Creamy Mexican Street Corn Salad

This Esquites Mexican Elotes Salad is a vibrant, creamy delight that celebrates the flavors of Mexico. The sweet corn is perfectly complemented by the tangy dressing, while the smoky chili powder adds a bold flavor. The crumbled cotija cheese gives it a satisfying salty finish, making it a dish everyone will love.

Perfect for summer cookouts, backyard BBQs, or a casual dinner, this salad is sure to steal the show. You can easily customize the heat level by adjusting the amount of jalapeño or chili powder. Serve this alongside grilled meats, tacos, or as a standalone snack for a refreshing, satisfying treat.

Full Recipe:

• 4 cups corn kernels (fresh or frozen)

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise

• 1/2 cup sour cream

• 1/4 cup cotija cheese, crumbled

• 1 tablespoon lime juice

• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder

• 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped

• 1 tablespoon jalapeño, minced (optional)

Directions:

1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the corn kernels and cook, stirring occasionally, until the corn is lightly charred, about 5-7 minutes. If using frozen corn, cook until heated through and slightly caramelized.

2. Transfer the corn to a large bowl and allow it to cool slightly.

3. In a separate small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, smoked paprika, and salt and pepper.

4. Pour the dressing over the corn mixture and stir to combine.

5. Add the cotija cheese, cilantro, and jalapeño (if using). Stir gently to mix.

6. Serve chilled or at room temperature as a delicious side dish.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 7 minutes | Total Time: 17 minutes
Kcal: 220 kcal | Servings: 4 servings

Why Esquites is So Loved

Esquites is loved for several reasons. First and foremost, it’s the perfect combination of textures and flavors. The corn provides a satisfying crunch and natural sweetness, while the creamy dressing makes the dish rich and indulgent. The tanginess of lime and the salty depth of cotija cheese balance out the sweet corn, creating an experience that is both refreshing and indulgent. The addition of chili powder and sometimes jalapeños gives it a spicy kick, making it a true fiesta in your mouth.

Another reason why esquites is a favorite among many is its versatility. This dish can be served at practically any occasion, from family gatherings to cookouts, and even as part of festive meals. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats, tacos, or even as a standalone vegetarian dish. Whether you’re serving it as a snack at a picnic or a side dish at a barbecue, esquites will always be a crowd-pleaser.

Health Benefits of Esquites

While esquites is typically seen as a treat or indulgence, it can also offer some health benefits when prepared with fresh ingredients. Corn is a good source of dietary fiber, which is essential for digestive health. It also provides antioxidants, including lutein and zeaxanthin, which are beneficial for eye health. When paired with fresh cilantro and lime, esquites can provide a boost of vitamins A and C, as well as folate, which supports cell growth and metabolism.

In addition, esquites is a relatively low-calorie side dish that can be adapted to suit various dietary preferences. You can reduce the richness by using a lighter mayo or Greek yogurt, or skip the cotija cheese for a dairy-free version. Adding more vegetables, like bell peppers or tomatoes, is another way to increase the nutritional value of the dish while enhancing the color and flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

Esquites are incredibly versatile when it comes to pairing with other dishes. Here are a few ideas for serving esquites at your next meal:

• With Grilled Meats: Esquites pair beautifully with grilled chicken, beef, or pork. The smoky charred flavor of grilled meats complements the creamy and spicy corn salad.

• As a Taco Topping: Top your tacos with a generous spoonful of esquites for an added texture and flavor boost. It works well with both soft and crispy tacos, adding creaminess and a delightful crunch.

• At a BBQ: Serve esquites alongside classic BBQ dishes like grilled steaks, ribs, or burgers. Its creamy texture and spicy kick will provide the perfect contrast to the smoky, charred flavors of your grilled meats.

• On Its Own: Esquites can easily stand alone as a side dish or a light meal. Serve it in a small bowl for a refreshing snack or as an appetizer before a larger meal. You can even serve it as a dip with tortilla chips, making it perfect for parties and gatherings.

Mistakes to Avoid When Making Esquites

While esquites is relatively easy to prepare, there are a few mistakes to avoid that can affect the flavor or texture of the dish.

• Overcooking the Corn: If the corn is overcooked, it can become mushy and lose its satisfying crunch. Be sure to cook the corn just until it’s lightly charred or tender, but not too soft.

• Not Balancing the Flavors: Esquites is all about balance. If you use too much chili powder or salt, it can overpower the other flavors. Be sure to taste the dish as you go and adjust the seasoning to your preference.

• Skipping the Lime: Lime juice is a key ingredient in esquites. The tangy acidity from the lime balances out the richness of the dressing and adds a fresh brightness to the dish. Don’t skip this step for the perfect flavor profile.

• Not Using Cotija Cheese: Cotija cheese provides a salty, crumbly texture that is a signature element of esquites. While it can be tempting to substitute with other cheeses, such as feta, it’s best to stick with cotija for an authentic taste.

Creative Variations

While the traditional version of esquites is loved for its simplicity, there are several ways you can get creative with the dish by adding new ingredients or adjusting the flavor profile to your liking.

• Spicy Esquites: For those who enjoy a spicier kick, you can add chopped jalapeños or serrano peppers to the dish. This adds a nice heat that complements the sweetness of the corn.

• Vegan Esquites: To make esquites vegan, simply substitute the mayonnaise and sour cream with a plant-based alternative like cashew cream or avocado. You can also use vegan cheese instead of cotija for a fully dairy-free version.

• Cheesy Esquites: For a more indulgent version, add extra cheese. You can incorporate melted cheese into the dressing or sprinkle additional cotija on top before serving.

• Citrus Twist: Experiment with different citrus fruits like orange or grapefruit in place of lime. This will give the dish a unique flavor while maintaining its fresh and tangy profile.

Conclusion

Esquites is a delightful dish that brings the irresistible flavors of Mexican street food right to your table. Its combination of sweet corn, creamy dressing, zesty lime, and spicy heat makes it a truly satisfying side dish or snack. Whether you’re enjoying it as a stand-alone treat or serving it alongside grilled meats and tacos, esquites is sure to be a hit at your next gathering. Plus, its versatility and ease of preparation make it a great addition to any meal, from casual barbecues to festive celebrations.

So, whether you’re looking for a refreshing side for your next BBQ, a unique taco topping, or simply a delicious snack, esquites will never disappoint. With just a few simple ingredients and a little creativity, you can transform this classic Mexican dish into a new favorite in your recipe collection.