Sargent Choice Test Kitchen: Elote Salad

To show the elote salad after it has been mixed.

Sargent Choice Test Kitchen: Elote Salad
November 20, 2024

Why We Chose This Recipe

This elote salad is a delicious snack! It also features ingredients used in Mexican cuisine, such as cotija cheese. It’s also a dorm-friendly snack that is easy to assemble.

Recipe Adapted From: seriouseats
Yield: Approximately 4 cups

Ingredients

  • 4 cups corn kernels (use canned for convenience, drained and rinsed)
  • 2 tablespoons mayo
  • 1/4 cup crumbled cotija cheese (or feta cheese as a substitute)
  • 1/2 cup vegetables (like tomatoes, zucchini, bell peppers, red onions)
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped cilantro
  • 2 tablespoons lime juice (freshly squeezed)
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (more to taste)
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Optional garnishes: extra chili powder, lime wedges, additional cilantro

Directions

  1. If using canned corn, drain and rinse thoroughly to remove excess salt. Pat dry with paper towels.
  2. In a bowl, whisk together the oil, lime juice, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
  3. Add the corn kernels, chopped vegetables, crumbled cheese, and cilantro to the bowl with the dressing. Mix until everything is evenly coated.
  4. While the salad can be served immediately, chilling it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes enhances the flavors. Serve chilled, garnished with extra chili powder, lime wedges, and additional cilantro, if desired.

Dorm Friendly Version

  • The ingredients in this recipe do not require cooking and can just be mixed together. This recipe calls for canned corn, which is already pre-cooked!

What We Liked

  • The oil and lime dressing perfectly complements the crisp vegetables.
  • The crunchy texture of the vegetables pairs wonderfully with the creamy cheese.
  • The combination of lime, tomatoes, and cilantro creates a fresh and tangy flavor.

Suggestions

  • If fresh cilantro and lime are not accessible, substitute with dried cilantro and bottled lime juice, adjusting quantities to taste.
  • If cotija or feta isn’t available, omitting the cheese or using any shredded cheese available can work, although the flavor profile will change.

Nutritional Value

  • The fiber of the tomatoes, corn, and zucchini featured in this recipe contributes to a satisfying fullness due to their water and fiber content.
  • Tomatoes are a great source of vitamin C, which aids in iron absorption.
  • Mayonnaise contains vitamin E, which is an antioxidant.
  • Cotija cheese is a great source of calcium, which is important for bone health.
November 20, 2024
Ashly Estrada, Nutrition Student