Mexican Street Corn Salad - Easy and Flavorful
This Mexican Street Corn Salad (also known as Esquites) brings the bold flavors of Mexican street food straight to your kitchen. It's a vibrant and flavorful salad made with sweet charred corn, tangy lime, creamy mayo, and a sprinkle of chili powder. Perfect as a side dish, this salad pairs well with grilled meats or can be enjoyed on its own. It's easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time for a quick meal or picnic favorite.
Ingredients
- 4 cups corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup sour cream
- ½ cup cotija cheese, crumbled (or feta)
- 1 jalapeño, finely chopped (optional)
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 2 tablespoons cilantro, chopped
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Lime wedges, for serving
Directions
Char the corn. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil. Add the corn kernels and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly charred. Remove from heat and let cool.
Make the dressing. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, garlic, and chili powder. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Mix the salad. Add the charred corn, chopped jalapeño (if using), cotija cheese, and cilantro to the bowl with the dressing. Stir until everything is well coated.
Serve the salad with lime wedges on the side and sprinkle some extra chili powder and cotija cheese on top if desired.
Recipe tips
Grilling or charring fresh corn on the cob adds an extra smoky flavor to the salad. Simply cut the kernels off the cob after grilling. If you prefer less heat, you can skip the jalapeño or use a mild chili powder. For more heat, add more chili powder or even a pinch of cayenne. This salad can be made a few hours ahead of time and stored in the fridge, making it a great option for parties or meal prep.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
This Chickpea Salad is light, refreshing, and packed with Mediterranean-inspired flavors. Perfect for a quick lunch, picnic side, or refreshing snack, it's bursting with wholesome ingredients like fresh veggies, tangy feta, and a simple lemon dressing. This recipe comes together in minutes and is both vegan and vegetarian-friendly, making it a crowd-pleaser for any gathering.
This classic tuna salad is a quick and healthy meal option, perfect for any time of day. With a delightful mix of creamy mayo, crunchy vegetables, and protein-packed tuna, it’s a great dish that satisfies your hunger while keeping things light. Whether you're making it for lunch, dinner, or a snack, this tuna salad is versatile, delicious, and incredibly easy to prepare. Pair it with crackers, serve it in a sandwich, or enjoy it over a bed of lettuce for a simple and nutritious meal.
Looking for a light, refreshing dish that’s packed with healthy fats, fresh veggies, and a burst of flavor? This avocado salad is perfect for you! It's quick to make, uses simple ingredients, and has a creamy, tangy dressing that pairs perfectly with the natural richness of the avocado. This is your go-to salad for a healthy lunch or as a side dish for dinner.
This Broccoli Salad is a delightful mix of fresh vegetables, dried fruit, and a creamy dressing that adds a tangy twist. It's the perfect blend of crunchy and creamy, sweet and savory, making it a hit at any meal. This salad is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it an excellent choice for those looking to enjoy a healthy and satisfying dish. It’s quick to prepare and doesn’t require any cooking, which means you can whip it up in no time, even on busy days.
This Zucchini Salad is light, refreshing, and packed with flavor. It combines thinly sliced zucchini with a simple, tangy lemon vinaigrette, fresh herbs, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Perfect for a quick lunch or side dish, this salad celebrates the natural flavors of summer and offers a nutritious, low-carb option. The crisp, raw zucchini provides a great texture, while the lemon adds a bright kick. It’s easy to make and ideal for anyone looking for a healthy and delicious dish.
This refreshing Pear Salad is a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors, combining juicy pears, crunchy nuts, creamy cheese, and fresh greens. The light honey and lemon dressing adds a delicate touch of sweetness that complements the salad beautifully. It's an easy-to-make dish that works wonderfully as a light lunch or a side dish for dinner, and it's great for impressing guests with its elegance and simplicity.
Chicken Caesar Salad is a classic recipe that never disappoints. With tender grilled chicken, crispy romaine lettuce, crunchy croutons, and a rich, creamy Caesar dressing, this salad is both satisfying and flavorful. It's a perfect dish when you're looking for something light yet filling, and it comes together in no time. Whether you’re making lunch or dinner, this Caesar salad will become your go-to favorite.
This Thai Peanut Salad is fresh, vibrant, and packed with flavor. The crunchy vegetables pair perfectly with the creamy, savory peanut dressing. It’s a simple yet satisfying dish that brings together the richness of Thai cuisine in a way that anyone can make at home. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, a light dinner, or a side to complement your meal, this salad has it all. The peanut dressing is the star, tying together crisp veggies, fresh herbs, and roasted peanuts for a deliciously tangy and nutty finish.
