Mexican Corn (Elote) Salad

Inspired by one of my favorite foods, this recipe combines sweet corn, creamy Greek yogurt, tangy lime, fresh cilantro, and salty cotija cheese for a side dish that's packed with flavor and surprisingly nutrient-dense. Corn often gets a bad reputation, but it's actually a whole grain that provides fiber, carbohydrates for energy, and important nutrients that support overall health.

I especially love serving this salad during the warmer months alongside grilled fish, chicken, or steak fajitas. It's colorful, satisfying, and easy to prepare ahead of time for gatherings, meal prep, or weeknight dinners.

Healthy eating doesn't have to be boring or restrictive. Sometimes it looks like enjoying foods you genuinely love while finding simple ways to add more nourishment to your plate. This elote salad is a perfect example of that balance!

Print

With ImageWithout Image

Mexican Corn Elote Style Salad

Yield: 4

Author: Sara Young

Prep time: 5 MinCook time: 10 MinTotal time: 15 Min

Ingredients

• 6 cups corn kernels, frozen
• ½ cup crumbled cotija cheese
• ¼ cup chopped cilantro
• ⅔ cup low-fat plain Greek yogurt
• 1 tbsp mayonnaise
• 2 tbsp lime juice
• 1 tsp chili powder
• ½ tsp cumin
• ¼ tsp cayenne pepper
• Dash of salt to taste

Instructions

1. Saute corn in a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat until charred. Take off heat once done, let cool slightly before next step (~3-5 minutes)
2. While corn cools, in a large bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lime juice, chili powder, cumin, cayenne, and salt.
3. Add corn, cotija cheese, and cilantro and gently fold together until evenly coated.
4. Chill for 15–30 minutes before serving
5. Garnish with additional cilantro, cotija, or lime wedges if desired.

Pair withgrilled chicken, fish, or beeffajitas for a delish side side or toss witharugula and spinach for a flavor powerhouse salad!

Nutrition Facts

Calories

264

Fat

10 g

Sat. Fat

4 g

Carbs

38 g

Fiber

5 g

Net carbs

33 g

Sugar

12 g

Protein

12 g

Sodium

574 mg

corn, Mexican

salad,