Esquites (Mexican Street Corn Salad) Recipe – Mexican Special
Esquites, also known as Mexican street corn salad, is a popular street food that brings together sweet corn kernels with a creamy lime dressing, a hint of spice, and the salty richness of Cotija cheese. This dish is a delightful combination of flavors and textures, making it a favorite at gatherings and street corners alike. Whether you’re looking for a savory snack or a side dish to complement your meal, this easy esquites recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings.
- Prep Time10 min
- Cook Time10 min
- Total Time20 min
For the Salad:
- 4 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels (about 4 ears of corn)
- 1 tablespoon butter or olive oil
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup Mexican crema or sour cream
- ½ cup cotija cheese, crumbled (or feta cheese as a substitute)
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 teaspoon chili powder or Tajín seasoning
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
Optional Garnishes:
- Extra cotija cheese
- Additional chili powder or Tajín
- Lime wedges for serving
Cook the Corn:
Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat.
Add butter or olive oil, then cook the corn for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until charred and golden brown.
Make the Dressing:
In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, crema, lime juice, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
Assemble the Salad:
Add the charred corn to the bowl with the dressing and toss to coat.
Stir in cotija cheese and chopped cilantro.
Serve:
Garnish with extra cheese, a sprinkle of chili powder, and lime wedges.
Serve warm or at room temperature as a side dish, dip, or taco topping.
Recipe Notes :
Vegetarian Esquites: This dish is naturally vegetarian. For a vegan version, substitute the mayonnaise with a plant-based alternative and use vegan cheese.
Corn on the Cob: For a smoky flavor, grill the corn on the cob before cutting off the kernels.
Tajín Seasoning: Sprinkle Tajín seasoning on top for an extra kick of flavor.
Meal Prep: Esquites can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Customizable Toppings: Add diced avocado, chopped cilantro, or a squeeze of hot sauce to personalize your esquites.
