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Easy Charred Mexican Street Corn Salad (Esquites)

Close-up of a vibrant street corn salad featuring charred corn, red onion, cilantro, and cotija cheese in a white bowl.
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Make this creamy, zesty Mexican street corn salad, also known as Esquites, using charred corn for deep flavor. It is a simple side dish perfect for summer gatherings.

Ingredients

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  • 4 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise or Mexican crema
  • 1/4 cup sour cream
  • 1/2 cup Cotija cheese, crumbled (or feta as substitute)
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1 jalapeño, minced (optional)
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. If using fresh corn, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add corn and cook, stirring occasionally, until kernels are lightly charred, about 5 to 7 minutes. If using frozen corn, thaw first, then char in the skillet.
  2. Remove the corn from the heat and let it cool slightly in a large bowl.
  3. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise (or crema), sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, and cumin until smooth.
  4. Add the chopped red onion, minced jalapeño (if using), and most of the cilantro to the cooled corn. Reserve some cilantro for garnish.
  5. Pour the dressing mixture over the corn and vegetables. Toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
  6. Fold in half of the crumbled Cotija cheese.
  7. Taste the salad and add salt and pepper as needed.
  8. Transfer the salad to a serving dish. Top with the remaining Cotija cheese and a sprinkle of the reserved cilantro before serving.

Notes

  • You can char the corn on an outdoor grill for an even smokier flavor.
  • This salad tastes best when served slightly warm or at room temperature.
  • If you are serving this as an appetizer, offer tortilla chips for dipping.
  • For a lighter version, substitute some of the mayonnaise with plain Greek yogurt.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://kitchenslang.com/easy-charred-mexican-street-corn-salad/