Mexican Street Corn Salad (Esquites Recipe)

This Mexican Street Corn Salad (Esquites Recipe) is a vibrant and delicious side dish that perfectly complements taco nights and summer BBQs. The combination of grilled sweet corn, roasted red pepper, and creamy chili lime sauce creates a refreshing flavor that’s hard to resist. Ideal for gatherings or casual meals, this salad will impress your guests with its delightful taste and colorful presentation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bursting with Flavor: Each bite offers a harmonious blend of sweet, spicy, and tangy notes thanks to the chili lime cream sauce.
• Quick Preparation: With just 20 minutes from start to finish, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Versatile Side Dish: Great for pairing with tacos, grilled meats, or enjoying on its own as a light meal.
• Fresh Ingredients: Made with wholesome ingredients like fresh corn, cilantro, and cojita cheese for a satisfying crunch.
• Vegetarian-Friendly: This dish caters to vegetarians while still being hearty enough for everyone at the table.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Mexican Street Corn Salad (Esquites Recipe), you’ll need some essential tools for efficient preparation.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Perfect for charring the corn which enhances its natural sweetness and adds a smoky flavor.
• Mixing bowl: Allows you to combine ingredients easily without making a mess.
• Whisk: Essential for creating a smooth dressing that evenly coats all salad ingredients.

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 the corn gets nicely charred while cooking.

Step 2: Prepare the Chili Lime Cream Sauce

In a small bowl, combine the following:
1. 2 tablespoons mayo
2. 3 tablespoons plain yogurt
3. 4 teaspoons lime juice
4. 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
5. 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
6. 1/4 teaspoon chipotle chili powder
7. Salt & pepper to taste

Whisk until everything is well 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 or until slightly charred.
Once done, remove from the grill and allow it to cool before slicing off the kernels into a large bowl.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

To the bowl of grilled corn, add:
– Diced roasted red pepper
– Chopped fresh cilantro
– Diced green onion
– Crumbled cojita cheese
– Low sodium black beans
– The prepared chili lime cream sauce

Step 5: Toss & 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)

Serving Mexican Street Corn Salad, or Esquites, is all about enhancing its vibrant flavors and making it a delightful addition to any meal. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

As a Side Dish

• Pair with grilled meats like chicken or steak for a delicious contrast.
• Serve alongside tacos to create a festive taco night atmosphere.

In a Wrap

• Use it as a filling in tortillas or wraps for a refreshing lunch option.
• Add avocado and lettuce for extra crunch and creaminess.

On Nachos

• Spoon over tortilla chips for a unique twist on classic nachos.
• Top with extra cheese and jalapeños for added flavor.

As a Dip

• Serve chilled with tortilla chips as an appetizer at gatherings.
• Mix in diced tomatoes for extra freshness.

How to Perfect Mexican Street Corn Salad (Esquites Recipe)

To ensure your Mexican Street Corn Salad shines, follow these helpful tips. A few adjustments can take this dish from good to great!

• Use fresh corn: Fresh sweet corn gives the best flavor and texture. Grilling enhances its natural sweetness.
• Customize the spice level: Adjust the chili powder according to your taste preferences. Start with less if you’re sensitive to heat.
• Add lime zest: For an extra citrus kick, include lime zest in the cream sauce. This brightens the overall flavor.
• Chill before serving: Letting the salad sit in the fridge for about 30 minutes allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
• Experiment with toppings: Try adding avocado slices or diced tomatoes for more texture and taste variation.
• Use quality cheese: Authentic cotija cheese will give you that true Mexican flavor. Grate it fresh if possible.

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

When planning a meal, pairing side dishes with Mexican Street Corn Salad can enhance the dining experience. Here are some excellent choices:

1. Grilled Chicken Tacos: Tender chicken marinated in spices, served with fresh toppings.
2. Black Bean Quesadillas: Crispy tortillas filled with savory black beans and melted cheese, easy to prepare.
3. Guacamole: Creamy avocado dip with lime and cilantro, perfect for scooping up alongside salad.
4. Homemade Salsa: Fresh tomato salsa adds brightness and acidity; serve it chilled for an ideal complement.
5. Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice tossed with cilantro and lime juice pairs well with bold flavors of the salad.
6. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized add depth and color to your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Mexican Street Corn Salad (Esquites Recipe) can be simple, but there are a few mistakes that might affect its flavor and texture. Here are some common pitfalls to steer clear of:

• Overcooking the corn: Leaving the corn on the grill too long can make it tough. Grill just until slightly charred for the best texture.
• Skipping the cheese: Cojita cheese adds a creamy, salty element that’s essential in this dish. Don’t leave it out for an authentic flavor.
• Neglecting seasoning: Failing to season adequately can lead to bland salad. Taste as you go and adjust salt and lime juice for balance.
• Using canned corn: Fresh sweet corn is key to achieving that delightful crunch. Always opt for fresh over canned when possible.
• Not chilling before serving: Allowing the salad to chill for at least 30 minutes helps meld flavors together. Serve immediately for best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Mexican Street Corn Salad (Esquites Recipe)

• Freezing is not recommended as it can change the texture of the corn and other ingredients.
• If needed, store in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month.

Reheating Mexican Street Corn Salad (Esquites Recipe)

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F and warm in an oven-safe dish for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Microwave in short intervals (30 seconds) until heated through, stirring in between.
• Stovetop: Heat gently on medium-low heat in a skillet, stirring frequently until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

What is Mexican Street Corn Salad (Esquites Recipe)?

Mexican Street Corn Salad, or Esquites, is a vibrant salad made with grilled corn, spices, creamy dressing, and fresh herbs.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the salad a few hours in advance. Chilling allows flavors to combine beautifully.

How do I customize this Mexican Street Corn Salad (Esquites Recipe)?

Feel free to add avocado, jalapeños for heat, or even diced tomatoes for extra freshness!

Is this dish gluten-free?

Absolutely! This recipe is naturally gluten-free as it uses fresh ingredients without any gluten-containing products.

Final Thoughts

This Mexican Street Corn Salad (Esquites Recipe) is a delightful blend of flavors perfect for summer gatherings or taco nights. Its versatility allows you to customize it according to your taste preferences. Give it a try—you’ll love its refreshing crunch and zesty kick!