Egg salad is a simple, satisfying, and versatile dish that’s perfect for sandwiches, wraps, or even as a side salad. It’s creamy, tangy, and full of flavor, making it a go-to option for a quick lunch or snack. This easy recipe uses just a few basic ingredients, but the result is rich and delicious. Whether you're making it ahead for meal prep or whipping it up fresh, egg salad is always a winner.
A Three Bean Salad is a fresh and tangy dish that's quick to whip up, packed with protein, and full of flavor. It combines kidney beans, green beans, and garbanzo beans in a light vinaigrette dressing that’s perfect for a healthy lunch, snack, or even as a side dish at dinner. This salad is colorful, hearty, and versatile, making it ideal for picnics, barbecues, or meal prep.
Taco Salad is a vibrant and satisfying dish that brings together the bold flavors of Mexican cuisine in a healthier format. This recipe is perfect for those who love the taste of tacos but want a lighter meal. With crisp lettuce, seasoned ground beef, fresh vegetables, and a tangy dressing, this salad offers a delightful mix of textures and tastes. It's easy to prepare and customizable, making it ideal for a quick lunch or dinner.
Get ready to add some bold flavors to your mealtime with this vibrant Southwest Salad! Perfectly balanced with a mix of crunchy veggies, creamy avocado, sweet corn, and hearty black beans, this salad is bursting with color and taste. A zesty lime-cilantro dressing ties everything together, giving you a refreshing yet satisfying dish. Whether you're looking for a light lunch, a side dish for dinner, or a meal-prep option that keeps well, this Southwest Salad has got you covered. It's quick, easy, and packed with nutrients!
Bring the flavors of the coast to your kitchen with this delicious Deviled Crab recipe! Featuring fresh crab meat blended with spices, breadcrumbs, and a bit of heat, this dish is a fantastic way to elevate seafood into a flavorful meal. It’s perfect for seafood lovers and can be served as an appetizer or main course, especially for gatherings or festive occasions.
Peach cobbler is the perfect dessert for when you’re craving something warm, fruity, and comforting. The sweet, juicy peaches are topped with a golden, buttery crust that comes together easily in one dish. Whether you’re using fresh, frozen, or canned peaches, this classic Southern dessert is always a hit. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an irresistible treat.
This Baked Ziti is a comforting, hearty pasta dish that’s perfect for a family dinner. Made with layers of ziti pasta, flavorful marinara sauce, and a blend of creamy ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese, this dish is baked to golden perfection. It’s easy to prepare and sure to be a hit with everyone at the table. You can customize it with your favorite meats or vegetables, making it a versatile recipe for any occasion.
Shrimp Cocktail is a classic appetizer that’s light, refreshing, and perfect for any occasion. The tender, juicy shrimp are paired with a zesty homemade cocktail sauce that’s packed with flavor, making it a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. The beauty of this dish is in its simplicity; it’s quick to prepare and delivers a sophisticated taste that will impress your guests. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or a holiday feast, Shrimp Cocktail is a go-to recipe that never disappoints.
These delightful Peach Hand Pies are the perfect treat for a sweet snack or dessert. Made with a buttery, flaky pie crust and filled with juicy, spiced peaches, they are easy to make and perfect for any time of year, especially summer. You can serve them warm with a scoop of ice cream or enjoy them as a grab-and-go snack. The individual servings also make them ideal for picnics or parties.
This rich, flavorful gravy made with red wine elevates any meal, bringing depth and warmth to roasted meats, mashed potatoes, or holiday feasts. The wine enhances the savory notes of the gravy, while fresh herbs and a touch of butter give it a luxurious finish. Perfect for winter gatherings or adding a special touch to dinner, this red wine gravy will be a hit on your table.
These juicy turkey burgers are a lighter, healthier alternative to beef burgers, yet packed with flavor. Made with simple ingredients like ground turkey, breadcrumbs, and a few seasonings, these burgers come out tender, moist, and absolutely delicious. They’re perfect for grilling outdoors or cooking on a stovetop, making them a versatile dish for any time of year.
These mini tacos are the perfect bite-sized treats, loaded with flavor and incredibly versatile. Whether you're serving them at a party or as a fun family meal, they’re sure to be a hit. With crisp tortillas, seasoned beef, and your favorite toppings, mini tacos are easy to prepare and customize to your taste. The best part? They’re fun to make and eat!
