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Flavorful Grilled Corn Elote Salad Recipe with Easy Chipotle Mayo and Cotija

grilled corn elote salad - featured image

A smoky, spicy, and creamy grilled corn elote salad featuring homemade chipotle mayo and crumbly Cotija cheese. Perfect for summer gatherings and quick side dishes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 ears fresh corn, husked
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 12 chipotle peppers in adobo, finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
  • 1/4 cup cilantro, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup Cotija cheese, crumbled
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Optional: 1 jalapeño, finely diced

Instructions

  1. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat (about 5-7 minutes).
  2. Grill the husked corn ears directly on the grill, turning every 2-3 minutes until kernels develop a nice char, about 10-12 minutes total.
  3. Let the corn cool for a few minutes, then carefully slice the kernels off the cob over a bowl.
  4. In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, finely chopped chipotle peppers, minced garlic, smoked paprika, and lime juice. Stir until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust salt or chipotle as desired.
  5. In a large bowl, toss the grilled corn kernels with chopped cilantro, diced jalapeño (if using), and the chipotle mayo until well coated.
  6. Sprinkle the crumbled Cotija cheese over the salad and gently fold it in.
  7. Adjust salt and pepper to taste. Optionally, add a squeeze of fresh lime juice before serving.
  8. Serve immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes to let flavors meld. Enjoy warm or cold.

Notes

Use medium-high heat to avoid burning the corn. Start with one chipotle pepper and adjust for desired heat. Fresh lime juice and cilantro brighten the flavors. Cotija cheese crumbles best when cold and fresh. The salad can be served warm or chilled and is best consumed within 2 days. For dairy-free, substitute Cotija with firm tofu or omit cheese.

Nutrition

Keywords: grilled corn salad, elote salad, chipotle mayo, Cotija cheese, summer salad, smoky corn, Mexican side dish