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Creamy Zesty Corn Salad with Cotija Lime Dressing

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A creamy, tangy, and spicy corn salad featuring fresh corn, Cotija cheese, and a zesty lime dressing. Perfect as a side dish for barbecues, picnics, or taco nights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups fresh corn kernels (about 5–6 ears) or frozen corn thawed and drained
  • 1 cup Cotija cheese, crumbled
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise (full-fat recommended)
  • 1/4 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt as substitute)
  • Juice of 2 medium limes (about 3 tablespoons)
  • 1 small jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste (start with 1/2 teaspoon salt)
  • Optional add-ins: chopped red onion, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper

Instructions

  1. Prep the corn: Slice kernels off the cobs if using fresh corn, aiming for about 4 cups. If using frozen, thaw and drain well. (About 10 minutes)
  2. Mix the dressing: In a mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, and minced garlic until smooth. (About 2 minutes)
  3. Add the corn and jalapeño: Toss the corn kernels and chopped jalapeño into the dressing and stir gently to coat evenly. (2-3 minutes)
  4. Fold in Cotija and cilantro: Add crumbled Cotija cheese and chopped cilantro, folding gently to combine. (About 2 minutes)
  5. Season to taste: Add salt and freshly ground pepper, adjusting seasoning as needed. (Under 1 minute)
  6. Chill for flavor fusion: Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
  7. Final stir and serve: Stir gently before serving. Add a splash of water or extra lime juice if too thick. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Notes

Use fresh corn for best texture and sweetness. If using frozen corn, thaw and pat dry to avoid watery salad. Fresh lime juice is preferred over bottled for brightness. Avoid overmixing after adding Cotija cheese to keep texture. Chill salad for at least 30 minutes to meld flavors. Wear gloves when chopping jalapeño to avoid irritation.

Nutrition

Keywords: corn salad, creamy corn salad, Cotija cheese, lime dressing, zesty salad, Mexican side dish, easy corn salad, jalapeño salad

Find it online: https://coracooks.com/creamy-zesty-corn-salad-with-cotija-lime-dressing-easy-recipe/