Save Brighten up your table with this Street Corn Creamy Cucumber Salad, a refreshing and vibrant dish perfect for summer gatherings. Combining the sweetness of corn with crisp English cucumbers and a zesty, creamy dressing inspired by Mexican street corn, this salad is both a visual delight and a flavor explosion.
Save This salad is remarkably versatile, serving as a light appetizer or a cooling side dish for spicy meals. Its combination of textures—from the crunch of the corn and cucumbers to the creaminess of the feta cheese—ensures a satisfying experience in every bite.
Ingredients
- Vegetables: 2 cups fresh corn kernels (about 3 ears; or canned/frozen), 1 medium English cucumber (diced), 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved), 1/2 medium red onion (finely chopped), and 1/4 cup fresh cilantro (optional).
- Cheese: 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled (substitute with goat cheese or omit for dairy-free).
- Dressing: 1/3 cup mayonnaise, 1/3 cup sour cream, 2 tablespoons lime juice, 1 teaspoon chili powder, salt, and black pepper to taste.
Instructions
- 1. Cook the Corn
- Boil fresh corn kernels for 5–7 minutes until tender-crisp. Drain and let cool. If using canned corn, skip cooking; if using frozen, thaw and pat dry.
- 2. Combine Base Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled corn, diced cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, chopped red onion, and cilantro.
- 3. Prepare the Dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, salt, and pepper until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- 4. Toss the Salad
- Pour the creamy dressing over the vegetable mixture and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
- 5. Garnish and Serve
- Top with crumbled feta cheese and additional cilantro. Serve immediately or chill for 30 minutes for a more refreshing temperature.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For the best results, ensure the corn is completely cooled before mixing it with the cucumbers to maintain their crispness. If using canned or frozen corn, make sure they are well-drained and patted dry to keep the dressing creamy rather than watery.
Varianten und Anpassungen
To lighten the dish, you can substitute the mayonnaise and sour cream with Greek yogurt. For a vegan version, simply use plant-based mayonnaise, sour cream, and your favorite dairy-free cheese alternative.
Serviervorschläge
This salad is an excellent side dish for grilled meats or tacos. It also works wonderfully as a festive dip served alongside crunchy tortilla chips.
Save Enjoy this delightful Street Corn Creamy Cucumber Salad at your next summer cookout. It is a simple, refreshing dish that brings a burst of Mexican-inspired flavor to every occasion!
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use frozen or canned corn instead of fresh?
Yes, you can substitute fresh corn with canned corn (drained well) or frozen corn (thawed and patted dry). Simply skip the cooking step for canned corn, and thaw frozen corn before mixing with the vegetables.
- → How long does this salad last in the refrigerator?
This salad tastes best when served fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The vegetables may release some moisture, so give it a quick toss before serving leftovers.
- → What can I use instead of feta cheese?
Goat cheese makes an excellent creamy alternative with a tangy flavor. For a dairy-free version, simply omit the cheese or use a vegan feta substitute. Cotija cheese also works well for authentic Mexican street corn flavor.
- → Is there a lighter dressing option?
Absolutely! Replace the mayonnaise and sour cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter, protein-rich version. The tangy flavor profile remains similar while reducing calories and fat content.
- → Can I make this salad vegan?
Yes, use plant-based mayonnaise, vegan sour cream, and dairy-free cheese or nutritional yeast. The flavors and creamy texture remain excellent while accommodating a plant-based diet.
- → What dishes pair well with this corn cucumber salad?
This salad shines alongside grilled meats like chicken, steak, or fish. It's also perfect with tacos, burritos, or as a topping for nachos. Serve with tortilla chips as a refreshing dip for summer gatherings.