Mexican Cucumber Salad with Sweet Corn

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Mexican Cucumber Salad is a crowd-pleaser, bringing together fresh ingredients and exciting flavors in a way that's both simple and satisfying. The crisp cucumbers paired with the sweet corn and fresh cilantro create a colorful dish, while the tangy lime juice and a touch of chili powder add that authentic Mexican kick. It's light, refreshing, and full of healthy ingredients, making it an excellent choice for hot weather. Plus, it comes together in no time, so it’s perfect for a quick side dish or snack.

Ingredients

• 2 medium cucumbers, peeled and diced

• 1 cup fresh or frozen sweet corn (if using frozen, thawed)

• ½ red onion, finely chopped

• ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped

• 1 lime, juiced

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• ½ teaspoon chili powder (or to taste)

• Salt and pepper to taste

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. In a large bowl, combine the diced cucumbers, sweet corn, and red onion.

2. Add the chopped cilantro to the bowl and mix everything gently.

3. In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, chili powder, salt, and pepper.

4. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss everything to combine.

5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, adding more salt, chili powder, or lime juice if desired.

6. Serve immediately, or chill for about 30 minutes before serving for an even more refreshing taste.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves about 4-6 people, depending on portion sizes.

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Total time: 10 minutes (or 40 minutes if you choose to chill before serving)

Variations

• Add some diced avocado for extra creaminess.

• Try swapping fresh corn with grilled corn for a smoky flavor.

• For a spicier kick, you can add a chopped jalapeño pepper or a dash of hot sauce.

• Use red bell peppers or cherry tomatoes for extra color and flavor.

• For a dairy twist, sprinkle some crumbled queso fresco or cotija cheese over the top.

Storage/Reheating

This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. If you're planning to store it, avoid adding the dressing until you're ready to serve to prevent the salad from getting soggy. Since this is a fresh salad, it doesn’t need reheating.

FAQs

1. Can I use canned corn instead of fresh or frozen?

Yes, canned corn works as a substitute. Just be sure to drain and rinse it well before using.

2. Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep the ingredients ahead of time, but it’s best to add the dressing right before serving to maintain the crispness of the cucumbers.

3. Can I use a different dressing for this salad?

Absolutely! You can experiment with different dressings, such as a creamy yogurt dressing or a vinegar-based dressing for a tangier option.

4. What can I serve this salad with?

This salad is great as a side dish with grilled meats, tacos, or even as a topping for burrito bowls.

5. Is this salad spicy?

The salad has a mild spice level due to the chili powder. If you prefer a spicier kick, you can add jalapeños or hot sauce.

6. Can I add other vegetables to this salad?

Yes! Feel free to add diced tomatoes, bell peppers, or even shredded carrots for additional color and flavor.

7. Can I use lemon instead of lime?

While lime is traditional for Mexican salads, you can substitute lemon if you prefer. It will offer a slightly different flavor but still work well.

8. Can I use frozen cilantro?

Fresh cilantro is recommended for the best flavor, but if you only have frozen cilantro on hand, it can be used in a pinch. Just be sure to chop it finely.

9. Is this salad vegetarian?

Yes, this Mexican cucumber salad is completely vegetarian and can also be made vegan by ensuring the dressing is free of dairy.

10. How can I make this salad gluten-free?

This recipe is naturally gluten-free, so no changes are necessary to make it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

Conclusion

This Mexican Cucumber Salad with Sweet Corn is an easy-to-make, fresh, and flavorful dish that combines crunchy vegetables with a tangy dressing. It’s perfect for any occasion, from family dinners to potlucks or casual gatherings. With endless variations to suit your taste and dietary preferences, this salad is bound to become a favorite. Enjoy the burst of flavors and textures that make every bite exciting!