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Flavorful Mexican Street Corn Salad Recipe Easy Perfect Esquites for Summer

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A quick and easy Mexican street corn salad (esquites) featuring charred corn, creamy mayo-lime dressing, cotija cheese, and a smoky chili kick. Perfect for summer gatherings and potlucks.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 ears fresh corn on the cob, husked
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup Mexican crema or sour cream
  • Juice of 1 large lime (about 2 tablespoons)
  • 2 tablespoons finely chopped cilantro
  • 1/2 cup crumbled cotija cheese
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter

Instructions

  1. Husk the corn and remove all silk threads. Using a sharp knife, carefully cut the kernels off the cob into a large bowl (about 5 minutes).
  2. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil or butter in a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Add the corn kernels and cook, stirring occasionally, until charred and golden brown in spots, about 7-9 minutes.
  3. While the corn cooks, combine mayonnaise, Mexican crema (or sour cream), lime juice, chili powder, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper in a medium bowl. Whisk until smooth and creamy.
  4. Add the warm corn kernels to the dressing and toss gently to coat evenly.
  5. Stir in chopped cilantro and crumbled cotija cheese. Taste and adjust seasoning with extra salt, pepper, or lime juice as needed. If too thick, add a splash of water or more lime juice.
  6. Serve warm, at room temperature, or chilled. For best flavor, chill in the fridge for 15-20 minutes before serving.

Notes

Hold the corn cob vertically over a large bowl when cutting kernels to catch all kernels. Preheat pan well before adding corn to get a good char. Don’t overcrowd the pan; spread kernels evenly. Whisk lime juice and mayo first before adding spices for even seasoning. Adjust chili powder for desired heat. Can be served warm, room temperature, or chilled. Leftovers keep up to 3 days refrigerated.

Nutrition

Keywords: Mexican street corn salad, esquites, summer salad, corn salad, easy side dish, potluck recipe, charred corn, cotija cheese, creamy dressing

Find it online: https://cheerycrisp.com/flavorful-mexican-street-corn-salad-recipe-easy-perfect-esquites-for-summer/