Mexican Street Corn Kale Salad

This Mexican street corn kale salad is the perfect summer side dish! It’s vibrant, fresh, and packed with flavor, making it ideal for barbecues, picnics, or weeknight dinners. The combination of tender massaged kale, sweet corn, creamy cotija cheese, and zesty cilantro lime dressing sets this salad apart. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and can be made in just 15 minutes!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With only 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this delicious salad in no time.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of fresh corn, avocado, and tangy dressing creates a mouthwatering experience.
• Healthy Option: Packed with nutrients from the kale and avocados, this salad is a nutritious addition to any meal.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a side for tacos or grilled meats, or enjoy it on its own for a light lunch.
• Eye-Catching Presentation: The vibrant colors of this salad make it a stunning addition to your table.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Mexican street corn kale salad efficiently, gather the essential tools listed below.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Whisk
• Grater (for cheese)

Importance of Each Tool

• Large mixing bowl: Provides ample space to mix all ingredients without spilling.
• Knife: Ensures clean cuts for vegetables and easy preparation.
• Whisk: Helps combine the dressing ingredients smoothly for even flavor distribution.

Ingredients

For this delicious Mexican street corn kale salad, you’ll need the following:

• 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

Massage the chopped kale with olive oil and lime juice until tender:
1. Place the chopped kale in a large mixing bowl.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and squeeze lime juice over it.
3. Using your hands, massage the mixture for about 2–3 minutes until the leaves become softer.

Step 2: Cook the Corn

Get fresh flavors from the corn:
1. Bring a pot of water to boil.
2. Add shucked corn ears and cook for about 5–7 minutes until tender.
3. Remove from water and let cool slightly before cutting kernels off.

Step 3: Mix Ingredients

Combine all elements to create a flavorful blend:
1. In the same large bowl with massaged kale, add cooked corn kernels.
2. Stir in crumbled cotija cheese, chopped red onion, diced avocado, and garlic cloves (minced).

Step 4: Prepare Dressing

Create a creamy dressing that enhances flavors:
1. In a separate bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, fresh lime juice, cilantro, salt, and chipotle powder until smooth.
2. Pour dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently to coat evenly.

Step 5: Serve

Finish with toppings for crunch:
1. Transfer salad to a serving dish or individual bowls.
2. Garnish with crushed tortilla chips on top just before serving for added texture.

Enjoy your refreshing Mexican street corn kale salad as an exciting side dish or healthy lunch option!

How to Serve Mexican Street Corn Kale Salad

This vibrant and refreshing Mexican street corn kale salad can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch, a potluck dish, or an addition to your taco night, this salad fits the bill perfectly.

As a Standalone Dish

• Enjoy it straight from the bowl for a healthy meal packed with nutrients.

With Grilled Proteins

• Pair it with grilled chicken or shrimp for a satisfying meal that balances flavors and textures.

On Tacos

• Use this salad as a topping on tacos to add crunch and freshness to your favorite fillings.

As a Side for BBQs

• Serve it alongside grilled meats at your summer BBQs to complement the smoky flavors.

In a Wrap

• Roll it up in a tortilla with some additional protein for an easy and delicious lunch option.

How to Perfect Mexican Street Corn Kale Salad

To make your Mexican street corn kale salad truly shine, follow these helpful tips. They will enhance its flavor and texture while ensuring you get the most out of each ingredient.

• Massage the kale: This helps soften the leaves and makes them more palatable. Use lime juice and olive oil for best results.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh corn and ripe avocados will elevate the taste of your salad significantly. Look for seasonal produce.

• Adjust seasoning: Taste as you go! Add more lime juice or salt based on your preference.

• Chill before serving: Allowing the salad to sit in the fridge for about 30 minutes lets the flavors meld beautifully.

• Customize toppings: Feel free to experiment with toppings like pumpkin seeds or jalapeños for an extra kick!

Best Side Dishes for Mexican Street Corn Kale Salad

Pairing side dishes with your Mexican street corn kale salad can create a well-rounded meal experience. Here are some delightful options that complement this refreshing salad perfectly.

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers
   These juicy skewers add protein and work well with the salad’s flavors.

2. Black Bean Tacos
   Flavorful black beans wrapped in soft tortillas make an excellent vegetarian option alongside the salad.

3. Mexican Quinoa Bowl
   A nutritious quinoa bowl filled with veggies can enhance your meal while keeping it light.

4. Roasted Sweet Potatoes
   Their sweetness complements the tangy dressing of the salad beautifully.

5. Guacamole with Tortilla Chips
   Creamy guacamole paired with crunchy chips is always a crowd-pleaser at gatherings.

6. Elote (Mexican Street Corn)
   Keep the corn theme going by serving this popular dish, adding even more flavor to your table.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Mexican Street Corn Kale Salad, avoiding common mistakes can elevate your dish.

• Skipping the massage: Not massaging the kale can lead to a tough texture. Always massage it with lime juice and olive oil to soften it.
• Overcooking the corn: Boiling corn for too long can make it mushy. Grill or roast the corn briefly for that perfect crunch.
• Too much dressing: Adding excessive dressing can drown the salad. Start with a little and add more as needed for balanced flavor.
• Ignoring freshness: Using stale ingredients, especially the cilantro and avocado, affects taste. Always opt for fresh produce for the best results.
• Neglecting seasoning: Forgetting to season your salad can lead to blandness. A pinch of salt or spice enhances all flavors beautifully.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Best consumed within 2-3 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Mexican Street Corn Kale Salad

• Not recommended for freezing due to texture changes in kale and avocado.
• If needed, freeze only components like corn and dressing separately.

Reheating Mexican Street Corn Kale Salad

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals until warmed through, about 1-2 minutes total.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat, stirring gently until heated.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Mexican Street Corn Kale Salad.

What is Mexican Street Corn Kale Salad?

Mexican Street Corn Kale Salad is a vibrant dish combining massaged kale, fresh corn, cotija cheese, and a creamy dressing.

Can I customize the ingredients?

Absolutely! Feel free to add proteins like grilled chicken or swap greens if you prefer spinach or romaine.

How do I make this salad vegan?

To make a vegan version of Mexican Street Corn Kale Salad, substitute cotija cheese with a plant-based alternative and use vegan yogurt.

How long does this salad last in the fridge?

The salad stays fresh for about 2-3 days if stored properly in an airtight container.

Final Thoughts

Mexican Street Corn Kale Salad is not just delicious but also versatile. You can easily adjust ingredients based on your preferences or what’s in season. Try it today for a refreshing summer side that everyone will love!