Mexican Street Corn Salad (Esquites Recipe)

This Easy Mexican Street Corn Salad (Esquites Recipe) is the ultimate dish for taco night or summer BBQs. With its grilled sweet corn, roasted red pepper, and a zesty chili lime cream sauce, this salad bursts with flavor in every bite. Its vibrant colors and fresh ingredients make it a standout side dish that can elevate any meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of grilled corn, spices, and cream creates a deliciously unique taste.
• Quick and Easy: In just 20 minutes, you can whip up this delightful salad without any fuss.
• Versatile Side Dish: Perfect for summer gatherings, taco nights, or as a light lunch option.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with fresh veggies and beans, it’s a nutritious choice everyone will enjoy.
• Crowd-Pleaser: This dish appeals to both adults and kids alike, making it ideal for any occasion.

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Tools and Preparation

To prepare this Mexican Street Corn Salad (Esquites Recipe), you’ll need some essential tools to make the cooking process smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Essential for achieving that perfect char on the corn, enhancing its natural sweetness.
• Mixing Bowl: A large bowl is necessary for combining all ingredients without making a mess.
• Whisk: Helps to blend the chili lime cream sauce smoothly for even distribution in the salad.

Ingredients

For the Salad

• 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

For the Chili Lime Cream Sauce

• 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, approximately 375-400°F. This ensures that the corn gets that nice char.

Step 2: Prepare the Chili Lime Cream Sauce

In a small bowl, combine:
2 tablespoons mayo
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 and pepper

Whisk until everything is combined and smooth. Set aside.

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 cool slightly.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Once cooled, slice the corn off the cob into a large bowl. Add:
Diced roasted red pepper
Chopped fresh cilantro
Diced green onion
Crumbled cojita cheese
Rinsed black beans
Finally, pour in your prepared chili lime cream sauce.

Step 5: Toss and Serve

Using a spoon, gently toss all ingredients together until everything is well coated with the sauce. Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to enjoy!

How to Serve Mexican Street Corn Salad (Esquites Recipe)

Mexican Street Corn Salad, or Esquites, is a vibrant dish full of flavor and texture. It pairs wonderfully with various meals, making it a versatile side for any occasion.

As a Side for Tacos

• Tacos are the perfect match for this salad. The creamy chili lime sauce complements the spices in your favorite taco fillings.

With Grilled Meats

• Serve alongside grilled chicken or steak. The smoky flavors of grilled meats enhance the sweetness of the corn salad.

At Summer Barbecues

• Bring this dish to summer BBQs. Its refreshing taste provides a nice contrast to heavier grilled foods.

As a Light Lunch

• Enjoy it as a light lunch option. Add avocado or serve it over mixed greens for added nutrition and flavor.

With Chips

• Use tortilla chips for dipping. This makes for a fun appetizer or snack that everyone will love.

How to Perfect Mexican Street Corn Salad (Esquites Recipe)

To make your Mexican Street Corn Salad truly stand out, consider these helpful tips.

• Choose Fresh Corn: Fresh sweet corn will provide the best flavor and texture. Look for corn with bright green husks and plump kernels.

• Grill for Flavor: Grilling the corn adds a smoky depth to your salad. Make sure to achieve that char without overcooking it.

• Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to modify the amount of chili powder and chipotle based on your heat preference. Start with less if you’re unsure.

• Use Quality Cheese: Opt for authentic Cotija cheese, which adds a creamy and tangy touch unique to this dish.

• Let It Chill: Allowing the salad to chill in the fridge enhances the flavors, making every bite more delicious.

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

Mexican Street Corn Salad pairs well with many side dishes, enhancing your meal’s overall experience. Here are some great options:

1. Black Bean Tacos: Filled with seasoned black beans and topped with fresh salsa, these tacos complement the corn salad beautifully.

2. Guacamole: Creamy guacamole adds richness and pairs nicely with the salad’s freshness. Serve it with tortilla chips for dipping.

3. Grilled Veggies: A mix of seasonal vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers can add color and variety to your meal while being easy to prepare on the grill.

4. Rice & Beans: A classic combo that is hearty yet simple, providing an excellent base alongside your corn salad.

5. Cilantro Lime Rice: The zesty flavors of cilantro lime rice enhance the freshness of the Esquites and create a balanced plate.

6. Chips & Salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips served with fresh salsa is always a crowd-pleaser and works well as an appetizer before your main course.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Mexican Street Corn Salad (Esquites Recipe), there are a few common pitfalls that can affect the flavor and texture. Here’s how to avoid them:

• Using Raw Corn: Always grill or cook the corn before adding it to your salad. This enhances the sweetness and adds a smoky flavor that is essential for the best taste.
• Skipping the Chili Lime Sauce: The chili lime cream sauce is what makes this dish pop! Don’t skip it; make sure you whisk it together thoroughly for a uniform flavor.
• Not Cool Enough: Allow grilled corn to cool before cutting, as this prevents burns and makes slicing easier. Rushing this step can lead to uneven cuts and mess.
• Ignoring Seasoning: Taste test your salad before serving. Adjust with salt, pepper, or extra lime juice as needed to elevate the flavors.
• Overcrowding Ingredients: Mixing too many ingredients at once can lead to a mushy texture. Add ingredients gradually for better mixing and presentation.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Ensure the salad is completely cooled before sealing to avoid condensation.

Freezing Mexican Street Corn Salad (Esquites Recipe)

• It’s not recommended to freeze this salad due to the texture changes in corn and other fresh ingredients.
• If you must, store in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month, but expect some loss of quality upon thawing.

Reheating Mexican Street Corn Salad (Esquites Recipe)

• Oven: Preheat oven 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 warm throughout.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making this Mexican Street Corn Salad (Esquites Recipe), here are some answers:

What is Mexican Street Corn Salad (Esquites Recipe)?

Mexican Street Corn Salad, also known as Esquites, is a delicious salad made with grilled corn, spices, cheese, and creamy sauce.

Can I use frozen corn?

Yes, you can substitute frozen corn for fresh. Just ensure it’s thawed and drained before mixing into your salad.

How spicy is this recipe?

The spice level can be adjusted by varying the amount of chili powder or omitting it altogether if you prefer a milder flavor.

What can I serve with Mexican Street Corn Salad?

This salad pairs beautifully with tacos, grilled meats, or as part of any summer BBQ spread!

Final Thoughts

This Mexican Street Corn Salad (Esquites Recipe) is vibrant and full of flavor, making it an ideal side dish for any occasion. Feel free to customize with additional toppings like avocado or jalapeños for extra flair!