If you’ve ever had elote — that juicy, charred Mexican street corn on the cob slathered in creamy sauce, chili, and cheese — then you know how addictive those flavors are. This Mexican Street Corn Salad, also known as Esquites, captures everything you love about elote but in a fresh, scoopable, totally shareable form.
It’s bold. It’s creamy. It’s tangy. It’s a little spicy. And it’s ready in minutes.
Perfect as a side dish for tacos, grilled meats, or summer parties, this salad will quickly become a favorite on your table!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- 🌽 All the flavors of elote in salad form
- 🔥 Sweet corn, charred for extra depth
- 🧄 Creamy, zesty, and a little spicy
- 🥗 Easy to make and perfect for any gathering
- 🍴 Great served warm or chilled
Ingredients (U.S. Standard Measurements – Serves 4–6)
- 4 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels (about 5–6 ears if using fresh)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup sour cream or Mexican crema
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Juice of 1 lime (plus extra wedges for serving)
- ½ cup crumbled cotija cheese (or feta)
- ¼ cup chopped cilantro
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1 finely chopped jalapeño for heat
Instructions
Step 1: Char the Corn
In a large skillet or grill pan over high heat, add the olive oil or butter. Add the corn and let it cook undisturbed for 2–3 minutes to get a good char. Stir occasionally and cook until slightly caramelized (about 7–8 minutes total). Let cool slightly.
If using frozen corn, thaw and pat dry before charring for best texture.
Step 2: Mix the Sauce
In a large bowl, combine mayo, sour cream, chili powder, paprika, garlic, and lime juice. Whisk until smooth and creamy.
Step 3: Combine
Add the charred corn to the sauce. Stir to coat. Fold in crumbled cheese, chopped cilantro, and jalapeño if using. Taste and season with salt and pepper.
Step 4: Serve
Serve immediately warm, or refrigerate and serve chilled. Garnish with extra cheese, chili powder, and lime wedges if desired.
Tips & Variations
- 🧀 Can’t find cotija? Use crumbled feta or Parmesan as a substitute
- 🌶 Add Tajín or hot sauce for an extra kick
- 🥑 Stir in diced avocado right before serving for creamy richness
- 🍗 Turn it into a meal by adding grilled chicken or shrimp
- 🥬 Serve over lettuce or in taco shells for a fun twist
Storage
- 🧊 Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days
- 🥶 Not freezer-friendly due to the creamy dressing and fresh herbs
Nutrition Facts (Estimated per 1 cup serving)
- Calories: 220
- Fat: 15g
- Carbs: 18g
- Protein: 5g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 280mg
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