Esquites (Mexican Street Corn Salad)

Rate this recipe
Be the first to rate
By Published

Have you ever walked down the streets of Mexico and caught a whiff of the tantalizing aroma of grilled corn?

Jump to recipePin it
Esquites (Mexican Street Corn Salad)
Prep
11 min
Cook
9 min
Total
20 min
Servings
4

Method

  1. Begin by melting the butter in a large skillet, preferably cast iron, over medium heat.

  2. Once the butter has melted, add the corn and salt (if using frozen corn, no need to defrost first).

  3. Cook the corn, stirring occasionally, until it is warmed through and turning golden on the edges. This should take about 5 to 8 minutes. If the corn starts jumping out of the pan, lower the heat to prevent it from spilling.

  4. Add the garlic to the skillet and cook until it becomes fragrant. This usually takes around 30 seconds. Then, remove the skillet from the heat.

  5. Allow the corn to cool for a few minutes, and then transfer it to a medium mixing bowl.

  6. In the same bowl, add the remaining ingredients - mayonnaise, optional jalapeño, lime juice, chili powder, optional cayenne, cheese, and cilantro.

  7. Stir all the ingredients together until they are well combined. If desired, taste the mixture and add additional salt if needed.

  8. To serve, divide the mixture between small cups and garnish each serving with a lime wedge. You can also sprinkle additional cheese and chili powder on top, if desired.

  9. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

About this recipe

Have you ever walked down the streets of Mexico and caught a whiff of the tantalizing aroma of grilled corn? The crispy kernels, slathered in a creamy and tangy dressing, topped with a sprinkle of spices and a generous squeeze of lime - this is the essence of Esquites, the beloved Mexican street corn salad.

The Origin of Esquites

Esquites traces its roots back to the Aztecs, who cultivated corn as a staple crop. Over the centuries, this humble grain evolved into a beloved street food across Mexico. Esquites, which means "toasted corn," is a celebration of the rich culinary traditions of the country.

The Perfect Combination

What makes Esquites so irresistible is the perfect combination of flavors and textures. The sweetness of the corn pairs beautifully with the tangy dressing made from lime juice and mayonnaise. The creaminess of the dressing is balanced by the crunch of diced onions and the heat of chili powder. It's a symphony of tastes that will leave your taste buds dancing with joy.

Grilling Magic

The secret to the smoky and charred flavor of Esquites lies in grilling the corn. As the corn grills, the sugars caramelize, creating a depth of flavor that cannot be replicated. The charred kernels add a delightful smokiness to the salad, elevating it to a whole new level.

How to Make Esquites

Making Esquites is a breeze. Start by grilling the corn until it's nicely charred. Once cooled, cut the kernels off the cob and transfer them to a bowl. In a separate bowl, whisk together lime juice, mayonnaise, and chili powder. Pour this dressing over the corn and toss it well. Finally, add diced onions, chopped cilantro, crumbled cheese, and a squeeze of lime. Give it a final toss and your Esquites is ready to be devoured.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Esquites is not just a street food delicacy. It's a versatile dish that can be served as a side dish, a snack, or even as a main course. Whether you're hosting a backyard barbecue, a casual get-together, or simply craving a flavorful bite, Esquites never fails to impress.

In Conclusion

Esquites is more than just a salad; it's a celebration of the vibrant flavors of Mexican street food. With its smoky, tangy, and creamy goodness, it's no wonder that Esquites has captured the hearts and taste buds of people all over the world. So the next time you're craving a taste of Mexico, whip up a bowl of Esquites and transport yourself to the bustling streets of Mexico City. ¡Buen provecho!

Frequently asked questions

. What is the best way to grill the corn for Esquites?

Grilling the corn over medium-high heat until it's nicely charred is the best way to achieve that smoky flavor.

. Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh corn?

While fresh corn is preferred, you can use frozen corn if fresh corn is not available. Just make sure to thaw the corn before grilling.

. Can I make Esquites ahead of time?

Esquites is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the components ahead of time and assemble them just before serving.

. Can I make Esquites without mayonnaise?

Yes, you can substitute the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or sour cream for a lighter version of Esquites.

. How spicy is Esquites?

The level of spiciness in Esquites can be adjusted according to your taste. You can add more or less chili powder depending on how much heat you prefer.

. Can I add other ingredients to Esquites?

Absolutely! Esquites is a versatile dish, and you can add ingredients like chopped tomatoes, avocado, or even cooked shrimp to give it your own personal touch.

. What can I serve with Esquites?

Esquites pairs well with grilled meats, tacos, quesadillas, or simply as a side dish with any Mexican-inspired meal.

. Can I store leftover Esquites?

Esquites is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Give it a quick toss before serving again.

AprilCook, recipe developer and the heart of Chefwiz. More about April

More salads

See all →