If you're a fan of big, bold flavors and fresh, creamy crunch, this Street Corn Creamy Cucumber Salad might just be your new go-to! This vibrant salad takes all the spicy, tangy charm of Mexican street corn and turns it into a refreshing, irresistible summer salad.

There's a perfect balance of smoky-sweet charred corn, crisp cucumber, and a creamy, zesty dressing kissed with lime and a little chili kick. It's the kind of dish that feels fancy enough for your next barbecue or picnic, but is so simple you'll want to make it for weekday lunches too.

Inspired by my love for elote and summer's bounty of cucumbers, this salad is a crowd-pleaser and a total flavor bomb. Get ready - this is one recipe you'll want to make on repeat!

Creamy cucumber and street corn salad garnished with cilantro and lime

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Fresh, crunchy, and creamy all at once - the ultimate summer texture bomb
Quick and easy with minimal prep - perfect for busy nights or easy entertaining
Brings together beloved street corn flavors in a lighter, veggie-packed salad
Fantastic make-ahead side for potlucks, picnics, and backyard BBQs
Easily customizable for spice level and dietary needs

Key Ingredients for Street Corn Creamy Cucumber Salad

See recipe card below for full list of measurements, ingredients, and instructions.

Fresh Sweet Corn

Corn is the star of this salad! Its natural sweetness and smoky char replicate the classic flavors of Mexican street corn (elote). You'll get the very best flavor if you grill or pan-sear the corn, but frozen or canned corn also works if fresh is out of season. For the sweetest bite, look for corn with bright green husks and plump, moist kernels.

Crisp Cucumbers

Cucumbers bring hydrating crunch and a refreshing balance to the salad's creamy base. You can use English (seedless) cucumbers for less bitterness and less excess liquid, or regular slicing cucumbers with seeds scooped out. For extra crunch, keep the skin on - just be sure to wash thoroughly!

Cotija Cheese

Cotija is a crumbly, salty Mexican cheese that provides authentic street corn flavor. It adds richness and savoriness to every bite. If you can't find cotija, feta cheese is a good substitute, though slightly tangier.

Lime Juice

Lime brightens every ingredient, adding zesty acidity that ties the whole salad together. Freshly squeezed lime is a must for the best zing. If you're out of limes, lemon juice can step in, but you'll get a different (yet still delicious) flavor.

Cilantro

A generous handful of chopped cilantro brings herbaceous freshness. If you're not a fan of cilantro, you can substitute flat-leaf parsley for a milder herb flavor - or skip it entirely if needed.

Street Corn Creamy Cucumber Salad cooking process

Instructions for Street Corn Creamy Cucumber Salad

See recipe card below for full list of measurements, ingredients, and instructions.

Char the Corn

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the corn kernels in a dry pan and cook, stirring occasionally, until some kernels are slightly charred and golden (about 5-7 minutes). Let cool slightly before proceeding. If using frozen corn, do not thaw; add straight to the skillet.

Prep the Vegetables

While the corn is cooling, dice the cucumbers into bite-sized pieces, finely chop the red onion, mince the jalapeño (if using), and roughly chop the cilantro.

Make the Creamy Dressing

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.

Assemble the Salad

Add the charred corn, diced cucumbers, red onion, jalapeño, and most of the cilantro to the bowl with the dressing. Stir gently to coat all the veggies in the creamy mixture. Add cotija cheese and lightly fold in, saving a little for topping.

Finish and Serve

Transfer to a serving platter or bowl. Sprinkle with the remaining cotija cheese, extra chili powder, and reserved cilantro. Serve with extra lime wedges on the side for squeezing!

Recipe Variations

Make It Vegan

Swap the mayonnaise and sour cream for your favorite vegan alternatives (cashew-based or soy-based work great), and use a plant-based feta or simply leave out the cheese for a still-creamy, zesty salad.

Add More Crunch

Mix in diced red bell pepper, thinly sliced radishes, or even some halved cherry tomatoes for extra color, crunch, and flavor.

Go Extra Spicy

Love heat? Add a pinch of cayenne or use a serrano pepper instead of jalapeño. You can also drizzle with hot sauce right before serving.

Use Different Herbs

Try chopped fresh mint or parsley if you're not a cilantro fan, or mix in a little green onion for an extra pop.

Try a Greek-Style Twist

Swap cotija for tangy feta, use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream, and throw in some chopped fresh dill for a Mediterranean-inspired version.

Serving Suggestions

Street Corn Creamy Cucumber Salad is a knockout side for grilled chicken, steak, or tacos. It's equally delicious with barbecue favorites like burgers or pulled pork. Garnish with extra lime wedges, fresh cilantro, and a sprinkle of chili powder for a festive touch. Pair with tortilla chips for an irresistible party dip!

Storage and Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Give the salad a quick toss before serving, as some dressing might settle. This salad is best enjoyed cold; reheating is not recommended, as the cucumbers will lose their crunch. Freezing is not advised, as it will affect the fresh texture.

Frequently Asked Questions About Street Corn Creamy Cucumber Salad (FAQ)

Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?

A: Yes! For the best texture, prep everything a few hours in advance and store in the fridge. Hold off on adding the dressing until just before serving to keep the cucumbers crisp.

Q: Can I use canned or frozen corn?

A: Absolutely. If using canned corn, drain and rinse well; for frozen, you can char straight from frozen, as noted in the recipe. Grilling fresh corn yields the best flavor, but it's delicious either way.

Q: Is this salad gluten-free?

A: Yes, the main recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just check your labels on store-bought mayo or spices to be sure.

Q: Can I double this recipe for a crowd?

A: Definitely! It scales beautifully - just multiply the ingredients and use a larger mixing bowl.

Thanks for stopping by! This Street Corn Creamy Cucumber Salad brings the party to any table with its fresh, bold flavors and creamy tang. If you give it a try, I'd love to hear how it turned out - leave a comment or rating below and let me know your favorite twist!