Description
This Vegan Street Corn Salad is a creamy, tangy, and smoky twist on traditional Mexican elote. Featuring sweet corn sautéed to a light char and tossed with a zesty dairy-free creamy dressing made from vegan mayonnaise, lime, chili powder, and smoked paprika. Enhanced with fresh cilantro, jalapeño, and optional dairy-free feta cheese, this vibrant salad makes an ideal side dish for summer gatherings or a refreshing snack packed with bold southwestern flavors.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 4 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 jalapeño, finely chopped (optional)
Seasonings & Spices
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Dressing & Others
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 cup vegan mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 1/3 cup dairy-free feta (optional)
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil: Warm the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, preparing it to sauté the corn for that perfect char.
- Cook the corn: Add the corn kernels to the skillet and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the corn is lightly charred and aromatic, giving it a smoky depth.
- Cool the corn: Remove the skillet from heat and let the corn cool slightly to avoid wilting the fresh ingredients to come.
- Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the vegan mayonnaise, fresh lime juice, chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until well combined into a creamy, flavorful sauce.
- Combine main ingredients: Transfer the corn to a large mixing bowl, then add the finely diced red onion, chopped cilantro, and jalapeño if using.
- Add the dressing: Pour the prepared dressing over the corn mixture and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly with the creamy, tangy dressing.
- Add feta and serve: Fold in the dairy-free feta cheese if using, and serve the salad warm, at room temperature, or chilled according to preference.
Notes
- Using fresh corn provides the best flavor and texture, but frozen corn is a convenient and tasty alternative.
- For a brighter, more vibrant flavor, add extra fresh lime juice to the dressing.
- To deepen the smoky flavor, char the corn in a cast-iron skillet if available.
- Include diced avocado just before serving to add creaminess and richness to the salad.
- Ensure to use vegan mayonnaise to keep this recipe completely dairy-free and vegan.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
