients in this recipe.

• 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped

The first ingredient listed for this Spicy Mexican Street Corn Salad Recipe is 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped.

Jalapeño peppers are a type of hot pepper that originated in Mexico and belong to the Capsicum annuum species.

They have a distinctive bright green color when they’re unripe and turn red or sometimes brownish-red as they ripen.

The jalapeño pepper is relatively small, usually around 2-3 inches in length and about an inch in diameter.

The flesh of the jalapeño pepper has a crunchy texture and contains numerous seeds that are often white or light yellow in color.

When a jalapeño pepper is ripe, its skin will be slightly soft to the touch but still firm enough to hold its shape.

The flavor of a jalapeño pepper is typically described as pungent, with a moderate to intense heat level that ranges from 2,500 to 8,000 Scoville Heat Units (SHU).

For this Spicy Mexican Street Corn Salad Recipe, only the seeds are removed from the jalapeño pepper and it’s then chopped into fine pieces.

The process of seeding a jalapeño pepper involves carefully slicing along both sides of the stem and removing the core, which includes most of the seeds and white membranes that contain capsaicin.

Once seeded, the remaining flesh can be finely chopped to release its full flavor and heat potential in the salad.

The fine chopping process also helps break down the cell walls of the jalapeño pepper, releasing more of its natural oils and contributing to a richer, more complex flavor profile in the finished dish.

• 2 cloves of garlic, minced

The ingredients used in this recipe are carefully selected to create a harmonious balance of flavors and textures that define the essence of Spicy Mexican Street Corn Salad.

Among these essential components, 2 cloves of garlic hold significant importance.

Garlic is a fundamental ingredient in many cuisines worldwide, particularly in Latin American cooking, where it’s often used to add depth, richness, and aroma to various dishes.

In the context of Spicy Mexican Street Corn Salad, minced garlic plays a crucial role as it’s sautéed with other ingredients such as onions, chilies, and tomatoes to create the base flavor profile of the salad.

Garlic contains sulfur compounds that contribute to its distinctive smell when cooked, which enhances the overall aroma of the dish, enticing the palate to indulge in the Spicy Mexican Street Corn Salad experience.

The two cloves of minced garlic used in this recipe are likely enough to produce a subtle but noticeable flavor, as too much garlic can overpower the other ingredients and ruin the balance of flavors required for an authentic Spicy Mexican Street Corn Salad.

• 1/2 cup of fresh cilantro, chopped

Cilantro, also known as coriander or dhania, is a popular herb commonly used in Mexican and other Latin American cuisines. In the context of the Spicy Mexican Street Corn Salad recipe, cilantro adds a fresh and tangy flavor to the dish. The herb has long, thin stems and leaves that are typically used in its entirety, including the stem. To chop 1/2 cup of fresh cilantro for this recipe, start by rinsing the cilantro under cold running water to remove any dirt or debris. Next, gently pat the cilantro dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.

Using kitchen shears or scissors, cut off the stems and discard them if desired. You can also use the stems in soups or stocks for added flavor. Place the chopped cilantro leaves into a bowl or on a cutting board, depending on your preference. Chop the cilantro finely using a sharp knife, aiming for uniform pieces that are about 1/4 inch in size. This will help distribute the herb’s flavor evenly throughout the salad.

It’s worth noting that cilantro can be quite potent, so start with a small amount and adjust to taste. Some people find that cilantro has a soapy or metallic flavor, while others enjoy its bright, citrusy taste. When using fresh cilantro in cooking, it’s essential to use high-quality ingredients and handle the herb gently to preserve its delicate flavors and aroma.

After chopping 1/2 cup of fresh cilantro for the Spicy Mexican Street Corn Salad recipe, you’ll be left with a fragrant and flavorful ingredient that will elevate the dish to new heights. Be sure to store any leftover chopped cilantro in an airtight container in the refrigerator to preserve its freshness and prevent spoilage.

Additional ingredients for extra flavor:

The beauty of a Spicy Mexican Street Corn Salad lies in its ability to balance a variety of flavors and textures, creating a truly unique culinary experience. To achieve this, you’ll want to start with a foundation of quality ingredients.

