Experience the bold flavors of Mexican street corn in a refreshing and nutritious kale salad. This dish combines the smoky sweetness of grilled corn with creamy cotija cheese, fresh vegetables, and a zesty dressing. Perfect as a side dish or a light meal, Mexican Street Corn Kale Salad is a celebration of vibrant colors and delicious flavors that will delight your taste buds.
Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 4 cups chopped kale
- 2 ears of corn, grilled and kernels removed
- 1/2 cup cotija cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup red onion, diced
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and diced
- 1 avocado, diced
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Grilled Corn:
- Prepare the Corn:
- Heat the grill to medium-high heat. Grill the ears of corn, turning occasionally, until kernels are charred and tender, about 10 minutes. Allow to cool, then cut off the kernels from the cob.
Salad Assembly:
- Prepare Kale:
- In a large bowl, massage the chopped kale with a drizzle of olive oil for about 2-3 minutes to soften the leaves.
- Combine Ingredients:
- Add the grilled corn kernels, crumbled cotija cheese, diced red onion, chopped cilantro, diced jalapeño, and diced avocado to the bowl with kale.
Dressing:
- Make the Dressing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, lime juice, olive oil, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Toss Salad:
- Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients. Toss gently until everything is evenly coated with the dressing.
- Chill and Serve:
- Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Serve chilled, garnished with extra cotija cheese and cilantro if desired.
Cooking Notes
- Kale Preparation: Massaging kale helps to soften its texture and improve its flavor.
- Corn Grilling Tip: For a smokier flavor, grill the corn directly on the cob until slightly charred.
- Dressing Consistency: Adjust the amount of mayonnaise and lime juice to achieve your preferred dressing thickness and tanginess.
Variations
Grilled Chicken Addition
For a heartier meal, add grilled chicken breast strips or shredded rotisserie chicken to the salad.
Vegetarian Option
Substitute cotija cheese with feta cheese or a vegan cheese alternative to make this salad vegetarian-friendly.
Nutritional Benefits
Kale Benefits
Kale is packed with vitamins A, C, and K, as well as antioxidants and fiber, making it a nutritious addition to any meal.
Corn Benefits
Grilled corn adds natural sweetness and fiber to the salad, while also providing essential vitamins and minerals like folate and vitamin C.
Avocado Benefits
Avocado contributes healthy fats and creamy texture to the salad, along with vitamins E, K, and B vitamins.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
1. Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the components of the salad ahead of time and assemble just before serving to maintain freshness and texture.
2. How can I adjust the spiciness of the salad?
Adjust the spiciness by varying the amount of jalapeño used. For a milder flavor, use less jalapeño or omit the seeds.
3. What are some other cheese options I can use besides cotija?
You can substitute cotija cheese with queso fresco, shredded Monterey Jack, or even crumbled feta cheese for a different flavor profile.
4. Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This salad holds up well in the refrigerator for a few days, making it ideal for meal prep lunches or quick dinners.
Keto Version
Ingredients for Keto Version
- Replace corn with grilled zucchini or grilled bell peppers.
- Use a keto-friendly mayonnaise and adjust seasoning to taste.
Low Carb Version
Ingredients for Low Carb Version
- Substitute corn with grilled asparagus or grilled cauliflower florets.
- Use a low-carb dressing base such as Greek yogurt mixed with lime juice and spices.
Mexican Street Corn Kale Salad offers a vibrant and flavorful twist on traditional salads, combining fresh ingredients with a zesty dressing that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish at a barbecue or enjoying it as a light lunch, this salad is both nutritious and delicious. Customize it with your favorite additions or follow the keto and low carb variations to suit your dietary preferences.
Celebrate the flavors of Mexican street food with this easy-to-make salad that brings together the best of summer produce. Enjoy the crispness of kale, the sweetness of grilled corn, and the creaminess of avocado in every bite. Bon appétit!