Bruschetta is a simple yet delightful Italian appetizer that brings together fresh tomatoes, garlic, basil, and olive oil atop toasted slices of bread. The vibrant flavors and crunchy texture make it a perfect dish for entertaining or enjoying as a light meal. It's a great way to use up ripe tomatoes and takes very little time to prepare, making it a go-to recipe when you want something quick, delicious, and satisfying.
This hearty Turkey Soup is the perfect way to use leftover turkey and create a warming, delicious meal. Packed with tender vegetables, savory herbs, and chunks of turkey, it’s an easy, soul-soothing bowl of comfort food. Whether you’re looking to warm up on a cold day or enjoy a light meal, this soup will quickly become a family favorite.
This classic homemade meatloaf is savory, moist, and packed with rich flavors. It's a dish that brings comfort to the table and is loved by everyone for its simplicity and heartiness. The tender loaf is seasoned perfectly with herbs and spices, topped with a slightly sweet and tangy glaze, and baked to perfection. Meatloaf pairs well with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad, making it a great option for family dinners or special gatherings.
Gazpacho is a classic chilled Spanish soup perfect for warm days when you need something light, refreshing, and flavorful. This recipe captures the vibrant flavors of ripe tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, and a touch of garlic blended together to create a smooth and tangy soup. It’s quick to prepare and bursting with fresh, wholesome ingredients that make it an ideal starter or light meal. The beauty of gazpacho is that it's not just delicious but also incredibly healthy.
Sweet potato fries are a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional fries. They're crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and have a naturally sweet flavor that pairs perfectly with a variety of dips. This simple recipe is oven-baked, making it a healthier choice without sacrificing taste. You can enjoy them as a side dish, a snack, or even on their own.
Spaghetti Bolognese is a hearty and comforting dish, perfect for a family meal or a cozy dinner. This Italian classic combines tender ground beef with tomatoes, onions, and herbs, creating a rich, flavorful sauce that pairs perfectly with spaghetti. It’s an easy recipe that you can tweak to your taste, making it ideal for a homemade meal. Whether you're cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this Bolognese sauce will be a hit.
This moist and flavorful Carrot Cake is packed with freshly grated carrots, warm spices, and topped with a rich cream cheese frosting. It's the perfect dessert for any occasion, offering a balance of sweetness and spice, along with a soft texture that melts in your mouth. Whether you're making it for a family gathering or just to satisfy your sweet tooth, this carrot cake will never disappoint.
This creamy and comforting Fish Chowder is the perfect way to warm up on a chilly day. Loaded with tender chunks of fish, hearty potatoes, and rich, flavorful broth, it's a satisfying dish that’s both simple to make and packed with nutrients. This chowder can be made with any white fish like cod, haddock, or halibut, and is great for weeknight dinners or a cozy weekend meal.
A refreshing, citrusy, and lightly sweet cocktail, the Paloma is a Mexican classic perfect for hot days. The combination of grapefruit soda, lime, and tequila creates a delightful balance of tartness and sweetness, making this drink both thirst-quenching and flavorful. Whether you're relaxing at home or hosting a summer gathering, the Paloma is an easy-to-make cocktail that will be a hit with everyone.
Who can resist a juicy, flavorful pulled pork sandwich? Slow-cooked to perfection, this tender pork is shredded and piled high on soft buns with your favorite barbecue sauce. It's perfect for a casual lunch, picnic, or game day, and it's easier to make than you might think! Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week, this pulled pork recipe is sure to impress with its smoky flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Sweet Potato Pie is a classic dessert that brings the warmth of fall right to your table. With its creamy filling, aromatic spices, and a buttery crust, this pie is the perfect balance of sweetness and spice. It’s a beloved holiday treat, yet simple enough to make for any cozy gathering. With a few simple ingredients, you’ll create a dessert that’s velvety, fragrant, and beautifully orange. Serve it warm with a dollop of whipped cream, and enjoy the comforting taste of sweet potatoes with every bite.
Potato Leek Soup is a comforting, creamy dish perfect for chilly days or when you crave something warm and soothing. The combination of tender potatoes and mild leeks creates a velvety texture, while a hint of garlic and fresh herbs enhances the flavor. This soup is easy to prepare and makes for a satisfying meal, whether you're serving it as a starter or the main course.