Repost of an absolute favorite! Seriously make this! @MishkaMakesFood

Repost of an absolute favorite! Seriously make this! @MishkaMakesFood is a easy Mexican recipe that serves 4. 250 calories per serving. Recipe by The Plant Slant on YouTube.

Prep: 10 min | Cook: 5 min | Total: 20 min

Cost: $5.95 total, $1.49 per serving

Ingredients

  • 1 can White Beans (drained and rinsed)
  • 1 bag Frozen Corn (approx. 12‑oz; can be charred under broiler or with torch for extra flavor)
  • 1 bunch Fresh Cilantro (roughly chopped)
  • 1 tablespoon Smoked Paprika (adds smoky depth)
  • 2 tablespoons Light Mayonnaise (use the clearance brand for a lighter texture)
  • 2 tablespoons Greek Yogurt (optional; boosts protein but makes dressing slightly tangier)
  • 1/4 cup Cotija Cheese (crumbled; adds salty creaminess)

Instructions

  1. Char the Corn (Optional)

    Spread the frozen corn on a baking sheet and place under a hot broiler for 3‑4 minutes, turning once, until lightly charred. Alternatively, use a kitchen torch to toast the kernels.

    Time: PT5M

    Temperature: Broiler high

  2. Prepare Beans and Cilantro

    Drain and rinse the white beans. Roughly chop the cilantro leaves.

    Time: PT3M

  3. Make the Creamy Dressing

    In a small bowl, whisk together light mayonnaise, Greek yogurt (if using), smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt.

    Time: PT2M

  4. Combine Salad Ingredients

    In the large mixing bowl, combine the drained beans, charred corn, chopped cilantro, and any additional veggies you like (e.g., diced red bell pepper or red onion). Pour the dressing over the mixture and toss until evenly coated.

    Time: PT4M

  5. Fold in Cotija Cheese

    Gently fold the crumbled cotija cheese into the salad, reserving a small amount for garnish.

    Time: PT1M

  6. Serve or Store

    Serve immediately, or transfer to an airtight container for meal‑prep. Garnish with the reserved cotija before serving.

    Time: PT1M

Nutrition Facts

Calories
250
Protein
10 g
Carbohydrates
30 g
Fat
8 g
Fiber
6 g

Dietary info: Vegetarian, High Protein, Gluten‑Free

Allergens: Dairy, Eggs

Last updated: April 6, 2026

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Repost of an absolute favorite! Seriously make this! @MishkaMakesFood

Recipe by The Plant Slant

A protein‑packed, smoky, citrusy, and creamy Mexican‑style street corn salad perfect for meal‑prepping. White beans add protein, corn adds sweetness, and a tangy mayo‑yogurt dressing with smoked paprika ties it all together. Finish with fresh cilantro and crumbly cotija cheese.

EasyMexicanServes 4

Shop all ingredients on Amazon in one click • Printable PDF with shopping checklist

Source Video
16m
Prep
0m
Cook
10m
Cleanup
26m
Total

Cost Breakdown

$5.95
Total cost
$1.49
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • Char the corn to develop smoky flavor.
  • Whisk the dressing until smooth to avoid lumps.
  • Fold in cotija cheese gently to keep its texture.

Safety Warnings

  • Use oven mitts when handling the hot baking sheet under the broiler.
  • If using a kitchen torch, keep a fire‑extinguishing blanket nearby.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of Mexican street corn salad in Mexican cuisine?

A

Mexican street corn, or "elote," originated as a popular street food where grilled corn kernels are slathered with mayo, cheese, lime, and chili. The salad version adapts this concept for a portable, protein‑rich dish, keeping the smoky, creamy, and citrusy flavors that define traditional elote.

cultural
Q

What are the traditional regional variations of Mexican street corn salad in Mexico?

A

In central Mexico, elote salads often use cotija cheese and a squeeze of lime, while coastal regions may add chili powder or Tajín. Some versions replace mayo with crema or sour cream, and a few add chopped cilantro for freshness.

cultural
Q

How is Mexican street corn salad traditionally served in Mexico?

A

It is typically served as a side dish at festivals, markets, and family gatherings, either in a cup or on a plate, and eaten with a fork or spoon. The salad is enjoyed warm or at room temperature, often accompanied by fresh tortillas.

cultural
Q

What occasions or celebrations is Mexican street corn salad traditionally associated with in Mexican culture?

A

Street corn salad is a staple at fairs, birthdays, and holiday celebrations like Día de los Muertos, where its bright colors and bold flavors complement festive meals.

cultural
Q

What other Mexican dishes pair well with this smoky citrus creamy Mexican street corn salad?

A

It pairs beautifully with grilled tacos, carne asada, black‑bean burritos, or a simple quinoa‑lime bowl, providing a contrasting creamy crunch to richer proteins.

cultural
Q

What are the authentic traditional ingredients for Mexican street corn salad versus acceptable substitutes?

A

Authentic ingredients include fresh corn kernels, cotija cheese, mayo or crema, lime juice, smoked paprika or chili powder, and cilantro. Acceptable substitutes are frozen corn, feta for cotija, Greek yogurt for mayo, and light mayo for a lower‑fat option.

cultural
Q

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making smoky citrus creamy Mexican street corn salad?

A

Common errors include over‑charing the corn, which turns bitter, using too much mayo which masks the citrus, and mixing the salad too early, causing the corn to become soggy. Follow the critical steps: char corn briefly, whisk dressing smooth, and fold in cheese gently.

technical
Q

Why does this recipe use smoked paprika instead of regular paprika or chipotle powder?

A

Smoked paprika delivers a deep, wood‑smoked flavor that mimics the charred corn without adding extra heat, keeping the salad balanced. Regular paprika lacks the smoky nuance, while chipotle adds heat that can overpower the delicate citrus notes.

technical
Q

Can I make this smoky citrus creamy Mexican street corn salad ahead of time and how should I store it?

A

Yes, prepare the salad up to step 5 and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For the best texture, keep the dressing separate and combine just before serving, or give the salad a quick toss to re‑coat the corn.

technical
Q

What texture and appearance should I look for when making this Mexican street corn salad?

A

The corn should be lightly charred with a golden‑brown edge, the beans should be plump, and the dressing should coat the ingredients with a creamy, slightly glossy sheen. The salad should look vibrant with green cilantro speckles and white crumbles of cotija cheese.

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel The Plant Slant specialize in?

A

The Plant Slant focuses on plant‑forward, high‑protein meals that are simple, affordable, and designed for meal‑prep. The channel emphasizes whole‑food ingredients, balanced macros, and practical cooking techniques for busy home cooks.

channel
Q

How does the YouTube channel The Plant Slant's approach to Mexican‑inspired cooking differ from other cooking channels?

A

The Plant Slant adapts traditional Mexican flavors into protein‑rich, plant‑centric dishes, often swapping meat for beans or lentils and highlighting nutrient‑dense toppings like cotija cheese. Other channels may focus on authentic recipes, while The Plant Slant prioritizes nutrition and meal‑prep convenience.

channel

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