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Quick Creamy Frozen Corn Elote Salad Recipe with Chilli Lime Mayo for Easy Summer Sides

quick creamy frozen corn elote salad - featured image

A quick and easy creamy frozen corn elote salad with a spicy chilli lime mayo dressing, perfect for summer sides and busy cooks. This flavorful salad combines frozen corn with tangy, creamy, and spicy notes for a refreshing dish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups (600g) frozen corn kernels
  • ½ cup (120ml) mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ¼ cup chopped cilantro (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • ½ cup crumbled cotija cheese or feta (optional)
  • 2 stalks green onions, thinly sliced

Instructions

  1. Measure about 4 cups (600g) of frozen corn kernels into a colander. Rinse briefly with warm water to thaw slightly and loosen any ice crystals. Drain well (about 3 minutes).
  2. In a large bowl, combine ½ cup (120ml) mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice, 1 teaspoon chili powder, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, and 1 teaspoon kosher salt. Whisk until smooth and creamy (2–3 minutes).
  3. Toss the drained corn into the bowl with the dressing. Stir gently with a spatula to coat every kernel without mashing them, keeping the salad light and fluffy (about 2 minutes).
  4. Fold in ¼ cup chopped cilantro and 2 thinly sliced green onions. If using, sprinkle in ½ cup crumbled cotija cheese or feta and mix gently.
  5. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, lime juice, or chili powder if desired (about 1 minute).
  6. Serve immediately for a slightly crisp texture or chill for 30 minutes to let flavors meld.

Notes

Avoid over-thawing the corn to prevent watery salad. Use fresh lime juice for best flavor. Adjust chili powder to taste. For smoky flavor, quickly sear corn in a hot dry skillet for 3–4 minutes before mixing. Salad holds well in fridge for up to 2 days but is best fresh or within 24 hours. Mayo is key for creamy texture; Greek yogurt or vegan mayo can be used as substitutes.

Nutrition

Keywords: corn salad, elote salad, frozen corn recipe, chilli lime mayo, summer side dish, quick salad, creamy corn salad