Creamy, tangy, and packed with bold flavor, Esquites—also known as elote en vaso or Mexican street corn salad—is a quick and satisfying side dish or snack that comes together in just 10 minutes. Sweet corn is sautéed with garlic and jalapeño, then tossed in a creamy mixture of mayonnaise, cotija cheese, fresh cilantro, and lime juice for an irresistible combination of flavors and perfect for summer!
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cups corn kernels (about 2 cans*, drained, or 4 medium ears of fresh corn)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 jalapeño, minced (optional; remove seeds for less heat)
- 1/4 cup crema or mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup crumbled cotija cheese, plus more for garnish
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon fine salt
- 2 tablespoons lime juice (about 1 lime)
- Chili powder, to taste
- 1 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- 1 teaspoon chili lime seasoning (optional)
* Items are commonly available through the Redwood Empire Food Bank Senior Basket or Groceries to Go program.
Instructions
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the butter, corn, garlic, and jalapeño. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5 minutes until the corn is warmed through and lightly sautéed.
- Transfer the mixture to a medium bowl. Add the mayonnaise, cotija cheese, cilantro, salt, lime juice, chili powder, paprika, and chili lime seasoning (if using). Stir until everything is well combined.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt, mayonnaise, or chili powder as desired.
- Divide into serving cups or bowls and garnish with extra cotija cheese, a sprinkle of chili powder, and a lime wedge. Serve warm or chilled!
Tips
- Fresh, frozen, or canned corn all work well in this recipe.
- The amount of chili powder is completely customizable—add more or less depending on your preferred spice level.
- Jalapeño and cilantro are optional and can be omitted to suit your taste.
- For the brightest flavor, use freshly squeezed lime juice just before serving.
Final Thoughts
Whether you're serving it alongside grilled favorites, bringing it to a summer gathering, or enjoying it as a quick snack, this easy Esquites recipe delivers bold, fresh flavor in every bite. At the Redwood Empire Food Bank, we love recipes like this that transform simple pantry staples into delicious meals that bring people together around the table. Enjoy!
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