Mexican Street Corn Kale Salad

This Mexican street corn kale salad is the perfect summer side dish! With its vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients, it suits any gathering or meal. The combination of tender massaged kale with sweet corn, creamy cotija cheese, and zesty dressing makes it a standout choice for barbecues, picnics, or weekday lunches. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and packed with nutrients!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fresh Ingredients: The blend of fresh produce brings brightness to your plate.
• Quick Preparation: Ready in just 15 minutes, making it ideal for busy days.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a side or main dish; customize it with your favorite proteins.
• Nutritious Choice: Packed with vitamins from kale and healthy fats from avocado.
• Flavorful Dressing: The creamy cilantro lime dressing elevates the entire salad.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Mexican street corn kale salad, you’ll need a few essential tools to ensure smooth preparation.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Chef’s knife
• Cutting board
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and safe.
• Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for slicing ingredients efficiently.
• Mixing bowl: A large bowl allows you to mix all ingredients thoroughly without mess.
• Whisk: Ideal for combining the dressing ingredients smoothly.

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Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to create your delicious Mexican street corn kale salad:

For the Salad Base

• 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

For the Dressing

• 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

1. In a mixing bowl, add the chopped kale.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and lime juice (½ – 1 lime).
3. Massage the kale for about 2-3 minutes until it becomes tender.

Step 2: Cook the Corn

1. Boil water in a pot and add shucked corn.
2. Cook for 5-7 minutes until tender.
3. Remove from heat, let cool slightly, then cut kernels off the cob.

Step 3: Mix the Dressing

1. In a small bowl, combine Greek yogurt, fresh lime juice, chopped cilantro, minced garlic cloves, salt, and chipotle powder.
2. Whisk until well combined.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

1. In the bowl with massaged kale, add cooked corn kernels, crumbled cotija cheese, chopped red onion, and avocado slices.
2. Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently to combine.

Step 5: Serve

1. Transfer the salad to a serving dish.
2. Top with crushed tortilla chips for added crunch before serving.

Enjoy your refreshing Mexican street corn kale salad at your next meal!

How to Serve Mexican Street Corn Kale Salad

This vibrant Mexican Street Corn Kale Salad is not only delicious but also versatile. Here are some creative ways to serve it that will enhance your dining experience.

As a Standalone Lunch

• Enjoy this salad on its own for a refreshing and filling meal. The protein from the cotija cheese and healthy fats from the avocado make it satisfying.

With Grilled Chicken or Beef

• Pair this salad with grilled chicken or beef for a hearty dinner. The smoky flavors complement the freshness of the salad beautifully.

As a Taco Topping

• Use it as a topping for tacos. The crunch and flavor add an exciting twist to your favorite taco fillings.

At BBQs or Picnics

• Bring this salad to BBQs or outdoor picnics. Its bright colors and flavors will impress guests and make it a popular choice.

In Meal Prep Containers

• Pack this salad into meal prep containers for easy, healthy lunches throughout the week. It stays fresh and delicious when stored properly.

With Tortilla Chips

• Serve alongside tortilla chips for added crunch. This creates a fun, snackable option perfect for gatherings or movie nights.

How to Perfect Mexican Street Corn Kale Salad

To ensure your Mexican Street Corn Kale Salad is bursting with flavor, consider these helpful tips.

• Massage the kale well: This helps break down the tough fibers, making it more tender and easier to chew.
• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh corn, ripe avocados, and vibrant cilantro enhance the overall taste and texture of the salad.
• Adjust lime juice: Start with less lime juice when massaging the kale; you can always add more later for desired tartness.
• Make it ahead of time: Prepare the salad a few hours in advance to allow flavors to meld together, but add avocado just before serving to keep it fresh.
• Experiment with toppings: Feel free to add additional ingredients like cherry tomatoes or black beans for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Store leftovers properly: Keep any uneaten salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days.

Best Side Dishes for Mexican Street Corn Kale Salad

This colorful salad pairs wonderfully with many side dishes that complement its flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Grilled Vegetables
   Add smoky grilled veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus for a beautiful color contrast.

2. Quinoa Pilaf
   This nutty dish brings additional protein and fiber while enhancing your meal’s texture.

3. Black Bean Salsa
   A fresh salsa made with black beans adds protein and zest while pairing well with the salad’s creamy dressing.

4. Guacamole
   Creamy guacamole is always a hit! It adds richness that works perfectly alongside the tangy flavors of the salad.

5. Cornbread Muffins
   Sweet cornbread muffins provide a delightful contrast in texture and taste, making them an excellent companion.

6. Roasted Sweet Potatoes
   These provide natural sweetness and earthiness that balances out the freshness of the salad beautifully.

7. Cilantro Lime Rice
   Light fluffy rice flavored with cilantro and lime enhances the Mexican theme while being filling.

8. Chili Lime Shrimp Skewers
   For seafood lovers, skewers of shrimp seasoned with chili powder bring a tasty kick that pairs well with this hearty salad.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• When preparing the kale, avoid skipping the massaging step. It helps to soften the leaves and enhance flavors.
• Don’t forget the lime juice! This not only adds flavor but also helps tenderize the kale, making it more enjoyable.
• Be careful with the portion of salt. Adding too much can overpower other flavors; start with a little and adjust as needed.
• Avoid using too much dressing at once. Drizzle it gradually to achieve the perfect balance without overwhelming the salad.
• Don’t overlook the tortilla chip garnish. Adding them at the end keeps them crunchy and adds a nice texture contrast.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep salad components separate if possible, especially avocado, to maintain freshness.

Freezing Mexican Street Corn Kale Salad

• It’s not recommended to freeze this salad due to the texture changes in kale and avocado upon thawing.

Reheating Mexican Street Corn Kale Salad

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10 minutes, covered, to keep moisture.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals (30 seconds), stirring in between until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Warm gently over low heat for a few minutes, stirring frequently to avoid burning.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Mexican Street Corn Kale Salad?

Mexican Street Corn Kale Salad combines fresh kale with corn, cheese, and a zesty dressing. It’s a delicious twist on traditional street corn dishes.

Can I customize my Mexican Street Corn Kale Salad?

Absolutely! You can add ingredients like black beans, cherry tomatoes, or grilled chicken for added protein and flavor.

How do I make my Mexican Street Corn Kale Salad vegan?

To make it vegan, simply omit cotija cheese or use a plant-based alternative. You can also enhance flavors with nutritional yeast.

What are some serving suggestions for Mexican Street Corn Kale Salad?

This salad pairs perfectly with grilled meats or as part of a taco night spread. It’s ideal as a refreshing summer side dish.

Final Thoughts

The Mexican Street Corn Kale Salad is a vibrant and nutritious option that’s perfect for summer gatherings or meal prep. Its versatility allows you to customize it easily based on your preferences. Try this delightful salad today and enjoy its fresh flavors!