Mexican Street Corn Salad, also known as Esquites, is a fiesta of flavors that dances on your taste buds. Imagine the sweet crunch of fresh corn mingling with zesty lime, creamy cheese, and a sprinkle of chili powder—pure bliss in every bite. refreshing cucumber lime agua fresca.
This delightful dish takes you straight to the streets of Mexico, where vendors serve it up warm in cups. It’s perfect for summer barbecues or cozy family gatherings, making it a go-to recipe that everyone will rave about. watermelon mint cooler Get ready to impress your friends and family with this vibrant salad!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Mexican Street Corn Salad is incredibly easy to prepare and requires minimal cooking skills
- The flavor combination is out of this world, ensuring each bite is a savory delight
- Its colorful presentation makes it an eye-catching addition to any table
- Versatile enough for potlucks or as a side dish at dinner parties, it adapts to any occasion
There was that one time my cousin brought this Mexican Street Corn Salad to our family reunion. Everyone was so busy raving about it that my uncle almost forgot to tell the same old dad jokes he tells every year.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Fresh Corn: Use sweet corn on the cob for the best flavor; grill or boil until tender.
- Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice adds brightness; bottled juice just doesn’t cut it.
- Cotija Cheese: Crumbled Cotija offers a salty kick; feel free to substitute feta if needed.
- Chili Powder: Adds a smoky heat; adjust according to your spice tolerance.
- Mayonnaise: For creaminess; you can use Greek yogurt for a lighter version. strawberry shortcake ice cream sandwiches.
- Cilantro: Fresh cilantro brings herbal notes; omit if you’re one of those people who think it tastes like soap.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning; adjust according to your taste preferences.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below. For more inspiration, check out this easy chicken fajitas recipe recipe.
Let’s Make it Together
Start by preparing the corn: Grill or boil the corn on the cob until tender, about 10 minutes. You want that sweet aroma wafting through your kitchen.
Cut the kernels off the cob once cooled: Hold the cob upright in a bowl and carefully slice downwards with a sharp knife.
Mix together the dressing: In a large bowl, combine mayonnaise, lime juice, salt, pepper, and chili powder until smooth. This creamy concoction elevates the salad!
Add corn to the dressing: Fold in the corn kernels gently, ensuring every piece gets coated with that zesty goodness.
Top with cheese and cilantro: Sprinkle crumbled Cotija cheese and chopped cilantro over the salad. Toss lightly for an even distribution without mushing everything together.
Serve chilled or at room temperature: Enjoy immediately or let it sit for 30 minutes so those flavors can harmonize beautifully!
Now you are ready to enjoy your homemade Mexican Street Corn Salad! Perfect for sharing with friends or savoring all by yourself while watching your favorite show (no judgment here). So grab your fork and dig in!
You Must Know
- This Mexican Street Corn Salad (Esquites) is not just a side; it’s a fiesta in a bowl!
- With a mix of flavors and textures, it brings the essence of street food right to your table
- The vibrant colors and aromas will impress anyone at your gathering
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by grilling or boiling fresh corn until tender, then cut the kernels off before mixing with other ingredients for optimal flavor.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out toppings like cotija cheese for feta or add diced jalapeños for an extra kick, making it uniquely yours.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Serve chilled or let it sit at room temperature before enjoying.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve the best flavor, use fresh corn when in season
- If using frozen corn, ensure it’s well-drained before mixing into the salad
- Taste as you go to adjust seasonings according to your preference
The first time I made Mexican Street Corn Salad (Esquites), my friends couldn’t stop asking for seconds—it became our unofficial summer barbecue star! For more inspiration, check out this garlic parmesan smashed potatoes recipe.
FAQ
What is Mexican Street Corn Salad (Esquites)?
Mexican Street Corn Salad (Esquites) is a flavorful corn dish, typically served cold with various toppings. mini fruit popsicles with coconut milk.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this salad a day in advance; just add avocado right before serving.
What can I substitute for cotija cheese?
Feta cheese works great as a substitute if you can’t find cotija cheese at your local store.
Mexican Street Corn Salad
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Mexican Street Corn Salad, or Esquites, is a vibrant blend of sweet corn, zesty lime, creamy Cotija cheese, and a hint of chili powder. This refreshing salad brings the flavors of Mexico right to your table, making it the perfect side dish for summer barbecues and family gatherings. Easy to prepare and bursting with color, it’s sure to be a hit at any occasion!
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh corn kernels (about 4 ears of corn)
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup crumbled Cotija cheese (or feta)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions
- Grill or boil the corn until tender (about 10 minutes). Allow to cool.
- Cut the kernels off the cob and place them in a large mixing bowl.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, lime juice, chili powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Fold the dressing into the corn until well combined.
- Gently mix in Cotija cheese and cilantro.
- Serve immediately or chill for 30 minutes to enhance flavors.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Grilling/Boiling
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 390mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
