Fiesta corn brings a burst of sunshine to your table, turning simple kernels into a lively mix of smoky, creamy, and bright flavors. Charred corn is tossed with Greek yogurt, fresh lime juice, chili powder, and a touch of honeyed apple juice for gentle sweetness. Cilantro and crumbled cotija add freshness and tang, while crispy tortilla strips bring playful crunch. Every spoonful of fiesta corn feels like a breezy beach celebration, comforting and full of color. It is an easy, zesty side that will quickly steal the spotlight at any meal.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This fiesta corn
- It’s a burst of flavor that brightens any meal.
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy days.
- Versatile as a side dish or a tasty snack.
- Made with fresh ingredients for a wholesome treat.
fiesta corn
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
- Add the corn kernels, chopped jalapeño, cilantro, and half of the cotija cheese to the bowl. Stir gently until everything is evenly coated.
- Give your mixture a taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. You want it to be just right!
- Transfer the fiesta corn to a serving dish. Sprinkle the remaining cotija cheese on top and garnish with extra cilantro for a pop of color.
- Serve immediately for a fresh taste, or refrigerate for 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together beautifully.
Notes
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 150 |
| Fat | 10g |
| Protein | 3g |
| Carbs | 15g |
Ingredients
Gather these simple ingredients to make your delicious fiesta corn!
- 2 cups corn kernels – fresh or frozen
- ¼ cup mayonnaise – for creaminess
- 2 tablespoons sour cream – adds tang
- ¼ cup crumbled cotija cheese – or feta for saltiness
- 1 jalapeño pepper – seeded and finely chopped for heat
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro – for freshness
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice – for zest
- ½ teaspoon chili powder – adds spice
- Salt and pepper – to taste
To learn more about the nutritional profile of sweet corn, visit the USDA FoodData Central entry.
How to Make Fiesta Corn
This delightful Fiesta Corn recipe takes just 10 minutes to prepare and 0 minutes to cook. Allowing it to chill for 30 minutes enhances the flavors, making it a perfect side dish for any gathering!
Step 1: Whisk the Base
In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
Step 2: Add the Corn
Add the corn kernels, chopped jalapeño, cilantro, and half of the cotija cheese to the bowl. Stir gently until everything is evenly coated.
Step 3: Taste and Adjust
Give your mixture a taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. You want it to be just right!
Step 4: Transfer and Garnish
Transfer the fiesta corn to a serving dish. Sprinkle the remaining cotija cheese on top and garnish with extra cilantro for a pop of color.
Step 5: Serve or Chill
Serve immediately for a fresh taste, or refrigerate for 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together beautifully.
Recipe Snapshot
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Category | Side Dish / Snacks |
| Cuisine | Mexican |
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
| Cook Time | 0 minutes |
| Extra Time | 30 minutes (resting) |
| Total Time | 40 minutes |
| Dietary | Vegetarian |
| Serves | 4 |
| Best Served | Chilled or at room temperature |
Pro Tips for Making Fiesta Corn
- Use fresh corn for the best flavor and texture.
- Grill the corn for a smoky taste that enhances the dish.
- Adjust the spice level by adding more or less chili powder.
- For creaminess, substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt.
- Top with fresh cilantro for a burst of color and flavor.
How to Serve this fiesta corn
- Top with crumbled feta or cotija cheese for a creamy finish.
- Serve alongside grilled chicken or shrimp for a complete meal.
- Pair with fresh lime wedges for an extra zesty kick.
- Use as a filling for tacos or burritos for a flavorful twist.
- Mix into a salad for a crunchy, colorful addition.
- Enjoy as a side dish at barbecues or picnics.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro for a burst of freshness.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing and enjoying your fiesta corn later is easy!
Storing Leftovers
- Allow fiesta corn to cool completely.
- Transfer to an airtight container.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing
- Let fiesta corn cool completely before freezing.
- Portion into freezer-safe bags or containers.
- Remove excess air to prevent freezer burn.
- Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.
Reheating
- Thaw frozen fiesta corn in the refrigerator overnight.
- Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
- Add a splash of vegetable broth for moisture if needed.
- Heat until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes.
Explore more easy breakfast recipes, quick lunch ideas, cozy dinner meals, tasty snacks, and delightful dessert.
FAQs
Here’s a helpful FAQ about this recipe:
1. Is Fiesta corn the same as Mexican corn?
Fiesta corn and Mexican corn are often used interchangeably, but they can refer to different things. Fiesta corn typically refers to a colorful mix of corn, peppers, and spices, while Mexican corn can refer to traditional street corn (elote) that is grilled and topped with cheese and spices. Both are delicious and share similar flavor profiles!
2. What’s in Fiesta corn?
Fiesta corn usually includes sweet corn, bell peppers, onions, and a zesty dressing made from lime juice, cilantro, and spices. You can customize it with additional ingredients like black beans or avocado for extra flavor and texture. It’s a vibrant and tasty dish!
3. Can you eat Fiesta ornamental corn?
While Fiesta ornamental corn is primarily grown for decoration, it is technically edible. However, it is not as sweet or tender as the corn varieties typically consumed. If you’re looking for a tasty corn dish, stick to sweet corn varieties instead!
4. What is the secret to great Mexican corn?
The secret to great Mexican corn lies in the seasoning and freshness of the ingredients. Using fresh corn, grilling it to enhance the flavor, and topping it with a mix of lime juice, cheese, and spices creates a deliciously zesty dish. Don’t forget to add a sprinkle of chili powder for that extra kick!
Final Thoughts
Fiesta corn is not just a dish; it’s a celebration on your plate! With its zesty flavors and vibrant colors, this easy recipe will transport you to a sunny street market in Mexico. So gather your ingredients, whip it up, and enjoy every delicious bite. Trust me, you’ll be back for seconds!