Name: Mexican Corn Salad Hot Dogs
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 2 ears Corn; 1 small Yellow squash; 1/4 cup Cilantro; 2 Limes; 1/2-1 Jalapeño; 2 Green onions; to taste Salt & pepper; 7 package Hebrew National All-Beef Franks; 7 Hot dog buns

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There’s something about summer barbecues that just makes me giddy, especially when the grill is sizzling with deliciousness. One of my absolute favorite dishes to whip up is Mexican Corn Salad Hot Dogs. Imagine a bright, sunny day, the smell of charcoal in the air, and the laughter of friends and family around you. As a child, my fondest memories were made at summer cookouts where hot dogs were the stars. Now, with a twist of fresh corn salad, these hot dogs are taken to another level of flavor and joy. The combination of sweet corn, zesty lime, and spicy jalapeño brings a refreshing take to a classic dish that everyone loves. Trust me, once you taste these, you’ll want to serve them at every gathering!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
30 mins

Prep Time:
20 mins

Cook Time:
10 mins

Difficulty:
Easy

Calories:
330 kcal

Protein:
14 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
15 g

Tools Used:
Chef’s Knife, Cutting Board, Wooden Spoon

Why Try This Mexican Corn Salad Hot Dogs

Why do I adore Mexican Corn Salad Hot Dogs? Let me count the ways!

1. A Burst of Freshness

The first thing that strikes you about this dish is the vibrant flavors. The fresh corn, sweet and juicy, evokes the essence of summer. Combined with the crunch of diced squash and the herbaceousness of cilantro, each bite is a burst of freshness that you can’t help but savor.

2. Easy to Prepare

Let’s be real; we all want something simple during busy summer days. This recipe is incredibly straightforward, perfect for those who want to enjoy the fun without spending all day in the kitchen. You can whip up the corn salad while the grill heats up, making it a seamless addition to your outdoor feasts.

3. Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a backyard barbecue, a picnic at the park, or a casual dinner with friends, these hot dogs fit right in. They’re versatile and can be served at various gatherings, making them a go-to recipe for any summer event.

4. Customizable Toppings

One of the best parts about Mexican Corn Salad Hot Dogs is how you can customize them to your liking. Want more spice? Add extra jalapeños. Prefer a creamier texture? Toss in a dollop of avocado or guacamole. The possibilities are endless, allowing everyone to create their ideal hot dog.

5. A Crowd-Pleaser

This recipe isn’t just for adults; kids love it too! The combination of flavors and textures makes these hot dogs a hit with everyone, ensuring that they’ll be gobbled up quickly at any event.

6. Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh ingredients not only enhances the flavor but also ensures you’re serving a healthier option compared to traditional hot dog toppings. Plus, who can resist the vibrant colors of the salad?

Essential Ingredients for Mexican Corn Salad Hot Dogs

When it comes to Mexican Corn Salad Hot Dogs, the ingredients play a crucial role. Each one brings its unique flavor and texture, contributing to a balanced and delicious meal. The star of the show is, of course, the fresh corn, which pairs beautifully with the crunchy yellow squash and zesty lime. Together, they create a comforting yet refreshing experience that’s hard to resist.

2 ears of Corn: Fresh corn is the heart of this dish. Sweet and juicy, it adds an irresistible flavor.
1 small Yellow squash: This veggie brings a delightful crunch and adds to the vibrant colors.
1/4 cup chopped fresh Cilantro: The herb adds a refreshing aroma and flavor that ties everything together.
2 Limes: Juiced for that tangy zest that elevates the dish.
1/2-1 Jalapeño: A touch of heat that can be adjusted based on your spice tolerance.
2 Green onions: These add a mild, oniony flavor and a pop of color.
Salt & pepper: Essential for enhancing the flavors of the dish.
7 Hebrew National All-Beef Franks: These hot dogs are juicy and flavorful, making them the perfect base.
7 hot dog buns: Soft and ready to hold all that deliciousness.

Cooking Method for Mexican Corn Salad Hot Dogs

Cooking up Mexican Corn Salad Hot Dogs is as easy as it is rewarding. The process begins with preheating your grill, setting the stage for those perfectly grilled hot dogs. While your grill is warming up, you’ll prepare the refreshing corn salad that tops these delectable franks. Let’s dive into the cooking instructions!

