This Vegan Mexican Street Corn Salad (Gluten-Free, Allergy-Free) offers a delightful twist on the beloved grilled street corn. It’s perfect for summer gatherings, barbecues, or as a refreshing side dish for any meal. The combination of fresh corn, creamy plant-based dressing, and zesty lime makes this salad a standout choice that everyone can enjoy. Plus, it’s easy to make and packed with flavor!

Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- Fresh Ingredients
- Spices and Seasonings
- How to Make Vegan Mexican Street Corn Salad (Gluten-Free, Allergy-Free)
- Step 1: Grill the Corn
- Step 2: Cut Kernels from Cob
- Step 3: Prepare the Dressing
- Step 4: Combine Ingredients
- Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- How to Serve Vegan Mexican Street Corn Salad (Gluten-Free, Allergy-Free)
- As a Side Dish
- In Tacos
- With Chips
- On Top of Greens
- How to Perfect Vegan Mexican Street Corn Salad (Gluten-Free, Allergy-Free)
- Best Side Dishes for Vegan Mexican Street Corn Salad (Gluten-Free, Allergy-Free)
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Vegan Mexican Street Corn Salad (Gluten-Free, Allergy-Free)
- Reheating Vegan Mexican Street Corn Salad (Gluten-Free, Allergy-Free)
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What makes this Vegan Mexican Street Corn Salad gluten-free?
- Can I customize my Vegan Mexican Street Corn Salad?
- How can I make this salad ahead of time?
- What are some great pairings with this salad?
- Is this salad kid-friendly?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delicious salad in under 20 minutes.
- Bursting with Flavor: The mix of fresh ingredients creates a vibrant taste that will impress your guests.
- Versatile Serving Options: Perfect as a side dish or light main course, this salad fits various occasions.
- Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with wholesome ingredients, it’s a guilt-free option that doesn’t compromise on taste.
- Allergy-Friendly: This recipe is designed to be gluten-free and allergy-free, making it suitable for many dietary needs.
Tools and Preparation
To prepare this Vegan Mexican Street Corn Salad efficiently, having the right tools is essential.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot or grill
- Mixing bowl
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot or grill: Ideal for cooking the corn quickly and evenly, ensuring maximum flavor.
- Mixing bowl: Necessary for combining all the ingredients thoroughly without any mess.
- Sharp knife: A sharp knife makes it easier to cut the corn off the cob cleanly.

Ingredients
To make this Vegan Mexican Street Corn Salad (Gluten-Free, Allergy-Free), gather the following ingredients:
Fresh Ingredients
- 5 to 6 Ears of Corn (enough for 5 cups)
- 1/2 Cup Vegan/Soy-Free Mayo
- 1 to 2 TB Nutritional Yeast
- 1 TB Fresh Lime Juice
- 1 Tsp Lime Zest
- 1/4 Cup Chopped Cilantro
Spices and Seasonings
- 1/2 to 1 Tsp Chili Powder (to taste)
- 1/4 to 1/2 Tsp Black Pepper
- Salt (to taste)
- Smoked or Sweet Paprika (optional, to taste)
How to Make Vegan Mexican Street Corn Salad (Gluten-Free, Allergy-Free)
Step 1: Grill the Corn
- Preheat your grill or large pot of water.
- If grilling, place the cobs directly on the grill and cook until charred on all sides (about 10 minutes).
- If boiling, cook in salted water until tender (approximately 10 minutes).
- Allow the corn to cool slightly before handling.
Step 2: Cut Kernels from Cob
- Once cooled, use a sharp knife to slice down the length of each ear of corn to remove the kernels. Place them in a mixing bowl.
Step 3: Prepare the Dressing
- In another bowl, combine vegan mayo, nutritional yeast, lime juice, lime zest, cilantro, chili powder, black pepper, and salt. Mix well until smooth.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
- Pour the dressing over the corn kernels in the mixing bowl. Toss gently until everything is well coated.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Transfer your Vegan Mexican Street Corn Salad to a serving dish. Garnish with more cilantro or paprika if desired. Serve chilled or at room temperature!
How to Serve Vegan Mexican Street Corn Salad (Gluten-Free, Allergy-Free)
This Vegan Mexican Street Corn Salad is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or simply looking for a quick and refreshing side, this salad will elevate any meal.
As a Side Dish
- Pair with grilled vegetables for a colorful plate.
- Serve alongside tacos or burritos for a complete Mexican feast.
In Tacos
- Use as a filling for soft or hard-shell tacos.
- Add avocado slices for extra creaminess.
With Chips
- Scoop with tortilla chips for a fun appetizer.
- Drizzle with lime juice for an added zing.
On Top of Greens
- Serve over a bed of mixed greens for a fresh salad option.
- Top with additional cilantro and lime wedges for garnish.
How to Perfect Vegan Mexican Street Corn Salad (Gluten-Free, Allergy-Free)
To make your Vegan Mexican Street Corn Salad even better, consider these helpful tips. Achieving the perfect balance of flavors and textures will ensure everyone loves this dish!
