Esquites, also known as Mexican street corn, is a popular and delicious dish that originated in the streets of Mexico. This flavorful corn salad is a staple at Mexican street food stands and is loved by many for its combination of sweet and savory flavors. If you're looking to bring a taste of Mexico into your own kitchen, then this esquites recipe is a must-try. In this article, we'll take a closer look at the ingredients and steps needed to create this mouthwatering dish. So, get ready to tantalize your taste buds with this esquites Mexican corn salad recipe.
Main Ingredients: Corn, Lime, Chili Powder, Cumin, Smoked Paprika
If you're looking for a refreshing and flavorful side dish to pair with your beer can chicken, look no further than this delicious Mexican street corn salad, also known as esquites. This traditional Mexican dish is the perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and spicy, and it's sure to be a crowd-pleaser at your next cookout or gathering.
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(Esquites) Mexican Street Corn Salad
Main Ingredients: Corn On The Cob, Vegetable Oil, Yellow Onion, Serrano
To make this mouthwatering dish, start by grilling or roasting some fresh corn on the cob until it's slightly charred. Then, cut the kernels off the cob and mix them with some diced red onion, jalapeno, and cilantro. For the dressing, combine some mayo, lime juice, and chili powder in a small bowl, and drizzle it over the corn mixture. Toss everything together and voila! You have a delicious and colorful Mexican street corn salad.
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(Esquites) Mexican Street Corn Salad
Main Ingredients: Unsalted Butter, Corn Kernels, Fine Salt, Garlic
If you want to take this dish to the next level, you can also add some crumbled queso fresco or cotija cheese on top for a creamy and salty kick. And for some added creaminess and healthy fats, add some diced avocado to the mix. The result is a refreshing and satisfying side dish that pairs perfectly with the smoky and savory flavors of beer can chicken.
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(Esquites) Mexican Street Corn Salad
Main Ingredients: Butter, Fresh Corn, Jalapeno, Garlic, Green Onions
But this dish doesn't have to be limited to just a side dish. You can also serve it as a dip with some tortilla chips or use it as a topping for tacos or nachos. The possibilities are endless, and it's a great way to incorporate some Mexican flavors into your meals.
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Skillet Esquites (Mexican Street Corn Salad)
Main Ingredients: Ears Of Corn, Olive Oil, Limes, Mayonnaise, Crumbled
For a twist on the traditional esquites recipe, try making it in a skillet instead of grilling the corn. Simply cook the corn and other ingredients in a skillet until heated through and slightly charred, and then add the dressing. This method creates a slightly different texture and adds an extra layer of flavor to the dish.
If you're short on time or don't have access to fresh corn, you can also use canned or frozen corn for this recipe. Just make sure to drain and rinse the corn before adding it to the dish. While fresh corn is always preferred, this shortcut can still result in a delicious and satisfying dish.
This dish is also very customizable, so feel free to add in any other ingredients or spices that you enjoy. Some popular additions include black beans, diced tomatoes, or even some chipotle peppers for an extra kick of heat. You can also adjust the amount of chili powder or other seasonings to your liking.
Another great thing about this dish is that it can be enjoyed year-round. In the summer, it's perfect for a cookout or picnic, but it can also be a bright and flavorful addition to a winter potluck or holiday gathering. Plus, it's a great way to use up any leftover corn on the cob.
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Mexican Street Corn Salad (Esquites Recipe)
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, Corn Kernels, Diced Red Onion, Jalapeno
So if you're tired of the same old side dishes and want to spice things up, try making this delicious and versatile Mexican street corn salad. It's a perfect accompaniment to beer can chicken, but it's also a great dish to enjoy on its own or with other Mexican-inspired dishes. With its colorful presentation and bold flavors, it's sure to become a new favorite in your household.
For an extra dose of creaminess and healthy fats, try adding some diced avocado to your Mexican street corn salad. Avocado pairs perfectly with the other flavors in this dish and adds a nice balance to the spicy and tangy elements. It's also a great way to incorporate some extra nutrients into your meal.
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(Esquites) Mexican Street Corn Salad
Main Ingredients: Corn, Crema Mexicana, Cotija Cheese, Fresh Cilantro
In conclusion, this delicious and versatile Mexican street corn salad is a must-try for any beer can chicken lover. Whether you're looking for a refreshing side dish, a flavorful dip, or a topping for your favorite Mexican dishes, this recipe has got you covered. So grab some fresh corn and get ready to impress your friends and family with this tasty and colorful dish.
The Ingredients You'll Need
Corn
The star ingredient of esquites is, of course, corn. You can use fresh corn on the cob or canned corn for convenience. If using fresh corn, make sure to remove the kernels from the cob before cooking.
Seasonings
To give your esquites that authentic Mexican flavor, you'll need to have some key seasonings on hand. These include chili powder, cumin, paprika, and garlic powder. These spices add a delicious kick to the dish and help to bring out the sweet flavors of the corn.
Lime Juice
Lime juice is a crucial ingredient in this recipe as it adds a tangy and refreshing element to the dish. Make sure to use fresh lime juice for the best results.
Mayonnaise
While this may seem like an unusual ingredient for a salad, mayonnaise is actually what gives esquites its creamy and rich texture. It also helps to balance out the spiciness of the seasonings.
Cheese
No Mexican dish is complete without some crumbled cotija cheese. This salty and crumbly cheese is the perfect topping for esquites and adds a delicious contrast to the other flavors.
How to Make Esquites
Now that you have all the necessary ingredients, it's time to put them together and create this mouthwatering dish. Here's a step-by-step guide to making esquites:
Step 1: Cook the Corn
In a large skillet, heat some oil over medium heat. Add the corn kernels and cook until they start to brown, stirring occasionally.
Step 2: Add the Seasonings
Once the corn is cooked, add in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, and garlic powder. Stir until the corn is evenly coated with the spices.
Step 3: Add the Lime Juice and Mayonnaise
Next, add in the lime juice and mayonnaise. Stir until well combined and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Step 4: Top with Cheese
Transfer the esquites to a serving bowl and top with crumbled cotija cheese.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Your esquites Mexican corn salad is now ready to be served. Enjoy it hot or cold, on its own or as a side dish. Either way, it's sure to be a hit with your taste buds.
In conclusion, esquites is a delicious and easy-to-make Mexican dish that is perfect for any occasion. With just a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you can recreate this street food favorite in the comfort of your own home. So, give this esquites Mexican corn salad recipe a try and experience the irresistible flavors of Mexico.