Fresh Corn: Fresh corn on the cob is essential for this recipe, as it provides a natural sweetness that will be caramelized in the pan. Look for ears of corn that are heavy for their size and have a slightly sweet aroma. You’ll need about 4 cups of fresh corn kernels.

Onions: A Red Onion adds a pungent flavor to the salad, which complements the sweetness of the corn perfectly. Dice the onion into small pieces and sauté it in a pan until caramelized to bring out its natural sugars.

Jalapeños: These Spicy Peppers add a bold heat to the salad, which will leave your taste buds tingling. Simply chop them up and add them to the mix for an extra kick of flavor.

Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a bright, herbaceous note to the salad that pairs well with the sweetness of the corn. Chop the cilantro leaves into small pieces and sprinkle them over the top of the salad just before serving.

Lime Juice: A squeeze of fresh lime juice brings the flavors together and adds a touch of acidity to the salad, cutting through the richness of the other ingredients. Use freshly squeezed lime juice for the best flavor.

Now that you have your foundation ingredients, let’s talk about some additional ingredients that can add extra depth and complexity to your Spicy Mexican Street Corn Salad.

Cotija Cheese: This crumbly Mexican Cheese adds a salty, nutty flavor to the salad that complements the sweetness of the corn perfectly. Sprinkle it over the top of the salad just before serving.

Basil: A few leaves of fresh basil add a bright, herbaceous note to the salad that pairs well with the other ingredients. Simply chop them up and sprinkle them over the top of the salad just before serving.

Oregano: This Mild Herb adds a slightly bitter flavor to the salad that balances out the sweetness of the corn. Sprinkle it over the top of the salad just before serving.

Pineapple: A diced pineapple adds a sweet and tangy flavor to the salad, which pairs well with the spiciness of the jalapeños. Simply chop up the pineapple chunks and add them to the mix for an extra burst of flavor.

Avocado: A diced avocado adds a creamy texture to the salad that pairs well with the crunch of the corn and other ingredients. Simply chop up the avocado chunks and sprinkle them over the top of the salad just before serving.

• 2 tablespoons of lime juice

Lime juice is an essential ingredient in this Spicy Mexican Street Corn Salad Recipe, and it plays a crucial role in bringing all the flavors together. Freshly squeezed lime juice adds a bright, tangy flavor to the dish that complements the sweetness of the corn, the spiciness of the peppers, and the savory taste of the cheese.

The acidity in the lime juice helps to cut through the richness of the other ingredients and balances out the flavors in the salad. It’s also a key component in enhancing the overall freshness and vibrancy of the dish, making it perfect for a light and refreshing summer salad.

When using lime juice in this recipe, it’s essential to use freshly squeezed juice instead of bottled or packaged juice. Freshly squeezed lime juice has a more intense flavor and aroma than its bottled counterpart, and it will add a depth of flavor that bottled juice cannot replicate.

To get the most out of your lime juice, make sure to squeeze it just before using it in the recipe. This will ensure that you capture the maximum amount of flavor and oil from the limes, resulting in a more vibrant and aromatic salad.

• 1 teaspoon of ground cumin

Cumin is a fundamental spice commonly used in various international cuisines, particularly in Mexican and Indian cooking.

The ground form of cumin has a more intense flavor compared to whole seeds, which are typically toasted or dry-roasted before being ground into a fine powder.

When using ground cumin, it’s essential to note that its aroma is distinct from the seeds’ nutty flavor.

The addition of one teaspoon of ground cumin in a recipe, such as the Spicy Mexican Street Corn Salad, enhances the depth and warmth of flavors, blending harmoniously with other spices like chili powder and smoked paprika.

In the context of the Spicy Mexican Street Corn Salad Recipe, ground cumin plays a pivotal role in capturing the essence of authentic street food from Mexico, adding an earthy undertone to balance out the spiciness.

Ground cumin pairs exceptionally well with ingredients like lime juice, olive oil, and Corn Kernels, which are staple components of Mexican cuisine, bringing about a symphony of flavors in this salad recipe.

Instructions

Step-by-Step Guide to Assemble the Salad:

To assemble this delicious Spicy Mexican Street Corn Salad, follow these easy-to-follow steps and create a flavorful dish that combines the perfect blend of spicy and sweet.

