Mexican Street Corn Salad (Esquites Recipe)

This Easy Mexican Street Corn Salad (Esquites Recipe) makes for a delightful side dish that elevates any meal. Perfect for taco nights, summer BBQs, or just a refreshing snack, this salad bursts with vibrant flavors and textures. The combination of grilled sweet corn, roasted red pepper, and creamy chili lime sauce creates a unique taste that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bursting with Flavor: The smoky char from the grilled corn combined with the spicy chili lime cream sauce gives this salad an unforgettable taste.
• Quick and Easy: With only 20 minutes of total prep and cook time, you can whip up this dish even on busy weeknights.
• Versatile Side: This Mexican Street Corn Salad pairs perfectly with tacos, grilled meats, or as a standalone dish at potlucks and parties.
• Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh produce like cilantro and roasted peppers ensures each bite is delicious and packed with nutrients.
• Vegetarian-Friendly: This recipe is suitable for vegetarians, making it an excellent choice for diverse gatherings.

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Tools and Preparation

To create this delicious Mexican Street Corn Salad (Esquites Recipe), you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Preparing the ingredients properly will help you achieve the best flavor and texture.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: A good grill adds that perfect smoky flavor to your corn, enhancing the overall taste.
• Mixing bowls: Having multiple sizes allows you to easily combine ingredients without mess.
• Whisk: A whisk helps blend your chili lime cream sauce smoothly, ensuring every spoonful is flavorful.

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, about 375-400°F. This temperature is ideal for charring the corn evenly.

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 salad.

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 heat and let cool before slicing off the kernels into a large bowl.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

In the large bowl with corn:
1. Add diced roasted red pepper, chopped cilantro, green onion, crumbled cojita cheese, black beans, and prepared chili lime cream sauce.

Step 5: Serve

Gently toss everything together using a spoon to coat all ingredients evenly with the sauce. Serve immediately or chill in the fridge until ready to enjoy!

How to Serve Mexican Street Corn Salad (Esquites Recipe)

Mexican Street Corn Salad, or Esquites, is a vibrant dish that can elevate any meal. Its fresh ingredients and bold flavors make it a delightful addition to various dining occasions. Here are some serving suggestions to enjoy this delicious salad.

As a Taco Night Side

• Pair it with your favorite tacos for a perfect complement. The creamy, spicy elements of the salad enhance the flavors of grilled or fried tacos.

At Summer BBQs

• Serve this salad alongside your grilled meats. Its refreshing taste helps balance the richness of BBQ dishes, making it an ideal summer side.

As Part of a Picnic Platter

• Include Mexican Street Corn Salad in your picnic spread. Its sturdy ingredients make it travel well, and it’s best enjoyed cold or at room temperature.

With Grilled Fish

• This salad pairs beautifully with grilled fish like salmon or tilapia, offering a bright contrast to the savory seafood.

As a Light Lunch

• Enjoy it on its own or with some crusty bread for a light lunch option. The protein from black beans makes it filling yet refreshing.

How to Perfect Mexican Street Corn Salad (Esquites Recipe)

Creating the ultimate Mexican Street Corn Salad requires attention to detail and a few handy tips. Here are some ways to ensure you get the best flavor and texture from this dish.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh corn when possible. Freshly shucked corn offers the sweetest flavor that frozen alternatives can’t match.

• Grill for Flavor: Grilling the corn adds a delightful smoky char that enhances the overall taste. Don’t skip this step for maximum flavor.

• Customize Your Spice Level: Adjust the amount of chili powder and chipotle chili powder based on your spice preference. Start small and gradually add more if you like heat.

• Mix Just Before Serving: To maintain the crispness of the veggies, mix all ingredients shortly before serving. This keeps everything fresh and crunchy.

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

When thinking about what to serve alongside Mexican Street Corn Salad, consider these delightful options that complement its flavors perfectly.

1. Grilled Chicken Tacos: Juicy chicken seasoned with spices makes an excellent pairing with the vibrant salad.
2. Black Bean Quesadillas: Cheesy quesadillas filled with black beans offer additional protein and work well together.
3. Spicy Shrimp Skewers: Grilled shrimp marinated in lime and chili provide a zesty contrast to the creamy salad.
4. Cilantro Lime Rice: This fragrant rice dish enhances the Mexican theme and provides a nice base for your meal.
5. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted until tender brings color and nutrients to your plate.
6. Guacamole with Tortilla Chips: Creamy guacamole served with crispy chips adds another layer of flavor while keeping things casual and fun.
7. Chili Lime Sweet Potatoes: These sweet potatoes roasted with spices pair wonderfully with both sweetness and heat.
8. Salsa Verde: Bright and tangy salsa verde can be drizzled over tacos or enjoyed with chips as an appetizer before your main course.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Mexican Street Corn Salad (Esquites Recipe), it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the flavor and texture of this delicious dish.

• Overcooking the Corn: Grilling corn for too long can make it tough. Aim for 3-4 minutes per side for a perfect char.
• Neglecting Seasoning: Forgetting to season your cream sauce can leave the salad bland. Always taste and adjust salt and spices as needed.
• Skipping Fresh Ingredients: Using canned or frozen items instead of fresh can dull the flavors. Fresh corn, peppers, and herbs enhance the dish significantly.
• Not Letting the Corn Cool: Adding hot corn directly into your salad can wilt other ingredients. Allow it to cool before mixing to maintain freshness.
• Ignoring Texture Balance: Too much cream sauce can make it soggy. Use just enough sauce to coat without overwhelming the salad’s crunch.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep separate from any cream sauce if possible, to maintain texture.

Freezing Mexican Street Corn Salad (Esquites Recipe)

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before use.

Reheating Mexican Street Corn Salad (Esquites Recipe)

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F. Spread in an even layer on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish and cover loosely. Heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Heat on low in a skillet, stirring occasionally until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Mexican Street Corn Salad (Esquites Recipe)?

Mexican Street Corn Salad, or Esquites, is a vibrant salad made with grilled corn, spices, and creamy sauce. It’s a popular street food in Mexico.

How do I customize my Esquites Recipe?

You can add diced avocado, jalapeños for heat, or switch out cojita cheese for feta based on your preference.

Can I make Mexican Street Corn Salad ahead of time?

Yes! This salad can be made up to 2 days in advance. Just store it properly in the fridge and add fresh cilantro right before serving.

What should I serve with Mexican Street Corn Salad?

This salad pairs wonderfully with tacos, grilled meats, or as part of a summer BBQ spread.

Final Thoughts

Mexican Street Corn Salad (Esquites Recipe) is not only easy to prepare but also bursting with flavor and textures that everyone will love. It’s versatile—feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients! Give this delightful recipe a try at your next gathering; you won’t regret it!