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Mexican Street Corn Salad (Esquites Style)

Close-up of a white bowl filled with vibrant Mexican street corn salad, topped with cotija cheese, chili powder, and cilantro.
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Make this vibrant Mexican Street Corn Salad, inspired by authentic Elote. It features charred corn kernels tossed in a creamy, tangy dressing with cotija cheese and chili spice. This easy recipe is perfect for summer gatherings or as a side dish for taco night.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup sour cream or Mexican crema
  • 1/2 cup crumbled cotija cheese, plus more for topping
  • 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder (or to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion (optional)

Instructions

  1. If using fresh corn, cut kernels from the cobs. If using frozen, thaw completely.
  2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the corn kernels and cook, stirring occasionally, until the corn is slightly charred and tender, about 6 to 8 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
  3. While the corn cools, prepare the dressing. In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream (or crema), lime juice, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper until smooth.
  4. In a large bowl, combine the slightly cooled charred corn, the prepared dressing, 1/2 cup of cotija cheese, chopped cilantro, and red onion (if using). Mix gently until all ingredients are evenly coated.
  5. Taste the salad and adjust seasoning, adding more lime juice or chili powder if desired.
  6. Chill the Mexican Street Corn Salad for at least 15 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to combine.
  7. Serve cold or at room temperature, topping each serving with extra crumbled cotija cheese.

Notes

  • For a smoky flavor, grill the corn cobs first, then slice off the kernels.
  • You can substitute feta cheese for cotija if you cannot find it, though the flavor will change slightly.
  • This salad works well as a side dish for BBQs and is a great potluck salad idea.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookerycommand.com/mexican-street-corn-salad-recipe/