Step 1: Gather all necessary ingredients

This salad requires a variety of ingredients including cooked corn kernels, diced red bell peppers, chopped fresh cilantro, crumbled queso fresco or feta cheese, and sliced radishes. You will also need a jalapeño pepper for added heat, lime juice for freshness, salt and pepper for seasoning, and olive oil for dressing.

Step 2: Cook the corn kernels

Cook the corn kernels in boiling water until they are tender, then drain and set aside to cool. This step is crucial as it will help bring out the natural sweetness of the corn.

Step 3: Chop the red bell pepper

Chop the red bell pepper into small, bite-sized pieces and add them to a large bowl with the cooked corn kernels.

Step 4: Add the chopped cilantro

Add the chopped fresh cilantro to the bowl with the corn and red bell peppers. The fragrance of cilantro will instantly elevate the flavors of this salad.

Step 5: Crumble the queso fresco or feta cheese

Crumble the queso fresco or feta cheese into small pieces and sprinkle them over the top of the corn, red bell peppers, and cilantro mixture. This will add a tangy, creamy element to the salad.

Step 6: Slice the radishes

Slice the radishes thinly and add them to the bowl with the other ingredients. The crunchy texture of the radishes will provide a nice contrast to the soft corn and cheese.

Step 7: Add the diced jalapeño pepper

Add the diced jalapeño pepper to the bowl and toss gently to combine with the other ingredients. This will add an extra kick of heat to the salad, so feel free to adjust the level of heat to your liking by adding more or less jalapeño.

Step 8: Drizzle with lime juice

Drizzle a squeeze of fresh lime juice over the top of the salad and toss gently to combine. This will add a burst of citrus flavor that will tie all the ingredients together.

Step 9: Season with salt and pepper

Add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste, and then serve immediately, garnished with additional cilantro if desired.

This Spicy Mexican Street Corn Salad Recipe makes the perfect side dish for any meal or gathering. Its combination of sweet corn, spicy jalapeños, crunchy radishes, and tangy queso fresco will have everyone coming back for more!

• In a large bowl, combine corn kernels, red bell pepper, and red onion.

To create a delicious and flavorful Spicy Mexican Street Corn Salad, it’s essential to start by preparing the main ingredients.

The first step involves combining Corn Kernels, red bell pepper, and red onion in a large bowl. This mixture serves as the foundation of the salad and provides a sweet and crunchy texture.

Make sure to use fresh Corn Kernels, preferably grilled or roasted to bring out their natural sweetness. The charred flavor will add depth to the dish and make it more appealing.

The Red Bell Pepper adds a pop of color and a slight crunch to the salad. It’s best to use a sweet red bell pepper variety, such as the California or Santa Fe type.

The Red Onion contributes a pungent flavor and a crunchy texture that pairs well with the corn and bell peppers. You can chop the onion thinly to avoid overpowering the other ingredients.

Once you’ve combined these ingredients, it’s time to add the dressing. The key is to strike a balance between spicy and tangy flavors without overpowering the natural taste of the corn and vegetables.

• In a separate bowl, whisk together lime juice and cumin.

Instructions for preparing the Spicy Mexican Street Corn Salad Recipe involve several steps that require attention to detail and organization. To begin, it’s essential to have all the necessary ingredients and tools within reach to ensure a smooth and efficient cooking process.

The first step in making this recipe is to preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) for roasting the corn. While the oven is heating up, take time to prepare the corn by removing the husks and silk from four ears of corn. Once prepared, place the corn on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and drizzle with olive oil.

Next, in a separate bowl, whisk together lime juice and cumin as an essential marinade for the roasted corn. This mixture is crucial in infusing the flavors of Mexico into the dish. The acidity from the lime juice will help to balance the richness of the cheese and cream, while the cumin adds depth and warmth.

After 20 minutes of roasting the corn in the oven, remove it from the heat and let it cool down slightly. This is an important step as it prevents the corn from becoming mushy or overcooked. Once cooled, slice off the kernels from each ear of corn and place them in a large bowl.

