Street Corn Creamy Cucumber Salad
Street Corn Creamy Cucumber Salad is a refreshing, vibrant summer dish that combines smoky, sweet street corn with crisp cucumber, tossed in a luscious, creamy dressing. Perfect for cooling down on hot days, this salad is simple to make with fresh ingredients and offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures.
- Author: Lilly
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mexican-inspired
- Diet: Gluten Free
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh street corn kernels (grilled or fire-roasted)
- 1 large cucumber, peeled (optional) and diced
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise or Mexican crema
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice (about 1 lime)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 teaspoon chili powder or Tajin
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Prepare the Corn: Grill fresh ears of corn until slightly charred or roast corn kernels in a pan to develop smoky flavors. Allow the corn to cool completely before adding to the salad.
- Chop the Cucumber: Peel the cucumber if desired, then dice into bite-sized pieces. Remove seeds if you want a less watery texture.
- Mix the Dressing: In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise or Mexican crema, fresh lime juice, chili powder or Tajin, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy with a tangy, slightly spicy flavor.
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, gently toss the cooled corn kernels, diced cucumber, and chopped cilantro with the creamy dressing. Mix just enough to coat everything evenly without crushing the cucumbers.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld together. Serve chilled for the ultimate refreshing summer dish.
Notes
- Use freshly cooked corn for the best flavor and texture.
- Add the dressing gradually to keep the salad light and fresh, avoiding sogginess.
- Chill the salad before serving to enhance flavor melding.
- Grilling the corn adds a smoky depth that elevates the dish.
- Use fresh lime juice rather than bottled for optimal zestiness.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute mayonnaise with mashed avocado or coconut yogurt.
- Optional add-ins: toasted pepitas, chopped nuts, finely chopped jalapeños, fresh basil/mint/parsley, or crumbled Cotija/feta cheese.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Keywords: summer salad, street corn salad, creamy cucumber salad, grilled corn salad, Mexican salad, refreshing salad, gluten free