Mexican street corn — or Elotes — is the kind of dish that screams summer, flavor, and pure joy. Imagine biting into a juicy cob of corn, perfectly charred and slathered in a creamy, cheesy, lime-infused sauce. It’s messy, it’s delicious, and it’s absolutely worth it. But what if you could enjoy all that goodness without the hassle of firing up the grill?
Say hello to Esquites, the off-the-cob version of Mexican street corn salad. Whether you’re looking for an easy Mexican street corn recipe or a fuss-free way to satisfy your elote cravings, this dish is about to become your go-to favorite.
Mexican Street Corn (Esquites)
Ingredients
- 4 ears of fresh corn shucked, kernels removed (about 3 cups)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Kosher salt to taste
- 2 ounces Cotija or feta cheese finely crumbled
- 1/2 cup scallions green parts only, finely sliced
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro finely chopped
- 1 jalapeño seeded and finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves minced or grated
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- Chile powder or hot chile flakes to taste
Instructions
- Char the Corn: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat until shimmering. Add the corn kernels and a pinch of salt. Let them cook without stirring for about 2 minutes — you want those beautiful charred spots. Toss the corn, let it char again, and repeat until it’s golden and slightly blackened (about 10 minutes total).
- Mix the Flavor Bomb: Transfer the charred corn to a bowl. Add the crumbled cheese, scallions, cilantro, jalapeño, garlic, mayonnaise, lime juice, and a sprinkle of chile powder. Toss everything together until the corn is coated in the creamy, zesty sauce.
- Taste and Adjust: Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning. Want more heat? Add a dash more chile powder. Need a bit more tang? Squeeze in extra lime juice.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve immediately while warm or let it cool to room temperature. Either way, you’ve got yourself a dish that’s guaranteed to steal the show!
Notes
- Fresh Corn: Use fresh corn for the juiciest results.
- Char for Flavor: Don’t skip the charring step; it adds smoky depth.
- Make Ahead: Esquites can be made a few hours ahead and served at room temperature.
Why This Recipe Works
- Indoor-Friendly: No grill? No problem. You get all the smoky char by cooking the kernels in a hot skillet.
- Packed with Flavor: The mix of garlic, mayonnaise, cheese, lime, and chile powder ensures every bite is a burst of deliciousness.
- Versatile: Serve it as a side dish, a taco filling, or a topping for grilled meats.
Tips for the Best Mexican Street Corn Salad
- Fresh Corn is Key: Use the freshest corn you can find for the juiciest results.
- Don’t Skip the Char: The smoky flavor comes from those charred bits, so let the corn get some color.
- Make it Your Own: Add avocado, and bacon bits, or swap the jalapeño for poblano if you prefer a milder kick.
Variations to Try
- Mexican Street Corn Dip Recipe: Add extra mayo and cheese, and serve it warm with tortilla chips for an irresistible dip.
- Recipe for Mexican Street Corn with Paprika: A sprinkle of smoked paprika adds an extra layer of flavor.
- Easy Mexican Street Corn Recipe with Bacon: Because everything’s better with bacon, right?
Final Thoughts: Bring the Fiesta to Your Kitchen
This easy Mexican street corn recipe is everything you love about Elotes but without the fuss. Perfect for weeknights, weekends, or whenever you want a taste of summer, it’s a recipe you’ll come back to again and again.
Try it out and let us know — did it become your new favorite?
Craving More Mexican-Inspired Recipes?
Loved the bold and delicious flavors of Mexican street corn? Let’s keep the inspiration going! Here are a few more recipes that bring the taste of Mexico straight to your table. Whether you’re looking for something warm, refreshing, or a bit lighter, there’s plenty to explore.
- Menudo Soup
This traditional soup combines tender beef tripe, chewy hominy, and a deeply flavorful broth made with dried chiles. It’s a hearty dish that’s great for a special meal or a lazy weekend. Every bite is a mix of satisfying textures and warm spices. - Mexican Hot Chocolate
For a simple treat, try this Mexican hot chocolate. Made with real Mexican chocolate and a touch of cinnamon, it’s rich and creamy without being heavy. Perfect for unwinding after dinner or enjoying a quiet moment to yourself. - Zucchini Enchiladas
Craving enchiladas but want a lighter option? These zucchini enchiladas swap out tortillas for thin slices of zucchini. Filled with shredded chicken, tangy enchilada sauce, and gooey cheese, they’re just as satisfying and full of flavor.
Which recipe will you make next? Share your favorites in the comments or tag us with your creations—we can’t wait to see!
Did you make this Recipe?
Please let me know how this recipe turned out for you! Leave a comment below, tag @foodiecreator on Instagram, and hashtag #foodiecreator.