Start by preheating your outdoor grill until it’s hot and ready for cooking. This usually takes about 10 to 15 minutes but can vary depending on your grill type.
While the grill warms up, take your fresh ears of corn and cut the kernels off. Use a sharp knife, carefully slicing down the cob to collect those sweet kernels in a bowl. Make sure to also scrape the back of the knife along the cob to get the corn milk, which adds extra flavor to your salad.
Add the freshly cut corn kernels into a large mixing bowl. Then, take your yellow squash, finely dice it, and toss it into the bowl. This will add a nice crunch to the salad.
Next, chop up fresh cilantro and sprinkle it in. The aroma of the cilantro will awaken your taste buds.
Juice the limes and add the juice to the bowl. The lime juice will give a zesty kick to the salad, balancing the sweetness of the corn.
Now, finely dice the jalapeño, adjusting the amount based on your desired spice level. Add this to the bowl, along with chopped green onions, and season everything with salt and pepper.
Mix everything together gently, ensuring all ingredients are well combined. Taste the mixture and adjust any seasonings as needed. If you like, let it chill in the refrigerator for a bit to let the flavors meld.
Once your grill is hot, place the Hebrew National All-Beef Franks on it. Grill them according to your preference, turning occasionally to get even grill marks and ensure they’re heated through.
After the hot dogs are perfectly grilled, take your soft hot dog buns and place a grilled frank in each one.
Generously top the grilled hot dogs with the prepared corn salad. Serve immediately and enjoy the burst of flavors!

Things Worth Knowing

Cooking Temperature: Ensure your grill is adequately preheated to prevent the hot dogs from sticking and to ensure even cooking.
Fresh Ingredients Matter: Using fresh corn and cilantro will significantly enhance the flavor of your salad.
Adjusting Spice: You can control the heat by altering the amount of jalapeño or by omitting it altogether for a milder taste.
Chill the Salad: Letting the corn salad sit in the fridge for a while allows the flavors to develop and makes for a refreshing topping.

Substitutions and Tips

If you’re looking to elevate your Mexican Corn Salad Hot Dogs, here are some helpful tips and substitutions to consider:

Storage: Keep any leftover corn salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Freezing: You can freeze the corn salad for up to a month. Just ensure to leave out the fresh ingredients like cilantro until you thaw it.
Variations: Experiment with different toppings like avocado slices or a sprinkle of feta cheese for added creaminess.
Perfect Pairings: Serve these hot dogs with a side of tortilla chips and salsa for a complete Mexican-style meal.
Grilling Alternatives: If you don’t have a grill, you can also cook the hot dogs in a skillet or bake them in the oven at 400°F for about 10 to 15 minutes.

How to Serve Mexican Corn Salad Hot Dogs

Serving Mexican Corn Salad Hot Dogs is all about presentation and pairing. Here are some great ideas:

Serve Immediately: Make sure to serve the hot dogs while they are hot off the grill, topped generously with the corn salad.
Ideal Side Dishes: Pair with a light salad or coleslaw to balance out the richness of the hot dogs.
Occasions: Perfect for summer barbecues, tailgating parties, or even casual family dinners.
Condiment Bar: Set up a condiment station where guests can add their favorite toppings or sauces.
Seasonal Pairings: These hot dogs are fantastic with refreshing summer drinks such as lemonade or iced tea.
Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, keep them stored in the fridge for up to three days but consume the salad within a day for freshness.

FAQ

What sets Mexican Corn Salad Hot Dogs apart is the delightful pairing of grilled hot dogs with a fresh corn salad. The salad, made with sweet corn, lime juice, and crunch from yellow squash, adds a refreshing twist to a classic dish. This combination delivers a burst of flavor that you won’t find in traditional hot dog preparations.

Yes! You can prepare the corn salad a few hours in advance or even the day before your gathering. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge to keep it fresh. This makes it super convenient for busy days and allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Absolutely! You can easily adapt Mexican Corn Salad Hot Dogs by replacing the hot dogs with grilled vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms. This way, you still get that delicious corn salad topping while catering to vegetarian diets.

For a refreshing pairing, consider serving iced tea or lemonade alongside your Mexican Corn Salad Hot Dogs. The zesty and bright flavors of the drinks complement the vibrant corn salad perfectly, making for a delightful summer meal.

Conclusion

The charm of Mexican Corn Salad Hot Dogs lies in their vibrant flavors and the joy they bring to gatherings. They’re not just a meal; they’re a celebration of summer, friends, and fun. I encourage you to try this recipe at your next barbecue or casual dinner; it promises to be a hit! With every bite, you’ll remember the warmth of summer days.