This Mexican street corn salad, known as esquites or elote en vaso, is a popular creamy corn snack enjoyed on the streets of Mexico. Made with fresh corn, mayonnaise, lime juice, and cotija cheese, this dish is a flavorful and satisfying treat.
The easy esquites recipe is perfect for summer gatherings or as a side dish. It combines the sweetness of corn with the tanginess of lime and the richness of mayo, making it a delightful street corn salad that can be served in a cup for convenience.
What is Esquites?
Esquites, also known as elote en vaso, is a beloved Mexican street food that brings the taste of summer to your table. This vibrant dish features fresh corn kernels mixed with creamy mayonnaise, lime juice, and crumbled cotija cheese.
Often enjoyed as a corn in a cup, esquites is a delightful creamy corn snack that combines sweetness with a hint of tanginess. The addition of chili powder offers a spicy kick, making it a perfect treat for those who enjoy a bit of heat in their food.
This easy esquites recipe is not only quick to prepare but also serves as a fantastic side dish for summer gatherings or casual get-togethers.
Ingredients for a Flavorful Dish
To create this delicious street corn salad, you will need a handful of fresh ingredients. Start with about four cups of fresh corn kernels, which can be easily obtained from four ears of corn.
Combine these kernels with half a cup of mayonnaise and a quarter cup of sour cream or Greek yogurt for that creamy texture. The juice of one lime adds a refreshing zest, while chili powder and salt enhance the overall flavor profile.
Finally, don’t forget the crumbled cotija cheese, which adds a salty richness, and fresh cilantro for garnish. Lime wedges on the side are optional but highly recommended for an extra burst of flavor.
Preparation Steps
Preparing esquites is a straightforward process that takes about 20 minutes. Begin by cooking the corn in boiling water for 5-7 minutes until tender. Once cooled, cut the kernels off the cob.
In a large bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), lime juice, chili powder, and salt until well combined. Fold in the cooked corn kernels, ensuring they are evenly coated with the creamy mixture.
For serving, spoon the corn mixture into cups or bowls, top with crumbled cotija cheese, and garnish with chopped cilantro if desired. Serve with lime wedges for that extra zing.
Serving Suggestions
Esquites can be served as a standalone snack or as a side dish alongside your favorite Mexican meals. The vibrant colors and flavors make it an attractive addition to any table setting.
Consider pairing this street corn salad with grilled meats, tacos, or even as part of a festive buffet. The combination of creamy corn with mayo and the crunch of cotija cheese creates a delightful contrast that is sure to please your guests.
For a twist, try adding other toppings such as diced jalapeños for an extra spicy corn snack or avocado for creaminess.
Nutritional Benefits
This esquites recipe not only satisfies your taste buds but also offers some nutritional benefits. Each serving contains approximately 250 calories, making it a relatively light option for a snack or side dish.
With 15 grams of fat, primarily from the mayonnaise and cotija cheese, it provides a satisfying richness. The dish also contains 6 grams of protein and 28 grams of carbohydrates, making it a well-rounded choice for a quick bite.
Moreover, the fresh corn adds fiber and essential vitamins, making this creamy corn snack a delicious way to enjoy the benefits of vegetables.
Final Thoughts on Esquites
Mexican street corn salad, or esquites, is a delightful dish that captures the essence of street food culture in Mexico. Its combination of fresh ingredients and bold flavors makes it a must-try for anyone looking to enjoy a taste of this vibrant cuisine.
Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or simply craving a tasty snack, this easy esquites recipe is sure to impress. With its creamy texture and zesty lime flavor, it’s a dish that brings joy with every bite.
So gather your ingredients, prepare your corn in a cup, and enjoy the festive flavors of this beloved Mexican treat!
Delicious Esquites Recipe
This esquites recipe features tender corn kernels mixed with creamy mayonnaise, lime juice, and topped with crumbled cotija cheese. The dish is customizable with spices like chili powder for a spicy corn snack. The recipe takes about 20 minutes to prepare and serves 4 people.
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh corn kernels (about 4 ears of corn, cooked and cut off the cob)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 cup crumbled cotija cheese
- Chopped cilantro for garnish (optional)
- Lime wedges for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Corn: If using fresh corn, cook the ears in boiling water for about 5-7 minutes, then let cool and cut the kernels off the cob.
- Mix the Base: In a large bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), lime juice, chili powder, and salt. Mix until well combined.
- Add the Corn: Fold in the cooked corn kernels until they are evenly coated with the creamy mixture.
- Serve: Spoon the corn mixture into cups or bowls. Top with crumbled cotija cheese and garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired. Serve with lime wedges on the side.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4 cups
- Calories: 250kcal
- Fat: 15g
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
