Mexican Street Corn Salad, also known as Esquites, is the salad version of the famous Elotes — Mexican grilled corn on the cob smothered in creamy, cheesy, and spicy goodness. This dish captures the bold and lively spirit of Mexican street food: sweet roasted corn, creamy mayo-lime dressing, crumbly Cotija cheese, and a hint of chili and cilantro.

Unlike traditional corn on the cob, this salad is easy to serve, mess-free, and can be enjoyed warm or cold. It’s the perfect side dish for barbecues, tacos, grilled meats, or as a stand-alone summer favorite that bursts with flavor and texture.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it delivers all the joy of Mexican street corn in a convenient, salad-style form. The roasted or grilled corn kernels get a wonderful smoky flavor, balanced beautifully by the creamy, tangy dressing and salty Cotija cheese.

It’s one of those dishes that’s simple yet incredibly satisfying — every spoonful has a mix of crunch, creaminess, zest, and spice.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

You must try this Mexican Street Corn Salad with Cotija Cheese because:

• It’s bursting with flavor — smoky, creamy, tangy, and spicy all in one bite.
• It’s easy and quick — ready in under 20 minutes.
• It’s versatile — works as a side dish, appetizer, or topping for tacos and nachos.
• It’s authentically Mexican but easily adaptable to your taste.
• It’s a crowd-pleaser — perfect for barbecues, potlucks, or family dinners.

This dish is proof that simple ingredients can create unforgettable flavor!

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes

Servings and Nutrition

• Servings: 4–6
• Calories: ~280 kcal per serving
• Course: Side Dish / Salad
• Cuisine: Mexican

Ingredients

For the Salad:

• 4 cups corn kernels (about 5–6 ears fresh corn or frozen equivalent)
• 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
• ½ cup Cotija cheese, crumbled (or feta as substitute)
• ⅓ cup mayonnaise
• ¼ cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
• 1 lime, juiced (plus extra wedges for serving)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 jalapeño, finely chopped (optional, for spice)
• ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• ½ tsp smoked paprika or chili powder
• ¼ tsp ground cumin
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Optional Garnishes:

• Extra Cotija cheese for topping
• Extra chili powder or Tajín seasoning
• Fresh lime wedges
• Chopped green onions

Cooking Directions

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Cook the Corn

Option 1 – Skillet method (easy & quick):

1. Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the corn kernels and cook, stirring occasionally, for 6–8 minutes, until lightly charred and golden.
3. Transfer to a large mixing bowl.

Option 2 – Grilled corn (for smoky flavor):

1. Grill corn on the cob until charred, about 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally.
2. Slice the kernels off the cob and transfer to a bowl.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing

1. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, garlic, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper until smooth.
2. Adjust seasoning with extra lime juice or chili powder to taste.

Step 3: Combine Everything

1. Pour the dressing over the warm corn.
2. Add Cotija cheese, cilantro, and jalapeño (if using).
3. Toss gently until everything is evenly coated.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

1. Transfer the salad to a serving bowl or platter.
2. Sprinkle extra Cotija cheese and chili powder on top.
3. Serve with fresh lime wedges on the side.

How to Serve

• Serve warm or at room temperature for the best flavor.
• Pairs beautifully with grilled meats like steak, chicken, or shrimp.
• Use it as a topping for tacos, nachos, or burrito bowls.
• For parties, serve it in small cups or lettuce wraps for easy snacking.
• Garnish with extra cilantro and a squeeze of lime before serving for that authentic street-style finish.

Recipe Tips

• Use fresh corn if possible: It gives the sweetest, best texture. Frozen works too — just thaw and pat dry before cooking.
• Char for flavor: Lightly charring the corn adds irresistible smoky depth.
• Balance the spice: Adjust chili and lime levels based on your preference.
• Serve immediately: This salad tastes best fresh when the corn is slightly warm.
• Make it lighter: Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream and mayo.

Recipe Variations

1. Elote-Style Corn on the Cob: Skip cutting the kernels — coat grilled corn directly in the creamy dressing.
2. Spicy Chipotle Version: Add 1 tsp of chipotle sauce or chipotle powder to the dressing.
3. Avocado Street Corn Salad: Add 1 diced ripe avocado for a creamy twist.
4. Bacon Corn Salad: Mix in crispy crumbled bacon for extra flavor and crunch.
5. Southwest Corn Salad: Add black beans, diced red bell peppers, and green onions for a heartier version.
6. Vegan Version: Use vegan mayo, dairy-free yogurt, and plant-based feta or omit cheese.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage:
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
  • Stir before serving again, and add a squeeze of lime to freshen the flavor.
• Freezing:
  • Not recommended, as mayo-based dressings and fresh herbs lose texture upon thawing.
  • However, you can freeze the cooked corn kernels alone for up to 2 months and assemble the salad fresh later.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large skillet or grill pan
• Sharp knife
• Mixing bowls
• Citrus juicer (optional)
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare all ingredients but mix in the dressing just before serving to keep it fresh.

Q2: What is Cotija cheese, and can I substitute it?
Cotija is a crumbly, salty Mexican cheese similar to feta. You can use feta or Parmesan as substitutes.

Q3: Can I use canned corn?
Yes, drain and pat dry it first, then roast or char it in a skillet to add flavor.

Q4: Can I make it vegan?
Absolutely — use vegan mayo and plant-based cheese.

Q5: Can I serve it cold?
Yes! It’s delicious both warm and chilled, making it great for picnics and potlucks.

Conclusion

The Mexican Street Corn Salad with Cotija Cheese is everything you love about street food — vibrant, creamy, tangy, and smoky — all in one irresistible bowl. It’s quick, easy, and bursting with authentic Mexican flavor, making it perfect for any occasion.

Every bite celebrates the harmony of sweet corn, zesty lime, and savory cheese — a flavor explosion that’s as comforting as it is refreshing.

Whether you serve it warm beside grilled meat, or chilled at a summer barbecue, this salad is guaranteed to steal the show.