Incredible Mexican Street Corn Salad: Creamy, Tangy & 15 Min

✅ Vegan | Gluten-Free | Creamy & Tangy | Ready in 15 Minutes

Table of Contents

Introduction:

Craving the vibrant, smoky, and tangy flavors of authentic Mexican street food, but in a healthy, plant-based way? Our Incredible Mexican Street Corn Salad (often known as Esquites in its cup form) is precisely what you need! This vegan version flawlessly captures the essence of the popular street snack, transforming it into a creamy, dairy-free delight that’s both satisfying and utterly delicious.

The star of this Mexican street corn salad is the perfectly charred corn kernels, which develop a delightful smoky sweetness and a satisfying crunch. Paired with a zesty lime-infused dressing and aromatic spices, this vegan Esquites is a truly flavorful experience. It’s a deliciously healthy twist on a classic, perfect for a quick lunch, a vibrant side dish for your summer gatherings, or any time you desire a burst of bold, quick flavor in just 15 minutes!

Ingredients:

2 cups corn kernels (fresh or frozen, thawed)
1/4 cup vegan mayonnaise or cashew cream
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
1 tablespoon lime juice
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika or chili powder
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Char the Corn: Heat a large skillet (preferably cast iron) over medium-high heat. Add the corn kernels (no oil needed for charring) and toast them for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are slightly charred and tender. This step adds a crucial smoky flavor to your Mexican street corn salad. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Prepare the Dressing: While the corn cools, in a medium bowl, whisk together the vegan mayonnaise (or cashew cream), fresh lime juice, smoked paprika (or chili powder), ground cumin, a pinch of salt, and a dash of black pepper. Mix until smooth and well combined.
Combine & Serve: Add the toasted corn kernels and chopped fresh cilantro to the bowl with the dressing. Toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly.
Enjoy: Serve your Vegan Mexican Street Corn Salad warm for a truly comforting experience, or chill it for 10-15 minutes for a refreshing cold side salad or snack. It’s fantastic on its own or alongside tacos, burritos, or grilled vegetables.

Why You’ll Love This Vegan Esquites Salad:

This Incredible Mexican Street Corn Salad is a fantastic addition to your recipe repertoire. It’s a prime example of how quickly and easily you can create a truly flavor-packed, healthy meal. The balance of creamy texture from the vegan mayo/cashew cream, the sweetness of the charred corn, and the tanginess of the lime and spices creates an irresistible combination. It’s a quick, protein-packed, and highly satisfying 15-minute salad that everyone will love!

Health Benefits of Key Ingredients:

Every scoop of this Mexican Street Corn Salad is brimming with goodness:

Corn: A good source of dietary fiber, corn aids in healthy digestion and contributes to feelings of fullness. It also provides valuable antioxidants and essential B vitamins, important for energy production.
Vegan Mayonnaise / Cashew Cream: These dairy-free alternatives provide a wonderful creaminess and can offer healthy fats (like monounsaturated fats from cashews) without the cholesterol or saturated fat found in traditional dairy.
Lime Juice & Spices (Smoked Paprika, Cumin, Chili Powder): Beyond delivering the signature vibrant flavor, lime juice is rich in Vitamin C, an immune booster. Spices like cumin and chili powder can aid in digestion and offer anti-inflammatory properties.
Cilantro: This aromatic herb is more than just a garnish; it contains powerful antioxidants and has been linked to supporting the body’s natural detoxification processes.

From My Kitchen to Yours

This Incredible Mexican Street Corn Salad is more than just a quick recipe — it’s a celebration of bold flavors and wholesome ingredients. It brings the vibrant spirit of Mexican street food right into your home, in a creamy, tangy, and totally vegan package. Whether you’re whipping it up for a fast lunch, a flavorful side, or a light snack, this vegan Esquites salad will quickly become one of your go-to recipes.

Looking for more delicious and wholesome ideas? 👉 Explore our full collection of Healthy Vegan Recipes for more plant-based meals you’ll love!