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Best Smoky Charred Corn & Cotija Elote Salad Recipe

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This smoky charred corn and cotija elote salad is a quick, easy, and crowd-pleasing side dish that brings the flavors of summer to any table. With charred corn, creamy lime dressing, and salty cotija cheese, it’s the perfect potluck or weeknight recipe.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 ears of fresh corn, husked and silk removed (or 4 cups frozen corn, thawed and patted dry)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup sour cream or Mexican crema
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice (from about 1 large lime)
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 clove garlic, minced finely
  • 1/2 cup crumbled cotija cheese
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro, plus more for garnish
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Char the corn: Heat a large cast iron skillet over high heat for 2-3 minutes until screaming hot. Add olive oil and swirl to coat. Carefully add corn kernels in a single layer (cut fresh corn off the cob first). Let sit undisturbed for 3-4 minutes, then stir and let sit another 2-3 minutes until kernels have deep black spots and smell smoky. Transfer to a large bowl to cool slightly.
  2. Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, smoked paprika, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt. Taste and adjust seasoning.
  3. Combine the salad: Pour dressing over slightly warm corn and fold gently to coat. Add crumbled cotija cheese and chopped cilantro, then fold again. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
  4. Let it rest: Allow the salad to sit at room temperature for at least 10 minutes before serving to let flavors meld.
  5. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle extra cotija, a pinch of chili powder, and fresh cilantro leaves on top. Serve at room temperature or slightly warm.

Notes

For best char, ensure pan is screaming hot and corn is dry. Do not stir too often. Let salad rest before serving for best flavor. Leftovers keep in fridge for up to 3 days; serve cold or reheat gently in a skillet.

Nutrition

Keywords: elote salad, charred corn, cotija, summer side dish, Mexican street corn salad, smoky corn salad

Find it online: https://lenatable.com/best-smoky-charred-corn-and-cotija-elote-salad-recipe/