Get ready to transport your taste buds straight to the vibrant streets of Mexico with this mouthwatering Esquites recipe! Imagine a burst of charred corn, creamy mayo, tangy lime, and a sprinkle of cotija cheese that will make your summer gatherings absolutely unforgettable. This isn't just a side dish – it's a flavor explosion that will have everyone asking for your secret recipe!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 cups corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup cotija cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1 lime, juiced
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preparing your corn. If using fresh corn, shuck the ears and remove the kernels using a sharp knife. If using frozen corn, measure out 4 cups and set aside to thaw slightly.
- In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the corn kernels. Sauté the corn for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the kernels are slightly charred and cooked through. This enhances the flavor and adds a nice texture to the salad.
- While the corn is cooking, prepare the dressing. In a medium bowl, combine the mayonnaise, lime juice, chili powder, and a pinch of salt. Mix well until the ingredients are fully incorporated.
- Once the corn is cooked, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly for a few minutes. This will prevent the dressing from curdling when mixed.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the sautéed corn, chopped cilantro, and crumbled cotija cheese. Pour the mayonnaise dressing over the corn mixture and gently toss to coat all the ingredients evenly.
- Adjust the seasoning by adding more salt or lime juice to taste, if desired. Make sure all the flavors are well balanced.
- Transfer the Mexican Corn Salad Esquites to a serving dish. You can garnish with additional cotija cheese, cilantro, or a sprinkle of chili powder for an extra kick.
- Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together before serving. Enjoy your delicious and refreshing Mexican Corn Salad Esquites!
Tips
- For the best flavor, use fresh corn when possible. If using frozen corn, make sure to thoroughly pat it dry before sautéing to achieve that perfect char.
- The key to amazing Esquites is getting a nice char on the corn. Don't be afraid to let the kernels sit in the hot skillet for a few moments to develop those delicious caramelized spots.
- Adjust the heat level by playing with the amount of chili powder. Want it spicier? Add a dash of cayenne or some finely chopped jalapeños.
- Serve this dish slightly warm or chilled – it's delicious either way! If preparing ahead, keep the dressing separate and mix just before serving to maintain the corn's texture.
- For a lighter version, you can substitute Greek yogurt for some of the mayonnaise without losing too much of the creamy texture.
- Fresh ingredients are crucial – make sure your cilantro is bright green and your lime is juicy for the most vibrant flavor profile.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 20g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 15mg
