Mexican Street Corn Quinoa Salad 

This vibrant Mexican Street Corn Quinoa Salad brings together the irresistible flavors of traditional elote—charred corn, creamy Cotija cheese, zesty lime, and smoky spices—combined with protein-packed quinoa. Fresh add-ins like diced red pepper, green onion, cilantro, and optional mango or strawberries elevate the dish with bright colors, crunch, and sweetness . With quick prep and no complicated cook steps, it’s ideal for summer cookouts, potlucks, or a healthy weeknight dinner. Serve it chilled or at room temperature for a flavorful, filling experience in just about 25 minutes.

Ingredients

• 1 cup uncooked quinoa (yields ≈3 cups cooked) 
  
  

• 2 cups corn kernels (from 2‑3 ears charred or 12 oz frozen charred) 
  
  

• ½ cup diced red bell pepper (optional) 

• 6 green onions, thin-sliced 
  
  

• 1 cup chopped cilantro 
  
  

• 5 oz Cotija cheese, crumbled (plus extra for garnish) 
  
  

• (Optional) ½ cup diced mango and/or sliced strawberries for sweetness and color 
  
  

Dressing:

• ¼ cup sour cream 
  
  

• ¼ cup mayonnaise 
  
  

• 3 Tbsp lime juice 
  
  

• 1 tsp chili powder 

• ½ tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp kosher salt, ½ tsp cayenne, plus pepper to taste 
  
  

Directions

1. Cook quinoa according to package and let cool (~15 min) 

2. Char corn in a skillet over medium-high heat until slightly browned (~8 min), then let cool .
   
   

3. In a large bowl, combine cooled quinoa, charred corn, red pepper, green onions, cilantro, Cotija, and optional fruit.
   
   

4. In a separate bowl, whisk together sour cream, mayo, lime juice, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, cayenne, and pepper until smooth.
   
   

5. Pour dressing over salad mixture and toss until well coated.
   
   

6. Garnish with extra Cotija and cilantro and serve at room temperature or chilled.
   
   

Nutrients (per serving; makes ~8 servings)

• Calories: ~272 kcal
  
  

• Carbohydrates: 33 g
  
  

• Protein: 9 g
  
  

• Fat: 13 g (Saturated ~4 g)
  
  

• Sodium: ~427 mg
  
  

• Fiber: 4 g
  
  

• Sugars: 4 g
  
  

• Vitamin C, A & Calcium: Good source from peppers, lime & Cotija