Introduction

Mexican street corn salad, known as 'Esquites' in its traditional form, brings the vibrant flavors of the street food scene right to your kitchen. This dish is a celebration of fresh ingredients and bold tastes, making it a perfect accompaniment to summer barbecues or a standalone vegetarian delight.

The combination of sweet corn, creamy elements, and zesty seasonings creates a harmonious balance that excites the palate. It's a versatile salad that can be customized to suit personal preferences, and each bite is packed with an irresistible crunch.

Whether you are serving it at a casual family dinner or at a festive gathering, Mexican street corn salad will surely impress your guests and leave them asking for seconds.

Ingredients

4 cups fresh corn kernels (about 6 ears)
Fresh corn is the star of this salad, bringing natural sweetness and texture. Using fresh kernels, either cooked or grilled, enhances the flavor profile and gives the dish a delightful crunch.
1/2 cup mayonnaise
Mayonnaise adds creaminess and acts as the binder for the salad ingredients. It allows the spices and flavors to adhere to the corn, creating a rich base that enhances the overall taste.
1/2 cup crumbled cotija cheese
Cotija cheese, a traditional Mexican cheese, adds a salty, tangy flavor that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the corn. It also contributes a creamy texture that complements the mayonnaise.
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Fresh cilantro introduces an aromatic freshness to the salad, cutting through the richness and adding an herbal note that brightens the overall dish.
1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
Red onion provides a sharp, crisp bite, balancing the creaminess of the mayonnaise and cheese. It adds a pop of color and flavor that rounds out the dish beautifully.
2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
Lime juice lends acidity that elevates the salad, bringing the flavors together and providing a refreshing tang that balances the richness.
1 teaspoon chili powder
Chili powder adds warmth and depth, infusing the salad with a subtle kick. It enhances the flavors without overpowering the sweetness of the corn.
Salt and pepper, to taste
Seasoning is the finishing touch that brings all the elements into harmony. Adjusting the salt and pepper allows you to personalize the flavor to your preference.

Directions & Preparation

Step 1: Cook the corn kernels by grilling or boiling until tender.

Cooking the corn enhances its sweetness and texture. Grilling introduces a subtle smoky flavor, while boiling is quicker and easier. Either method will yield delicious corn, so choose based on your available tools and time.

Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the corn with mayonnaise and lime juice.

This step is crucial for blending the creamy elements together before adding the rest of the ingredients. The mayonnaise and lime juice form a cohesive dressing that will later bind the corn and other ingredients while adding a creamy and tangy flavor.

Step 3: Add the crumbled cotija cheese, cilantro, and red onion to the bowl.

Incorporating these ingredients adds a variety of textures and flavors. The cheese provides a salty creaminess, while the cilantro and onion contribute fresh, aromatic notes. Mixing these elements ensures that every bite is flavorful.

Step 4: Sprinkle in the chili powder, and season with salt and pepper.

Seasoning at this stage allows for the spices to be evenly distributed throughout the salad. Adjusting salt and pepper here ensures you achieve the perfect balance of flavors, making sure the chili powder enhances rather than overwhelms the overall taste.

Step 5: Toss everything together gently to combine, ensuring even distribution.

Gentle tossing prevents the corn from breaking down while ensuring that all ingredients are well mixed. This step is essential for achieving that perfect blend of flavors in each serving.

Step 6: Taste the salad and adjust seasoning as needed before serving.

Tasting your dish is key to ensuring flavor satisfaction. Adjusting seasoning at this point allows you to personalize the dish to your liking, whether that means adding a pinch more salt or a squirt of lime.

Step 7: Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before serving.

Serving this salad promptly allows the fresh flavors to shine. However, chilling it for a short while can enhance the melding of flavors, making each ingredient more cohesive and delicious.

Embrace the Grilling Technique

Grilling the corn not only infuses it with a delightful smokiness but also creates a slightly charred texture that enhances sweetness. If you're opting for grilled corn, ensure to coat it lightly with oil and grill until tender. The caramelization from the grill contributes significantly to the depth of flavor, bringing a rustic touch to your Mexican street corn salad.

Flavor Elevation with Cheese

Cotija cheese plays a pivotal role in this salad, offering a salty contrast to the sweetness of the corn. For an even richer experience, you can try toasting the cheese slightly before incorporation, which brings out its nuttiness. Alternatively, mix in some queso fresco if you're looking for a creamier texture while keeping that signature tang.

A Zesty Twist with Avocado

For an added layer of richness, consider mixing diced avocado into your salad. The creaminess of ripe avocado complements the crunchy vegetables and sweet corn, while also making the dish heartier. Avocado not only lends flavor but also boosts the nutritional benefits of your salad, making it a well-rounded, satisfying side.

FAQs

What can I do if my salad is too thick?

If your salad is too thick, simply add a bit more mayonnaise or lime juice to loosen it up. Stir well and evaluate the consistency until it meets your preference.

How can I adjust the spice level of the salad?

To adjust the spice level, you can reduce the amount of chili powder or add more lime juice for acidity. If you enjoy more heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.

Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen corn can be used as a convenient alternative to fresh corn. Just ensure to cook it according to package instructions before adding it to your salad.

What if the corn tastes bland?

If the corn tastes bland, it likely needs more seasoning. Try adding more salt, lime juice, or chili powder to enhance the flavors.

Is there a non-dairy option for this salad?

You can replace the mayonnaise with a vegan alternative and use a dairy-free cheese substitute. This will maintain the creamy texture without dairy.

How can I make this salad more filling?

To make the salad more filling, you can add a can of drained black beans or cooked quinoa. Both options will provide additional protein and fiber.

Conclusion

Mexican street corn salad is a delightful way to enjoy the flavors of summer. With its creamy, zesty profile and fresh ingredients, every bite is a burst of taste that lingers on the palate.

This salad is not just a side dish; it's an opportunity to experiment with flavors and textures. Customize it to fit your taste preferences, and don't hesitate to make it your own.

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