Mexican Street Corn Salad (Esquites Recipe)

This Easy Mexican Street Corn Salad (Esquites Recipe) is a vibrant dish perfect for taco night and summer BBQs. With its combination of grilled sweet corn, roasted red pepper, and a zesty chili lime cream sauce, every bite is a burst of flavor. This salad not only delights your taste buds but is also versatile enough to serve at parties or family gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With only 20 minutes needed, you can whip up this delicious Mexican Street Corn Salad in no time.
• Bursting with Flavor: The blend of spices, fresh ingredients, and creamy sauce ensures a taste explosion in every bite.
• Versatile Side Dish: Perfect as a side for tacos, grilled meats, or on its own as a refreshing salad.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with fresh vegetables and beans, it makes for a nutritious addition to any meal.
• Crowd-Pleaser: This dish is sure to impress friends and family at your next gathering.

Tools and Preparation

To make the Mexican Street Corn Salad (Esquites Recipe), you’ll need some essential tools. These will help streamline the process and ensure great results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Provides the perfect charred flavor to the corn that enhances the salad’s taste.
• Mixing Bowl: Essential for combining all the ingredients together smoothly.
• Whisk: Helps in achieving a well-blended chili lime cream sauce for even flavor distribution.

Ingredients

Fresh Vegetables

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

Creamy Dressing and Cheese

• 2/3 cup crumbled cojita cheese
• 2 tablespoons mayo (I use Dukes)
• 3 tablespoons plain yogurt

Seasonings and Beans

• 1 cup low sodium black beans, drained and rinsed
• 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 gets perfectly charred.

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, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
2. Whisk everything until smooth and well combined. Set aside.

Step 3: Grill the Corn

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

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

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

Step 5: Serve

Serve your Mexican Street Corn Salad immediately as a vibrant side dish or enjoy it on its own!

How to Serve Mexican Street Corn Salad (Esquites Recipe)

Mexican Street Corn Salad, also known as Esquites, is a vibrant dish that is perfect for various occasions. Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ or enjoying taco night with family, here are some delicious serving suggestions.

As a Standalone Salad

• This salad can shine on its own as a light and refreshing meal, especially during warm weather.

With Tacos

• Pair this salad with your favorite tacos for a flavorful combination that enhances the overall experience.

At Potlucks

• Bring this Mexican Street Corn Salad to potlucks; it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser and add zest to any spread.

On Grilled Proteins

• Serve alongside grilled chicken or steak for a delightful contrast of flavors and textures.

As a Side for Fish Dishes

• The zesty flavors in the salad complement grilled or baked fish beautifully, making it an excellent side option.

How to Perfect Mexican Street Corn Salad (Esquites Recipe)

To create the best Mexican Street Corn Salad, keep these tips in mind for maximum flavor and texture.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh corn and herbs enhance the taste significantly compared to canned or frozen options.
• Grill the Corn Properly: Ensure you grill the corn until it’s slightly charred; this adds depth and smokiness to the salad.
• Adjust Seasoning: Feel free to modify spices according to your preference. A pinch more chili powder can add extra heat.
• Chill Before Serving: Letting the salad sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes allows flavors to meld together beautifully.
• Experiment with Add-Ins: Consider adding diced avocado or jalapeños for additional texture and flavor variations.
• Use High-Quality Cheese: Authentic cojita cheese makes a difference in taste; opt for fresh if possible.

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

Pairing side dishes with your Mexican Street Corn Salad can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Grilled Chicken Tacos
   Juicy grilled chicken wrapped in tortillas pairs perfectly with the fresh flavors of the salad.

2. Black Bean Quesadillas
   These cheesy quesadillas provide a hearty complement and can be easily made in under 15 minutes.

3. Avocado Lime Rice
   This creamy rice dish adds a refreshing twist that pairs well with the spicy notes of the salad.

4. Pico de Gallo
   A fresh salsa made from tomatoes, onions, and cilantro that brings brightness to every bite.

5. Guacamole
   Creamy guacamole offers richness while balancing out the crispness of the corn salad.

6. Roasted Veggies
   A medley of seasonal roasted vegetables provides an earthy flavor contrast that’s delightful alongside Esquites.

7. Chili Lime Grilled Shrimp
   Spicy shrimp skewers elevate your meal with their zesty marinade, making them an exciting addition.

8. Corn Tortilla Chips
   Serve with salsa or guacamole on the side for a crunchy texture that complements your meal nicely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Mexican Street Corn Salad (Esquites Recipe) from good to great.

• Using Raw Corn: Always use grilled corn for the best flavor. Grilling adds a smoky taste that raw corn cannot replicate.
• Skipping the Seasoning: Don’t forget to season your dressing. A pinch of salt and pepper enhances the flavors significantly.
• Overcooking the Corn: Grill the corn just until slightly charred. Overcooked corn becomes mushy and less enjoyable in your salad.
• Ignoring Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs like cilantro are crucial. Dried herbs lack the vibrant flavors that fresh herbs provide.
• Not Letting It Chill: Allow the salad to chill before serving. This enhances the flavors and makes it more refreshing.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keeps well for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Mexican Street Corn Salad (Esquites Recipe)

• It’s best not to freeze this salad as it may change texture once thawed.
• If you must, 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 15 minutes. Cover with foil to retain moisture.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until warm.
• Stovetop: Warm gently over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.

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 delicious dish made with grilled corn, spices, and creamy dressing. It’s perfect as a side dish.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare this salad a day in advance. Just keep it refrigerated until you’re ready to serve.

How can I customize my Mexican Street Corn Salad?

Feel free to add diced avocado, jalapeños for heat, or swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand.

What do you serve with Mexican Street Corn Salad?

This salad pairs beautifully with tacos, grilled meats, or any summer BBQ dishes.

Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

Absolutely! The Mexican Street Corn Salad (Esquites Recipe) is vegetarian-friendly and packed with flavor.

Final Thoughts

Mexican Street Corn Salad (Esquites Recipe) is a delightful addition to any meal. Its vibrant flavors and versatile ingredients allow for numerous customization options. Whether served at a summer BBQ or taco night, this salad will impress everyone at your table!