Mexican Street Corn Kale Salad

This Mexican street corn kale salad is the perfect blend of flavors and textures! It’s a vibrant summer side dish that brightens up any meal. Packed with fresh ingredients like sweet corn, creamy avocado, and tangy cotija cheese, this salad is not only delicious but also a feast for the eyes. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue, enjoying a picnic, or simply want a nutritious meal at home, this salad fits the bill. Its creamy cilantro lime dressing adds a unique twist that elevates the whole dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This salad comes together in just 15 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Flavorful Combination: The mix of fresh corn, creamy avocado, and zesty dressing creates an explosion of flavor in every bite.
• Versatile Side Dish: Pair it with tacos, grilled meats, or enjoy it on its own as a light lunch option.
• Healthy Ingredients: Loaded with nutritious ingredients like kale and avocados, this salad supports your health goals while satisfying your taste buds.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Its beautiful colors and tasty toppings make it an instant hit at any gathering.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Tools and Preparation

To make your Mexican street corn kale salad efficiently, gather some essential tools. These will help you prepare each ingredient with ease.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Chef’s knife
• Cutting board
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and safe.
• Mixing bowl: A large bowl allows you to mix all ingredients without spilling.
• Whisk: Perfect for blending the creamy dressing to achieve a smooth consistency.

Ingredients

Ingredients:
– 1 bunch green kale, leaves cut off the stem and chopped
– 2 ears of corn, shucked & silk removed
– ½ cup cotija cheese, crumbled
– ¼ cup red onion, chopped
– 1-2 avocados, sliced or diced
– Crushed tortilla chips, for garnish
– ½ – 1 lime, juiced (for massaging the kale)
– Olive oil, for massaging the kale
– ½ cup plain greek yogurt
– ¼ cup fresh lime juice
– ¼ cup cilantro, chopped (leaves & stems are fine)
– 2 garlic cloves
– ¼ tsp salt
– ¼ tsp chipotle powder

How to Make Mexican Street Corn Kale Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Kale

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped kale with ½ – 1 lime’s juice and a drizzle of olive oil.
2. Massage the kale gently for about 2-3 minutes until it becomes tender and slightly wilted.

Step 2: Cook the Corn

1. Bring a pot of water to boil.
2. Add shucked corn ears to the boiling water; cook for about 5 minutes until tender.
3. Remove from heat, let cool slightly, then cut the kernels off the cob.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

1. Add cooked corn kernels to the bowl with massaged kale.
2. Mix in crumbled cotija cheese, chopped red onion, diced avocado, Greek yogurt, lime juice, cilantro, minced garlic, salt, and chipotle powder.
3. Toss everything gently until well combined.

Step 4: Serve

1. Transfer your Mexican street corn kale salad to a serving platter.
2. Top with crushed tortilla chips for added crunch before serving. Enjoy!

How to Serve Mexican Street Corn Kale Salad

This Mexican street corn kale salad is a vibrant dish that can elevate any meal. Here are some creative ways to serve it, making your dining experience even more enjoyable.

As a Standalone Dish

• Enjoy it on its own as a light lunch or dinner option, packed with nutrients and flavor.

With Grilled Proteins

• Pair it with grilled chicken or shrimp for a complete meal. The smoky flavors complement the freshness of the salad.

In Tacos

• Use this salad as a topping for tacos. It adds crunch and creaminess that enhances the taco experience.

As a Picnic Side

• Take it along for picnics or outdoor gatherings. It holds up well and remains delicious even after sitting out for a while.

With Chips and Salsa

• Serve it alongside chips and salsa as part of an appetizer spread. The contrasting textures make for an exciting starter.

For Meal Prep

• Pack it in containers for healthy lunches throughout the week. It’s easy to prepare in advance and stays fresh.

How to Perfect Mexican Street Corn Kale Salad

To ensure your Mexican street corn kale salad is always a hit, follow these helpful tips.

• Massage the kale – Gently massage the kale leaves with lime juice and olive oil to soften them and enhance their flavor.

• Use fresh ingredients – Opt for fresh corn and ripe avocados to maximize taste and nutritional value.

• Experiment with spices – Feel free to adjust the chipotle powder according to your spice preference for a customized kick.

• Add extra toppings – Consider adding black beans or diced bell peppers for additional texture and nutrition.

• Make it ahead – Prepare the dressing in advance, but add it just before serving to maintain the salad’s crispness.

• Store properly – Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge to enjoy them later without losing freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Mexican Street Corn Kale Salad

Complementing your Mexican street corn kale salad with other dishes can create an unforgettable meal. Here are some great options:

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers – Marinated in spices, these skewers add protein and flavor balance.
2. Black Bean Quesadillas – Cheesy and hearty, these quesadillas pair well with the salad’s freshness.
3. Chili Lime Roasted Vegetables – A medley of seasonal veggies roasted with chili powder enhances your meal’s color and taste.
4. Spanish Rice – Fluffy rice cooked with tomatoes and spices provides a comforting side that complements the salad.
5. Corn Tortilla Chips – Crispy chips served with salsa or guacamole are perfect for dipping alongside your salad.
6. Mango Salsa – Sweet mangoes mixed with onions, cilantro, and lime add a refreshing zing that goes well together.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making the perfect Mexican street corn kale salad can be tricky if you’re not careful. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for.

• Skipping the Massaging Step: Not massaging the kale can result in a tough texture. To avoid this, drizzle olive oil and lime juice over the kale and massage it gently until it’s tender.
• Using Unripe Avocados: Unripe avocados will ruin your salad’s creaminess. Always choose ripe avocados that yield slightly when pressed.
• Overcooking Corn: Boiling corn too long makes it mushy. Cook the corn just until tender, about 5-7 minutes, to keep that crisp bite.
• Neglecting Seasoning: Forgetting to season the dressing may lead to bland flavors. Be sure to taste and adjust seasoning with salt or lime juice as needed.
• Not Chilling Before Serving: Serving the salad warm can affect its overall flavor and freshness. Allow it to chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving for best results.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Mexican Street Corn Kale Salad

• This salad is not ideal for freezing due to its ingredients; however, you can freeze just the corn for later use.
• If freezing corn, place in a freezer-safe bag and consume within 6 months.

Reheating Mexican Street Corn Kale Salad

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread salad on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish and heat in short intervals (30 seconds) until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Heat on low in a pan, stirring occasionally until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Mexican street corn kale salad.

What is Mexican Street Corn Kale Salad?

Mexican street corn kale salad is a vibrant side dish featuring fresh kale, grilled corn, cotija cheese, avocado, and a creamy cilantro lime dressing.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare most components ahead of time. Just combine everything right before serving to keep it fresh.

How do I customize my Mexican Street Corn Kale Salad?

Feel free to add other veggies like bell peppers or cherry tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrition!

Is this salad vegan-friendly?

To make it vegan, substitute cotija cheese with a dairy-free cheese alternative and use a plant-based yogurt.

What can I serve with Mexican Street Corn Kale Salad?

This salad pairs well with grilled meats, tacos, or as a refreshing side at summer picnics.

Final Thoughts

This Mexican street corn kale salad is not only delicious but also versatile. It’s perfect for summer gatherings or as a healthy lunch option. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite ingredients or swapping out dressings. Give it a try—you’ll love how fresh and satisfying it is!