Mexican Street Corn Potato Salad

If you’re searching for a fresh and exciting way to upgrade your summer sides, this Easy Mexican Street Corn Potato Salad is exactly what you need. Combining the smoky, tangy flavors of classic Mexican street corn with tender, creamy potatoes, this salad bursts with vibrant colors, textures, and tastes that will brighten up any BBQ or family gathering. It’s easy to make, fun to share, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that brings a flavorful twist to traditional potato salad.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bold Flavor Fusion: The combination of smoky roasted corn, zesty lime, and creamy dressing creates a mouthwatering taste experience.
• Perfect Texture Blend: Tender potatoes and crunchy corn kernels deliver a delightful contrast in every bite.
• Vibrant Visual Appeal: A colorful mix of fresh herbs and spices makes it just as beautiful as it is delicious.
• Easy to Prepare: Simple, everyday ingredients make this recipe approachable for cooks of any skill level.
• Great for Gatherings: Ideal for potlucks, BBQs, or casual family meals where you want something unique yet familiar.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for straightforward ingredients that serve as the backbone of its amazing flavor. Each element plays a role in balancing creaminess, tanginess, and that iconic Mexican street corn spice vibe.

• Yukon Gold Potatoes: Their buttery flavor and firm texture hold up perfectly after boiling.
• Fresh Corn Kernels: Roasted or grilled for that slightly charred, smoky taste essential to Mexican street corn.
• Mayonnaise: Adds rich creaminess that binds everything together smoothly.
• Cilantro: Brightens the salad with fresh, herbal notes that contrast the creamy dressing.
• Lime Juice: Delivers the zesty kick that lifts all the flavors instantly.
• Cotija Cheese: Crumbled on top for a salty, crumbly finish similar to street corn.
• Chili Powder: Sprinkled in to replicate that lightly spicy, smoky essence.
• Green Onions: Offer a crispy bite and mild sharpness to balance richness.
• Garlic: Minced to infuse a warm, savory depth into the dressing.
• Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all the natural flavors.

Variations for Mexican Street Corn Potato Salad

This recipe is wonderfully versatile—feel free to tweak it to suit your taste buds, dietary needs, or what you have on hand. It adapts beautifully without losing its vibrant personality.

• Vegetarian-Friendly: Use vegan mayo and skip cheese for an equally delicious plant-based version.
• Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
• Bacon Addition: Toss in crispy bacon bits for a smoky, savory twist.
• Avocado Upgrade: Stir in chunks of creamy avocado to boost richness and add a smooth texture.
• Grilled Veggies: Mix in charred bell peppers or zucchini for more smoky depth and variety.

How to Make Mexican Street Corn Potato Salad

Step 1: Cook the Potatoes

Start by peeling and chopping the Yukon Gold potatoes into evenly sized chunks. Boil them in salted water until they’re fork-tender but not mushy, about 10 to 15 minutes. Drain and let them cool to room temperature.

Step 2: Roast or Grill the Corn

Remove kernels from fresh corn cobs and roast them in a hot skillet, or grill whole ears until lightly charred all over. This smoky flavor is what makes the salad truly shine.

Step 3: Prepare the Dressing

In a bowl, combine mayonnaise, lime juice, minced garlic, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk well to create a creamy, zesty dressing that will coat every bite.

Step 4: Mix Salad Ingredients

Once the potatoes are cool, gently toss them with the roasted corn, chopped green onions, and fresh cilantro. Pour the dressing over and fold everything together carefully to keep the potatoes intact.

Step 5: Add Cheese and Season to Taste

Sprinkle crumbled Cotija cheese over the salad and give it a final gentle mix. Adjust seasoning with extra lime juice, chili powder, or salt according to your preference.

Pro Tips for Making Mexican Street Corn Potato Salad

• Don’t overcook the potatoes: To maintain their shape and texture, keep an eye on them during boiling.
• Use fresh, in-season corn: Fresh kernels have the best sweetness and texture.
• Let it chill: Refrigerate for at least an hour before serving to let flavors meld beautifully.
• Toast your chili powder: A quick toast in a dry pan intensifies its smoky flavor.
• Gently fold: Mixing with care prevents turning the salad mushy.

How to Serve Mexican Street Corn Potato Salad

Garnishes

Brighten your salad with extra Cotija cheese, a sprinkle of chili powder, fresh cilantro leaves, and lime wedges on the side for added zing and a festive presentation.

Side Dishes

This salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats like chicken or steak, spicy sausages, or even as a stand-alone vegetarian option alongside fresh tortilla chips and salsa.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve it in colorful bowls for a vibrant display, or pack it into individual mason jars for easy, portable picnic options. You can also use it as a topping for tacos or burgers for a flavorful twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This salad tastes even better after flavors have melded overnight.

Freezing

Freezing isn’t recommended due to the texture of potatoes and fresh corn, which can become mushy or watery after thawing.

Reheating

Enjoy Mexican Street Corn Potato Salad cold or at room temperature for the best texture and flavor. Avoid reheating to preserve the fresh, creamy quality.

FAQs

Can I use frozen corn for this recipe?

Yes, frozen corn works well in a pinch; just thaw and sauté it to get a bit of that roasted texture before adding it to the salad.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Absolutely! All ingredients in this Mexican Street Corn Potato Salad are naturally gluten-free, making it safe for those with gluten sensitivities.

Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?

Definitely! Making it a few hours or even a day ahead allows the flavors to deepen for an even more delicious salad.

What cheese can I substitute for Cotija?

If Cotija isn’t available, feta cheese is a great alternative that offers a similar crumbly texture and salty bite.

How spicy is this salad?

The spice level is mild by default but can be easily adjusted by adding more chili powder or fresh jalapeños according to your preference.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Mexican Street Corn Potato Salad is a delightful way to bring bold flavors and fun to your next meal. Its fresh ingredients and colorful presentation make it a memorable dish that everyone will love. Don’t hesitate to give it a try—you might just have found your new favorite summer side!

Related Posts

• Italian Pasta Salad
• Mediterranean Orzo Pasta Salad
• Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

Print