Now, it’s time to add the remaining ingredients to the bowl with the corn. These include diced red onion, chopped cilantro, crumbled cotija cheese, and a sprinkle of chili powder. The combination of these flavors and textures will create a delicious and authentic Mexican Street Corn Salad.

The final step is to toss all the ingredients together in the bowl until they are well combined. This is an essential step as it ensures that every bite of the salad has a balance of flavors and textures. Taste the salad and adjust the seasoning if necessary, then cover it with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.

When serving, garnish the salad with additional cilantro, lime wedges, and crumbled cotija cheese to add a pop of color and flavor to each plate. This Spicy Mexican Street Corn Salad Recipe is perfect for potlucks, barbecues, or any occasion that requires a delicious and authentic Mexican dish.

• Pour the dressing over the corn mixture and stir until coated.

In order to prepare the final component of this Spicy Mexican Street Corn Salad, a crucial step involves combining the dressing with the corn mixture. This fusion of flavors and textures is pivotal in bringing together the various elements that comprise this delightful dish.

The first action required is to carefully pour the dressing over the corn mixture. It is essential to ensure that the dressing covers all aspects of the corn, thereby distributing its rich flavor evenly throughout the salad. This can be achieved by pouring the dressing in a steady and controlled manner, allowing it to flow smoothly over the corn.

As the dressing is being poured, it is vital to simultaneously stir the mixture with a gentle yet deliberate motion. This action facilitates an even coating of the dressing on every kernel of corn, resulting in a harmonious balance of flavors and textures within each bite. The stirring should be performed in a manner that does not result in any abrupt or jerky movements, which may cause the ingredients to become dislodged or unevenly distributed.

The ultimate goal is to achieve a uniform coating of the dressing on all the corn kernels, thereby creating a delightful harmony of flavors and textures within this Spicy Mexican Street Corn Salad. The careful pouring and stirring of the dressing over the corn mixture are essential steps that must be carried out with precision in order to bring this dish to perfection.

• Add chopped cilantro and jalapeño pepper; mix well.

To prepare a delicious **Spicy Mexican Street Corn Salad**, follow these steps carefully:

The first step involves **roasting** the corn. To do this, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the ears of corn on a baking sheet and roast for about 20-25 minutes, turning occasionally until the kernels are lightly charred.

While the corn is roasting, you can prepare the other ingredients. In a large bowl, combine **diced** red onion, **chopped** cilantro, **minced** jalapeño pepper, and crumbled queso fresco. Mix these ingredients well to ensure they are evenly distributed.

Once the corn has cooled slightly, cut it off the cob and add it to the bowl with the other ingredients. Toss gently to combine.

Add a squeeze of fresh **lime** juice to the mixture, followed by a drizzle of olive oil. Stir well to coat all the ingredients evenly.

Season the salad with salt and pepper to taste. You can also add some **crushed** tortilla chips on top for added crunch if you prefer.

Mix in 1/4 cup of mayonnaise or Mexican crema, whichever you have on hand. This will help bind all the ingredients together and give the salad a creamy texture.

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Before serving, garnish the top of the salad with some additional **chopped** cilantro and a sprinkle of queso fresco. Serve chilled and enjoy your delicious **Spicy Mexican Street Corn Salad**!

Customization

Get Creative with Your Spicy Mexican Street Corn Salad:

To take your Spicy Mexican Street Corn Salad to the next level, let’s get creative with customization!

Here are some ideas to inspire you:

• Add some heat with diced jalapeños or serrano peppers

• Mix in some crumbled queso fresco for an extra burst of flavor and texture

• Throw in some chopped fresh cilantro for a pop of color and freshness

• Add some cooked, diced chorizo or Mexican sausage for added protein and spice

• Give it a sweet and smoky flavor with some caramelized onions or roasted chipotle peppers in adobo sauce

• Mix in some chopped fresh epazote for an authentic, slightly bitter flavor

• Add some crispy tortilla strips or croutons for a satisfying crunch

• Use different types of corn, such as frozen or canned corn, or even grilled or roasted corn on the cob

You can also experiment with different types of cheese, such as Oaxaca cheese or Asadero cheese, for a unique flavor and texture.

Don’t be afraid to get creative and add your own favorite ingredients to make this Spicy Mexican Street Corn Salad truly yours!

