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Dairy-Free Mexican Street Corn Quinoa Salad

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  • Author: samahkitchen
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Mexican
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

This Dairy-Free Mexican Street Corn Quinoa Salad is packed with charred corn, fluffy quinoa, creamy avocado, and a zesty lime dressing. It’s a healthy, plant-based twist on classic elote (Mexican street corn)—without the dairy!


Ingredients

Units Scale

For the Salad:

1 cup (185g) quinoa, rinsed

2 cups (480ml) water or vegetable broth

2 cups (300g) corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)

1 tbsp olive oil

1 red bell pepper, diced

1 small red onion, finely chopped

1 avocado, diced

1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

1 jalapeño, finely chopped (optional, for spice)

For the Dairy-Free Dressing:

3 tbsp olive oil

3 tbsp lime juice (about 12 limes)

1 tbsp apple cider vinegar

1 tsp maple syrup or agave

1 tsp chili powder

1/2 tsp cumin

1/2 tsp smoked paprika

1/2 tsp salt

1/4 tsp black pepper

For Toppings (Optional):

1/4 cup dairy-free feta (like Violife) or nutritional yeast

Extra cilantro and lime wedges


Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Quinoa

  1. In a saucepan, bring 2 cups water or vegetable broth to a boil.
  2. Add quinoa, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 12-15 minutes until all liquid is absorbed.
  3. Remove from heat, fluff with a fork, and let cool.

Step 2: Char the Corn

  1. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Add corn and cook, stirring occasionally, until lightly charred (4-5 minutes).
  3. Remove from heat and let cool.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

  1. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

  1. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, charred corn, bell pepper, red onion, avocado, jalapeño, and cilantro.
  2. Pour in the dressing and toss to coat.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy

  1. Top with dairy-free feta or nutritional yeast (if using).
  2. Garnish with extra cilantro and lime wedges.

Notes

  • Make It Spicier: Add more jalapeño or red pepper flakes.
  • Storage: Store in the fridge for up to 4 days in an airtight container.
  • Protein Boost: Add black beans, grilled chicken, or tofu.
  • Nut-Free Option: Omit nutritional yeast and use dairy-free cheese.