Mexican Street Corn Salad (Esquites Recipe)

This Mexican Street Corn Salad (Esquites Recipe) is a vibrant and flavorful dish that shines at any gathering. Perfect for taco nights and summer BBQs, this salad combines grilled sweet corn, roasted red pepper, and creamy cojita cheese with a zesty chili lime cream sauce. Each bite bursts with freshness, making it an irresistible addition to your meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This salad can be ready in just 20 minutes, making it a quick side dish option.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of spices and fresh ingredients ensures every bite is packed with taste.
• Versatile Dish: It pairs well with tacos, grilled meats, or can be enjoyed as a stand-alone vegetarian option.
• Perfect for Gatherings: Ideal for summer parties, potlucks, or family dinners; it’s sure to impress your guests.
• Healthy Ingredients: Made with wholesome components like black beans and fresh veggies, this salad is nutritious and satisfying.

Tools and Preparation

To make the preparation process smooth, gather all the necessary tools beforehand. Having the right equipment on hand will help you create this delicious salad effortlessly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Essential for achieving that perfect char on the corn, enhancing its natural sweetness.
• Mixing Bowl: A large bowl allows you to combine all ingredients without spilling.
• Whisk: Helps mix the chili lime cream sauce smoothly for even flavor distribution.

Ingredients

Fresh Ingredients

• 7 ears of sweet corn, shucked
• 1 roasted red pepper, diced
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1/4 cup diced green onion
• 2/3 cup crumbled cojita cheese
• 1 cup low sodium black beans, drained and rinsed

Sauce Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons mayo (I use Dukes)
• 3 tablespoons plain yogurt
• 4 teaspoons lime juice
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/4 teaspoon chipotle chili powder
• salt & pepper

How to Make Mexican Street Corn Salad (Esquites Recipe)

Step 1: Preheat the Grill

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, aiming for about 375-400°F. This temperature is ideal for grilling corn.

Step 2: Prepare the Chili Lime Cream Sauce

In a small bowl, add:
mayo
plain yogurt
lime juice
smoked paprika
chili powder
chipotle chili powder
salt and pepper

Whisk these ingredients together until smooth. Set aside for later use.

Step 3: Grill the Corn

Place the shucked corn directly on the grill. Grill each side for about 3–4 minutes until slightly charred. Once done, remove from the grill and let it cool before slicing off the kernels into a large bowl.

Step 4: Combine All Ingredients

To the large bowl of grilled corn, add:
roasted red pepper
chopped fresh cilantro
diced green onion
crumbled cojita cheese
low sodium black beans
prepared chili lime cream sauce

Gently toss everything together using a spoon to ensure an even coating of sauce.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Transfer your Mexican Street Corn Salad (Esquites Recipe) to a serving dish and enjoy immediately! This salad is best served fresh but can be refrigerated for up to one day if needed.

How to Serve Mexican Street Corn Salad (Esquites Recipe)

Mexican Street Corn Salad, or Esquites, is a vibrant dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ or enjoying taco night at home, this salad adds a burst of flavor that complements many meals.

Pair with Tacos

• Tacos Al Pastor: The sweet corn salad balances the savory flavors of marinated pork.
• Grilled Chicken Tacos: The freshness of the corn salad elevates the grilled chicken’s taste.

As a Standalone Dish

• Light Lunch: Serve it chilled as a refreshing salad for lunch.
• Picnic Delight: Pack it up for a picnic; it holds well and is easy to transport.

Enhance with Extra Garnishes

• Lime Wedges: Add a squeeze of lime for an extra zesty kick.
• Extra Cotija Cheese: Sprinkle more cheese on top for richness.

How to Perfect Mexican Street Corn Salad (Esquites Recipe)

To make your Mexican Street Corn Salad truly unforgettable, consider these helpful tips. Each one will help you elevate this classic recipe to new heights.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh corn will give the best flavor and crunch. If it’s not in season, frozen sweet corn can be a great alternative.
• Grill the Corn Properly: Achieving that perfect char on the corn enhances its sweetness and adds depth.
• Balance Flavors: Taste as you go! Adjust lime juice and seasoning to fit your preference, ensuring the chili flavors are not overwhelming.
• Add Texture: Consider including diced avocado or crunchy radishes for extra texture and flavor.
• Chill Before Serving: Let the salad sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving; this allows flavors to meld beautifully.
• Experiment with Herbs: While cilantro is traditional, try adding fresh mint or parsley for a unique twist.

Best Side Dishes for Mexican Street Corn Salad (Esquites Recipe)

This colorful salad pairs well with many side dishes. Here are some ideal options to complement your meal:

1. Grilled Shrimp Skewers: Lightly seasoned shrimp on skewers are easy to grill and add a protein boost.
2. Black Bean Quesadillas: These cheesy quesadillas filled with black beans offer hearty satisfaction alongside the light salad.
3. Cilantro Lime Rice: This fluffy rice dish brings aromatic notes that match perfectly with Esquites.
4. Guacamole & Chips: A creamy guacamole served with crunchy tortilla chips makes for an irresistible appetizer.
5. Spicy Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with chili powder provide an excellent contrast to the fresh salad.
6. Fruit Salsa: A refreshing fruit salsa made with mango or pineapple offers a sweet balance against savory dishes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Mexican Street Corn Salad (Esquites Recipe) can be simple, but avoiding common mistakes is key to a great dish.

• Using fresh corn: Fresh corn is best for this recipe. Dried or frozen corn will not provide the same sweet flavor and texture.
• Neglecting the grill: Grilling the corn adds a smoky flavor that is essential for authentic esquites. Skipping this step can result in a bland salad.
• Overcrowding ingredients: Adding too many ingredients at once can overwhelm the dish. Stick to the recommended amounts for balanced flavors.
• Skipping seasoning: Proper seasoning enhances the flavors of your salad. Don’t forget to taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
• Ignoring freshness: Using stale or old ingredients will affect the overall taste. Always choose fresh produce and dairy for the best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep it chilled at all times to maintain freshness.

Freezing Mexican Street Corn Salad (Esquites Recipe)

• This salad does not freeze well due to its creamy dressing and fresh vegetables. It’s best enjoyed fresh.

Reheating Mexican Street Corn Salad (Esquites Recipe)

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, spread salad on a baking sheet, and heat for about 10 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Mexican Street Corn Salad (Esquites Recipe).

What is Mexican Street Corn Salad (Esquites Recipe)?

Mexican Street Corn Salad, or Esquites, is a flavorful dish made with grilled corn, spices, and creamy dressing. It’s often served as a side dish.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare all ingredients except the dressing ahead of time; mix them together just before serving for freshness.

What can I substitute for cojita cheese?

Feta cheese or queso fresco can be good substitutes if you can’t find cojita cheese, offering similar textures and flavors.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! The ingredients used in this Mexican Street Corn Salad (Esquites Recipe) are naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

Final Thoughts

This Mexican Street Corn Salad (Esquites Recipe) is not only delicious but also versatile. Perfect as a side dish for tacos or BBQs, you can customize it with your favorite toppings or spices. Enjoy the burst of flavors and try it today!