Mexican Street Corn Salad (Esquites Recipe)

This Mexican Street Corn Salad (Esquites Recipe) is a delightful combination of flavors and textures, making it the perfect side dish for taco night or summer BBQs. The charred sweet corn mixed with roasted red pepper, creamy cojita cheese, and a zesty chili lime sauce creates an irresistible treat. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just craving something fresh and tasty, this salad will surely impress with its vibrant colors and delicious taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe takes just 20 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of grilled corn, creamy dressing, and spices elevates this salad to a whole new level of deliciousness.
• Versatile Side Dish: Pair it with tacos, grilled meats, or serve it as a standalone dish at any summer event.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with fresh vegetables and protein-rich black beans, this salad is both nutritious and satisfying.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Its bright colors and bold flavors make it an appealing option for guests of all ages.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, gather these essential tools before you start preparing your Mexican Street Corn Salad.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Provides that smoky flavor by charring the corn perfectly.
• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining all the fresh ingredients without spilling.
• Whisk: Helps achieve a smooth consistency in your chili lime cream sauce.

Ingredients

Fresh Produce

• 7 ears of sweet corn, shucked
• 1 roasted red pepper, diced
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1/4 cup diced green onion

Cheese & Beans

• 2/3 cup crumbled cojita cheese
• 1 cup low sodium black beans, drained and rinsed

Creamy Dressing

• 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, about 375-400°F. This is crucial for achieving that perfect char on the corn.

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 while you prepare the corn.

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 the grill once done. Allow the corn to cool slightly before slicing it off the cob into a large bowl.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

In the large bowl of grilled corn:
1. Add diced roasted red pepper, chopped cilantro, green onion, crumbled cojita cheese, black beans, and your prepared chili lime cream sauce.
2. Using a spoon gently toss everything together until well coated with the sauce.

Step 5: Serve Your Salad

Your delicious Mexican Street Corn Salad (Esquites Recipe) is ready! Serve immediately as a refreshing side dish that everyone will love. Enjoy!

How to Serve Mexican Street Corn Salad (Esquites Recipe)

Serving Mexican Street Corn Salad, or Esquites, is a delightful way to enhance any meal. This vibrant salad adds a burst of flavor and color, making it perfect for various occasions.

As a Side Dish

• Perfect for taco night – This salad pairs excellently with tacos, complementing the spices and flavors.
• Great at BBQs – Serve alongside grilled meats for a refreshing contrast.

In Tacos

• Use as a filling – Add the salad directly into corn tortillas for a unique twist on traditional tacos.
• Top your favorite taco – Place a spoonful of this salad on top of your favorite taco for extra crunch and flavor.

As a Dip

• Serve with tortilla chips – Use the salad as a dip, scooping it up with crispy tortilla chips for a fun appetizer.
• Pair with pita bread – For a healthier option, try it with warm pita bread.

As a Main Dish

• Mix with quinoa or rice – For a heartier meal, serve the salad over quinoa or rice to create a satisfying bowl.
• Add grilled chicken – Top the salad with sliced grilled chicken for an easy main course.

How to Perfect Mexican Street Corn Salad (Esquites Recipe)

To make your Mexican Street Corn Salad truly shine, consider these helpful tips. They will elevate the taste and presentation of your dish.

• Choose fresh corn – Freshly shucked corn will have the best flavor. Look for sweet corn in season for optimal taste.
• Grill until charred – Ensure you grill the corn until it’s slightly charred to enhance its natural sweetness.
• Customize toppings – Feel free to add avocado or diced jalapeños for an extra kick and creaminess.
• Let flavors meld – Allow the salad to sit for at least 15 minutes before serving; this helps all the flavors blend beautifully.
• Use quality cheese – Opt for fresh cojita cheese as it provides an authentic flavor that is key to this recipe.
• Adjust spice levels – Tailor the chili powder and chipotle chili powder according to your heat preference.

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

Mexican Street Corn Salad makes an excellent addition to many meals. Here are some fantastic side dishes that pair well with this flavorful salad.

1. Grilled Chicken Tacos – Juicy chicken seasoned with spices wrapped in warm tortillas complements the freshness of the salad.
2. Black Bean Quesadillas – Cheesy quesadillas filled with black beans offer hearty satisfaction alongside the lightness of Esquites.
3. Cilantro Lime Rice – Fluffy rice tossed with fresh cilantro and lime juice enhances the zesty flavors of your meal.
4. Guacamole and Chips – Creamy guacamole pairs wonderfully with crunchy tortilla chips, making it a classic pairing.
5. Chili Lime Shrimp Skewers – Grilled shrimp seasoned with chili and lime create a tasty protein option that matches well with Esquites.
6. Roasted Sweet Potatoes – The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes balances perfectly against the tangy flavors of the salad.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

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

• Skipping the grilling step: Grilling the corn enhances its flavor. Make sure you grill it properly for that smoky taste.
• Not letting the corn cool: Adding hot corn to your salad can wilt the other ingredients. Allow the corn to cool before mixing.
• Overdressing your salad: Too much sauce can overpower the dish. Start with a little and add more as needed for balance.
• Ignoring ingredient freshness: Fresh ingredients make a difference. Use fresh cilantro and lime juice for the best flavor.
• Forgetting to season: A pinch of salt can elevate your salad. Don’t skip seasoning your dish before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Can be kept in the fridge for 3-5 days.

Freezing Mexican Street Corn Salad (Esquites Recipe)

• Not recommended, as freezing can change texture and flavor.
• If necessary, store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

Reheating Mexican Street Corn Salad (Esquites Recipe)

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals of 30 seconds, stirring in between until warm.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Mexican Street Corn Salad (Esquites Recipe):

What is Mexican Street Corn Salad (Esquites Recipe)?

Mexican Street Corn Salad, or Esquites, is a flavorful salad made from grilled corn mixed with spices, cheese, and creamy dressing.

Can I substitute ingredients in this recipe?

Yes! You can modify this recipe by adding avocado, using different cheeses like feta, or replacing black beans with other legumes.

How do I make this dish vegetarian?

The base of this Mexican Street Corn Salad is already vegetarian-friendly. Just ensure all sauces used are free from animal products.

What should I serve with Mexican Street Corn Salad?

This salad pairs well with tacos, grilled meats, or as a side at BBQs. It’s versatile enough for many occasions!

Final Thoughts

Mexican Street Corn Salad (Esquites Recipe) is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Customize it with your favorite veggies or spices to suit your tastes. Enjoy it at gatherings or simply as a delightful side dish!