Mexican Street Corn Quinoa Salad
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A refreshing and vibrant Mexican Street Corn Quinoa Salad that’s perfect for summer gatherings or as a healthy side dish.
- Author: Alex Lee
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing and boiling
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Diet: Vegetarian
- 1 cup quinoa (uncooked)
- 2 cups water
- 2 cups corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned and drained)
- 1/2 red onion, diced
- 1/3 cup cotija cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 tablespoons lime juice (from 1–2 limes)
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt (or mayo for a richer version)
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Rinse the quinoa under cold water to remove bitterness.
- Combine quinoa and water in a pot, bring to a boil, then cover and simmer for 15 minutes or until water is absorbed. Let it cool.
- If using fresh corn, grill or sauté until lightly charred. If using frozen, thaw and lightly toast in a skillet.
- Dice the red onion and chop the cilantro.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, lime juice, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
- In a large bowl, combine cooled quinoa, corn, onion, cilantro, and dressing. Mix until well combined.
- Fold in the cotija cheese gently.
- Taste and adjust seasonings—add more lime, salt, or chili if needed.
- Serve immediately or chill for 30 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Can substitute Greek yogurt with mayonnaise for a creamier dressing.
- Adjust spice levels by varying the amount of chili powder.
- Perfect for meal prep; it keeps well in the fridge for a few days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 15mg