Mexican Street Corn Salad (Esquites Recipe)

This Mexican Street Corn Salad (Esquites Recipe) is a vibrant, flavorful dish that brings the taste of summer straight to your table. Perfect for taco nights, summer BBQs, or any gathering, this salad features grilled sweet corn, roasted red peppers, and a creamy chili lime sauce that makes every bite unforgettable. Enjoy it as a side dish or as a light main course; its versatility and mouthwatering flavors are sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bursting with Flavor: Each ingredient in this Mexican Street Corn Salad combines to create a deliciously rich taste that’s both savory and slightly tangy.
• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps and minimal cooking time, you can whip up this salad in no time.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a festive party, this salad fits right in.
• Healthy & Wholesome: Packed with fresh veggies and protein from black beans, this recipe is not only tasty but nutritious too.
• Customizable: Feel free to tweak the ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand!

Tools and Preparation

To make the Mexican Street Corn Salad (Esquites Recipe), gather your tools and prepare your workspace for an efficient cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Large bowl
• Small bowl
• Whisk
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Essential for achieving the smoky flavor of charred corn that makes this salad special.
• Large bowl: Provides enough space to mix all the ingredients without making a mess.
• Whisk: Helps create a smooth chili lime cream sauce that’s perfectly blended.

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, around 375–400°F. This ensures that the corn cooks evenly and gets those nice charred marks.

Step 2: Prepare the Chili Lime Cream Sauce

In a small bowl:
1. Add mayo, plain yogurt, lime juice, smoked paprika, chili powder, chipotle chili powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Whisk until combined and smooth. Set aside for later use.

Step 3: Grill the Corn

1. Place the shucked corn directly on the grill.
2. Grill each side for about 3–4 minutes or until slightly charred on all sides.
3. Remove from grill and let cool before slicing off the kernels into a large bowl.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

In the large bowl with grilled corn:
1. Add roasted red pepper, fresh cilantro, green onion, cotija cheese, black beans, and the prepared chili lime cream sauce.

Step 5: Toss & Serve

Using a spoon:
Gently toss all ingredients together until everything is coated with the sauce. Serve immediately or chill for later enjoyment!

How to Serve Mexican Street Corn Salad (Esquites Recipe)

Serving Mexican Street Corn Salad, or Esquites, is all about pairing it with the right dishes to enhance its vibrant flavors. This salad offers a refreshing crunch and a zesty kick that can complement various meals.

As a Side Dish for Grilled Meats

• Steak Tacos: The smoky flavor of grilled steak pairs beautifully with the sweet corn salad.
• Grilled Chicken: Juicy grilled chicken with spices complements the creaminess of the salad.

In a Wrap or Burrito

• Veggie Wraps: Combine the salad with roasted veggies in a tortilla for a hearty and healthy meal.
• Burritos: Add it to your favorite burrito fillings for an extra layer of flavor.

As a Standalone Snack

• Tortilla Chips: Use scoopable tortilla chips to serve the salad as a dip during parties.
• Mini Cups: Serve in small cups for easy grab-and-go snacks at gatherings.

How to Perfect Mexican Street Corn Salad (Esquites Recipe)

To ensure your Mexican Street Corn Salad shines, consider these simple tips. Each step helps enhance the flavors and texture of this delicious dish.

• Use Fresh Corn: Freshly grilled corn adds sweetness and crunch that frozen corn can’t match.
• Adjust Your Spices: Feel free to tweak the chili powder levels for your preferred spice level.
• Chill Before Serving: Allowing the salad to chill for 30 minutes enhances flavor melding.
• Experiment with Cheese: Try using feta or queso fresco if you can’t find cojita cheese for different taste profiles.

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

Pairing side dishes with Mexican Street Corn Salad can elevate your meal experience. Here are some delicious options that complement its flavors perfectly.

1. Grilled Shrimp Tacos: These flavorful tacos add a touch of seafood charm alongside the salad.
2. Black Bean Quesadillas: A hearty option that goes well with the salad’s lightness while adding protein.
3. Cilantro Lime Rice: The zesty rice enhances the fresh flavors of the corn salad wonderfully.
4. Avocado Salsa: A creamy avocado salsa provides a smooth contrast to the crunchy salad.
5. Spicy Roasted Potatoes: Crispy potatoes seasoned with spices make for a satisfying side dish.
6. Chips and Guacamole: Classic and beloved, this combination is sure to please everyone at your table.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Mexican Street Corn Salad (Esquites Recipe), it’s easy to overlook some key details. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Skipping fresh ingredients – Using canned corn instead of fresh can lead to a less vibrant flavor. Always opt for fresh sweet corn when possible.
• Overcooking the corn – Grilling the corn too long can make it tough. Aim for a light char, grilling for just 3-4 minutes on each side.
• Ignoring the seasoning – Under-seasoning can make the salad bland. Don’t forget to taste and adjust salt and pepper before serving.
• Not letting it chill – Serving immediately can miss out on flavor development. Allowing the salad to chill for 30 minutes enhances the taste.
• Using too much mayo – Adding excessive mayo can overwhelm the other flavors. Stick to the recipe’s measurement for a balanced creaminess.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• It lasts up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Mexican Street Corn Salad (Esquites Recipe)

• Can be frozen, but note that texture may change upon thawing.
• Use a freezer-safe container; best used within a month.

Reheating Mexican Street Corn Salad (Esquites Recipe)

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F and bake covered for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave – Heat in short intervals (30 seconds), stirring in between to prevent overheating.
• Stovetop – Warm gently over medium heat, stirring frequently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Mexican Street Corn Salad (Esquites Recipe) that might help you with your preparation.

What is Mexican Street Corn Salad (Esquites Recipe)?

Mexican Street Corn Salad, or Esquites, is a delicious mix of grilled corn, spices, cheese, and creamy dressing, served as a side dish or snack.

Can I use frozen corn?

Yes, you can use frozen corn if fresh isn’t available. Thaw and drain it well before mixing with other ingredients.

How spicy is this recipe?

The spice level depends on the chili powders used. Adjust them according to your taste preference for milder or spicier flavors.

What can I substitute for cojita cheese?

Feta cheese makes a great alternative if you can’t find cojita. It provides a similar crumbly texture and salty flavor.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! Making this salad a few hours before serving allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Final Thoughts

Mexican Street Corn Salad (Esquites Recipe) is not only bursting with flavor but also offers versatility as a side dish or main event. Feel free to customize it with your favorite veggies or proteins for added nutrition and taste. Try this delightful salad at your next gathering!