- Use Fresh Corn: Freshly grilled corn enhances the flavor. Look for bright yellow kernels at the market.
- Adjust Spices: Customize the chili powder to match your heat preference. Start with less and add more to taste.
- Chill Before Serving: Letting the salad sit in the fridge for 30 minutes allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Add Extra Lime: A splash of lime juice boosts freshness and acidity, balancing out the richness of the mayo.
- Experiment with Herbs: Try adding fresh parsley or green onions alongside cilantro for an herbaceous twist.
Best Side Dishes for Vegan Mexican Street Corn Salad (Gluten-Free, Allergy-Free)
Pairing side dishes with your Vegan Mexican Street Corn Salad can create a delightful meal experience. Here are some fantastic options that complement its flavors perfectly.
- Grilled Zucchini: Smoky and tender, grilled zucchini makes a great complementary side.
- Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with black beans adds protein and texture to your meal.
- Guacamole: Creamy guacamole pairs perfectly, making it an irresistible addition to any plate.
- Chili-Lime Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with chili and lime enhance the overall flavor profile.
- Cucumber Salsa: This refreshing salsa balances the richness of the corn salad while adding crunch.
- Spicy Black Bean Dip: A creamy black bean dip offers a tasty contrast and pairs well with tortilla chips.
- Avocado Toast: Spread ripe avocado on whole-grain bread topped with lime zest for a simple yet delicious option.
- Vegetable Skewers: Colorful skewers of grilled peppers, onions, and mushrooms add variety and vibrancy to your table.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Vegan Mexican Street Corn Salad can be a delightful experience, but it’s easy to make mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them.
- Using Raw Corn: Fresh, grilled corn is key to this dish’s flavor. Always grill the corn until it’s slightly charred for that authentic taste.
- Skipping Seasoning: The right balance of spices enhances the salad. Don’t forget to adjust salt, chili powder, and paprika according to your taste.
- Overdressing the Salad: Too much dressing can make the corn soggy. Start with a small amount and gradually add more as needed.
- Ignoring Texture: A good salad has a mix of textures. Make sure to chop the cilantro finely and consider adding diced bell peppers for crunch.
- Not Allowing Cooling Time: If you serve immediately after cooking, the flavors may not meld well. Allow the salad to cool in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Vegan Mexican Street Corn Salad in an airtight container.
- It will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Keep it separate from other dishes to maintain freshness.
Freezing Vegan Mexican Street Corn Salad (Gluten-Free, Allergy-Free)
- Freezing is not recommended due to texture changes in corn when thawed.
- If necessary, store in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.
- Label containers with the date for easy identification later.
Reheating Vegan Mexican Street Corn Salad (Gluten-Free, Allergy-Free)
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm the salad in an oven-safe dish for about 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals of 30 seconds until warm; stir between intervals.
- Stovetop: Warm on low heat in a skillet while stirring gently until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some common questions about Vegan Mexican Street Corn Salad.
What makes this Vegan Mexican Street Corn Salad gluten-free?
This recipe uses only gluten-free ingredients like corn and plant-based mayo, making it safe for those avoiding gluten.
Can I customize my Vegan Mexican Street Corn Salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to add diced avocado, jalapeños for heat, or even black beans for extra protein and texture.
How can I make this salad ahead of time?
Prepare all ingredients and combine them just before serving. Alternatively, you can mix everything except the dressing a day in advance.
What are some great pairings with this salad?
This salad pairs well with grilled vegetables, tacos, or as a refreshing side dish at summer barbecues.
Is this salad kid-friendly?
Yes! The flavors are mild enough for kids and it’s packed with nutrients from fresh corn and veggies.
Final Thoughts
Vegan Mexican Street Corn Salad is a vibrant dish that captures the essence of summer meals. It’s easy to prepare and can be customized with your favorite ingredients. Whether served as a side or a main dish, it’s sure to impress your guests!
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
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Vegan Mexican Street Corn Salad
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
Description
Vegan Mexican Street Corn Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that captures the flavors of summer gatherings. This delightful salad features tender, grilled corn kernels tossed in a creamy, plant-based dressing with zesty lime and fresh cilantro. It’s a perfect addition to barbecues, picnics, or as a light main course that everyone will love. With its easy preparation and allergy-friendly ingredients, it’s an ideal recipe for any occasion, ensuring you can enjoy the taste of traditional street corn without any dietary concerns.
Ingredients
- 5 to 6 ears of corn (about 5 cups)
- 1/2 cup vegan mayo
- 1 to 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- 1 teaspoon lime zest
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- Chili powder, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Salt, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your grill or large pot for boiling. Grill the corn until charred on all sides (approximately 10 minutes) or boil in salted water until tender.
- Let the corn cool, then cut the kernels off the cob into a mixing bowl.
- In another bowl, mix vegan mayo, nutritional yeast, lime juice, lime zest, cilantro, chili powder, black pepper, and salt until smooth.
- Pour the dressing over the corn and toss gently until well coated.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Grilling or Boiling
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (approximately 200g)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 240mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg