Savour the culture: Vegan elote salad inspired by Mexican tradition
Elote, or Mexican street corn, is a popular snack throughout Mexico. Traditionally served on the cob, it's renowned for its rich flavors and textures. Our vegan salad version preserves the authentic taste, making it enjoyable for all. Originating from Mexico's vibrant streets, this dish carries significant cultural heritage. Let's begin cooking and introduce a piece of Mexican cuisine to your table.
Gather the following ingredients
For this salad, gather four cups of corn kernels, one diced red bell pepper, half a cup of cilantro, one diced avocado, one-fourth cup of vegan mayonnaise, two tablespoons of lime juice, two minced garlic cloves, one teaspoon of chili powder, half a teaspoon of smoked paprika (optional), salt to taste, and crumbled vegan cheese for garnish.
Prepare the corn
Begin by cooking the corn kernels until they are tender and slightly charred. This can be achieved by grilling them on a barbecue for an authentic smoky flavor or sauteing them in a pan over medium-high heat for about ten minutes. The aim is to achieve golden-brown spots on the kernels, which enhances their sweetness and adds significant depth to the salad's flavor profile.
Mix the dressing
While the corn is cooling down slightly after cooking, prepare the dressing. In a small bowl, whisk together vegan mayonnaise, lime juice, minced garlic cloves, chili powder, smoked paprika (if using), and salt until well combined. This spicy and tangy dressing will coat every kernel and vegetable piece in the salad, giving it that signature elote flavor but in salad form.
Combine ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked corn kernels, diced red bell pepper, chopped cilantro, and diced avocado. Ensure an even distribution of all ingredients. Drizzle the prepared dressing from step two over the vegetable mix. Gently toss to coat all components evenly with the dressing. Taste test and adjust seasoning with more salt or lime juice as preferred.
Serve with garnish
Transfer your mixed salad into serving dishes, and then sprinkle generously with crumbled vegan cheese as a garnish. The cheese adds an additional layer of texture and creaminess, making each bite even more delightful. Serve immediately to enjoy the fresh and vibrant flavors of the Mexican vegan elote salad at your home. This dish promises a unique culinary experience with every spoonful.
