Mexican Street Corn Salad, also known as Esquites, is a flavorful and vibrant dish inspired by the popular street food sold by vendors across Mexico. Instead of serving the corn on the cob, this version combines roasted corn kernels with a creamy, tangy dressing, fresh herbs, spices, and a touch of heat.

FULL RECIPE

Ingredients

• 4 cups fresh corn kernels (from about 5–6 ears of corn) or frozen corn, thawed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or unsalted butter
• ½ cup mayonnaise
• ½ cup sour cream or Mexican crema
• ½ cup cotija cheese, crumbled (plus extra for garnish)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice (about 1 lime)
• 1 teaspoon lime zest
• 1 teaspoon chili powder (plus extra for garnish)
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
• ¼ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
• ⅓ cup fresh cilantro, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
• Lime wedges, for serving

Directions

1. Cook the corn – Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the corn and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until kernels are slightly charred. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
2. Prepare the dressing – In a large mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, minced garlic, lime juice, lime zest, chili powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper until well combined.
3. Combine ingredients – Add the cooked corn, crumbled cotija cheese, and chopped cilantro to the dressing. Toss until the corn is fully coated.
4. Adjust seasoning – Taste and adjust seasonings, adding more lime juice, chili powder, or salt as desired.
5. Serve and garnish – Transfer to a serving bowl, sprinkle with extra cotija cheese, a dash of chili powder, and additional cilantro. Serve with lime wedges on the side.
6. Chill (optional) – For a cold salad, cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Nutrition Facts

• Calories: 230
• Total Fat: 17g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Cholesterol: 25mg
• Sodium: 310mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 17g
• Dietary Fiber: 2g
• Sugars: 4g
• Protein: 5g
• Vitamin A: 10% DV
• Vitamin C: 12% DV
• Calcium: 8% DV
• Iron: 4% DV

Origins of Mexican Street Corn Salad

Mexican Street Corn Salad, or Esquites, has deep cultural roots in Mexico’s vibrant street food scene. Traditionally, corn is grilled or boiled, then served in cups with mayonnaise, lime, chili powder, and cheese. This salad form is essentially a deconstructed version of the famous Elote on the cob. By removing the kernels and mixing them with flavorful seasonings and fresh herbs, it becomes easier to serve at gatherings while still honoring its authentic origins. Over the years, chefs have adapted the recipe for home kitchens, making it a beloved side dish worldwide while retaining its traditional Mexican flavors.

Nutritional Value of Corn

Corn is more than just a tasty ingredient—it’s also packed with essential nutrients. It’s a good source of carbohydrates, providing energy, while also offering dietary fiber that aids digestion. Corn contains important vitamins such as B-complex vitamins, especially thiamine and folate, which support brain health and cell repair. It also contains minerals like magnesium and phosphorus for bone strength. While it’s higher in carbs compared to leafy vegetables, its nutritional benefits make it a healthy base for a salad, especially when paired with fresh herbs and moderate amounts of cheese and dressing.

The Role of Cotija Cheese

Cotija cheese, often called the “Parmesan of Mexico,” plays a central role in enhancing the flavor of this salad. Its salty, crumbly texture adds a delightful contrast to the creamy dressing and sweet corn. Cotija is made from cow’s milk and has a slightly tangy flavor that pairs perfectly with lime and chili powder. It’s also relatively high in calcium, contributing to bone health. For those who can’t find cotija locally, queso fresco, feta, or even grated Parmesan can be used as substitutes, though each will alter the flavor profile slightly.

Flavor Balance in the Dressing

The dressing is the heart of Mexican Street Corn Salad, striking a balance between creamy, tangy, spicy, and smoky flavors. Mayonnaise and sour cream form the rich base, while lime juice adds freshness and acidity. Chili powder, smoked paprika, and optional cayenne pepper bring warmth and depth, while garlic contributes aromatic sharpness. This combination ensures that each bite bursts with flavor, keeping the salad far from being just plain corn. By adjusting the seasoning ratios, you can customize the heat level and tanginess to suit different palates.

Serving Occasions and Festive Appeal

This salad is incredibly versatile and fits perfectly into both casual meals and festive celebrations. Its vibrant colors—golden corn, bright green cilantro, red chili powder—make it visually appealing for Mexican Independence Day feasts. It can be served as a side dish with grilled meats, tacos, or fajitas, or even as a topping for nachos and baked potatoes. Because it’s easy to prepare in large batches, it’s also a great option for potlucks, summer barbecues, and family gatherings, ensuring a crowd-pleasing addition to the table.

Pairing Suggestions

Mexican Street Corn Salad pairs beautifully with a wide range of dishes. It complements grilled proteins such as chicken, steak, or shrimp, especially when seasoned with similar spices. For a vegetarian spread, it works well alongside black bean enchiladas, vegetable fajitas, or stuffed peppers. The creamy-spicy profile also contrasts nicely with light and refreshing beverages like agua fresca, margaritas, or lime-infused sparkling water. Its versatility means it can be incorporated into various cuisines beyond Mexican fare, pairing surprisingly well with burgers or roasted vegetables.

Health-Conscious Variations

While the traditional recipe is indulgent, there are many ways to make it lighter without sacrificing flavor. Swapping mayonnaise for Greek yogurt reduces fat content while adding extra protein. Using low-fat sour cream or crema can also help cut calories. To boost vegetable intake, you can add diced bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or shredded cabbage for extra crunch and nutrients. For a vegan version, plant-based mayonnaise and vegan cheese alternatives can be used while still achieving the creamy, tangy flavor profile.

Creative Additions and Twists

Part of the fun of this salad is experimenting with different add-ins. Roasted poblano peppers add a smoky flavor, while diced jalapeños bring extra heat. Black beans or avocado chunks can make it more filling and turn it into a stand-alone lunch. Some people even like to sprinkle in crispy bacon bits for a salty crunch. A sprinkle of Tajín seasoning instead of plain chili powder can also intensify the tangy-spicy flavor. These small tweaks can help personalize the salad to match your own flavor preferences.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Mexican Street Corn Salad stores well in the refrigerator, making it an excellent make-ahead dish for parties. When stored in an airtight container, it can last up to three days without losing too much freshness. However, if you’re planning to serve it later, it’s best to keep the dressing separate from the corn and mix them right before serving to preserve the salad’s texture. Adding fresh cilantro and an extra squeeze of lime at the last moment can also help revive flavors after refrigeration.

Cultural Significance in Mexican Cuisine

Corn, or maíz, has been a staple of Mexican cuisine for thousands of years and holds significant cultural value. From tortillas to tamales, corn is central to many iconic dishes. Mexican Street Corn Salad reflects this deep-rooted heritage while showcasing how traditional flavors can be adapted into modern presentations. Enjoying a dish like this during Mexican Independence Day not only satisfies the taste buds but also celebrates the history, traditions, and agricultural heritage of Mexico.

Conclusion

Mexican Street Corn Salad is much more than a side dish it’s a flavorful celebration of Mexico’s street food culture, combining vibrant colors, bold spices, and a variety of textures. Its adaptability makes it suitable for everyday meals as well as special occasions, and its balance of creaminess, tanginess, and spice ensures it remains a crowd favorite.