Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This salad is not only refreshing but also packed with flavors that are both familiar and exciting. The combination of cool cucumbers, sweet corn, and tangy cotija cheese creates a perfect balance of textures and tastes. Plus, the dressing, with sour cream, mayonnaise, and chili powder, adds a creamy and zesty kick. It’s an easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing dish that pairs well with tacos, grilled meats, or even on its own.
Ingredients
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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2 tablespoons sour cream
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2 tablespoons mayonnaise
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½ cup crumbled cotija cheese (or feta)
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Zest and juice of 1 lime
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1 teaspoon chili powder
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1 garlic clove, minced
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2 cups chopped cucumbers
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1 cup frozen corn (thawed)
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¼ cup chopped cilantro
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¼ cup red onion, minced
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Sea salt, to taste
Directions
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In a bowl, stir together sour cream, mayonnaise, cotija cheese, lime zest and juice, chili powder, and garlic.
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Add chopped cucumbers, thawed corn, cilantro, and red onion to the bowl. Mix well to combine.
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Season with sea salt to taste and serve immediately.
Servings and Timing
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Servings: 4-6
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Prep Time: 10 minutes
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Total Time: 10 minutes
Variations
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Dairy-Free: Swap sour cream with a dairy-free alternative and use a dairy-free cheese similar to feta.
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Add Avocado: For extra creaminess and richness, add diced avocado.
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Spicy: Add a diced jalapeño or extra chili powder for a spicier version.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This salad is best served fresh but will still hold up for a short period. Avoid reheating, as it’s a chilled salad meant to be enjoyed cold.
FAQs
Can I use canned corn instead of frozen?
Yes, canned corn can be used in a pinch, though frozen corn is typically fresher.
Is there a substitute for cotija cheese?
Feta cheese makes a great substitute for cotija.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
It’s best enjoyed fresh but can be made a few hours ahead. Just keep it in the fridge until serving.
Can I add more veggies?
Yes! You can add bell peppers, tomatoes, or even radishes for a variation.
Can I make it spicier?
Absolutely! Add a minced jalapeño or a bit more chili powder to kick up the heat.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this salad is naturally gluten-free.
What is cotija cheese?
Cotija cheese is a crumbly, salty Mexican cheese. It’s similar to feta and can be found in most grocery stores.
Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?
Yes, Greek yogurt will provide a similar tangy flavor and creamy texture.
Can I freeze this salad?
It’s not recommended to freeze this salad, as cucumbers and corn can become watery once thawed.
What protein can I pair this salad with?
This salad pairs perfectly with grilled chicken, pork carnitas, or fish tacos.
Conclusion
This Mexican Cucumber Salad is a vibrant, easy-to-make dish that adds a fresh, tangy element to any meal. With just the right balance of flavors, it’s the perfect accompaniment to your favorite Mexican dishes. Enjoy it as a side, or make it the star of the show with tacos or grilled meats.
Mexican Cucumber Salad
This vibrant Mexican Cucumber Salad combines refreshing cucumbers, sweet corn, creamy cotija cheese, and a zesty dressing, bringing a fresh twist to your favorite street food, Mexican elote. Perfect as a side dish, it complements tacos, grilled meats, or is delicious on its own. Easy to make, gluten-free, and full of bold flavors, this salad is a crowd-pleaser!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
2 tablespoons sour cream
2 tablespoons mayonnaise
½ cup crumbled cotija cheese (or feta)
Zest and juice of 1 lime
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 garlic clove, minced
2 cups chopped cucumbers
1 cup frozen corn (thawed)
¼ cup chopped cilantro
¼ cup red onion, minced
Sea salt, to taste
Instructions
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In a large bowl, combine sour cream, mayonnaise, cotija cheese, lime zest and juice, chili powder, and minced garlic. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well-combined.
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Add chopped cucumbers, thawed corn, cilantro, and red onion to the bowl. Toss gently to combine all ingredients.
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Season with sea salt to taste.
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Serve immediately and enjoy the fresh, zesty flavors!
Notes
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For a dairy-free version, swap the sour cream and cotija with dairy-free alternatives.
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Add diced avocado for extra creaminess.
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Make it spicier by incorporating a minced jalapeño or more chili powder.
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Best served fresh, but can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days.
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