• Add diced cooked chicken or steak for extra protein

To take this delicious **Spicy Mexican Street Corn Salad** to the next level, consider adding some extra protein sources to make it more satisfying and filling.

One excellent option is to add diced cooked chicken, which can be seasoned with a blend of spices such as cumin, chili powder, and lime juice to give it a flavor boost that complements the corn salad perfectly.

An alternative protein source is grilled steak, thinly sliced into small strips or diced into bite-sized pieces. This adds a nice texture contrast to the dish and provides a rich, meaty flavor that pairs well with the creamy corn and tangy cotija cheese.

To incorporate these extra protein sources, simply heat some oil in a pan over medium-high heat and cook the chicken or steak until it’s fully cooked through. Then, chop or dice it into small pieces and add it to the corn salad just before serving.

Not only will this add more flavor and texture to the dish, but it will also make it more substantial and filling, making it a great option for a quick lunch or dinner. So go ahead and get creative with your protein sources – diced cooked chicken or grilled steak, whichever you prefer!

This customization is not only delicious but also flexible, allowing you to adjust the amount of protein according to your personal preferences and dietary needs. Whether you’re in the mood for something light and refreshing or something heartier and more filling, this spicy Mexican street corn salad recipe has got you covered.

• Mix in some crumbled queso fresco or feta cheese for an extra burst of flavor

The beauty of a delicious Spicy Mexican Street Corn Salad lies not only in its vibrant colors and tantalizing flavors but also in the flexibility to customize it according to one’s taste preferences.

One fantastic way to add an extra layer of flavor is by incorporating crumbled queso fresco or feta cheese. Queso fresco, a type of Mexican cheese, has a creamy texture and a mild tanginess that will complement the natural sweetness of the corn beautifully.

Feta cheese, on the other hand, offers a salty, crumbly texture that pairs perfectly with the bold flavors of the chili peppers, lime juice, and cilantro. By sprinkling either or both of these cheeses over your salad, you’ll experience an instant burst of flavor that will elevate this dish to new heights.

For those looking for even more customization options, consider adding some diced ham or chorizo for added protein or some chopped fresh herbs like parsley, basil, or chives for extra freshness. You can also adjust the level of heat by increasing or decreasing the number of chili peppers used in the recipe.

The possibilities are endless when it comes to customizing a Spicy Mexican Street Corn Salad, making this dish perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or even as a quick and easy meal during the week. So go ahead, get creative, and make this salad your own!

• Substitute chipotle peppers in adobo sauce for a smokier heat level

The concept of customization in cooking is a vital aspect that allows individuals to tailor recipes according to their personal preferences and dietary needs. In the case of the Spicy Mexican Street Corn Salad, one key area for customization revolves around achieving the desired level of heat.

For those seeking a smokier heat level, substituting chipotle peppers in adobo sauce is an excellent choice. Chipotle peppers are essentially smoked jalapeños that have been dried and have a rich, deep flavor profile. When combined with adobo sauce, which typically consists of a blend of spices, garlic, oregano, cumin, and vinegar, the result is a complex, smoky heat.

The key to incorporating chipotle peppers in adobo sauce into the Spicy Mexican Street Corn Salad lies in their versatility. You can add them at various stages of cooking or use them as a marinade for the corn and other ingredients beforehand. This allows you to achieve a depth of flavor that is both intense and well-balanced.

When substituting chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, it’s essential to keep in mind the overall heat level of your salad. If you’re looking for a milder flavor, start by adding just a small amount of chipotles and then adjust to taste. On the other hand, if you prefer an intense, smoky heat, feel free to add more chipotle peppers or use them as a key component in your marinade.

Another aspect of customization involves considering individual dietary needs and preferences. For example, some people may be gluten-intolerant and need to avoid traditional adobo sauce, which typically contains gluten. In such cases, you can opt for a gluten-free alternative or create a custom adobo sauce using gluten-free ingredients.

The beauty of the Spicy Mexican Street Corn Salad lies in its ability to accommodate various customization options while maintaining its authentic flavor profile. By substituting chipotle peppers in adobo sauce and adapting it to your personal tastes, you can create a truly unique dish that reflects your individuality and preferences.