Mexican Corn Salad (Esquites)
User Reviews
5
Mexican Corn Salad (Esquites)
Description
Mexican Corn Salad (Esquites) is made from tender, bright yellow corn kernels boiled until just cooked through, then tossed with creamy mayonnaise and grated Parmesan cheese to create a rich, tangy base. The lime juice adds acidity, enhancing the freshness of the salad, while Tajin seasoning or chili powder imparts a mild, zesty heat typical of Mexican street food flavors.
The salad’s texture is a pleasing contrast between the crisp corn kernels, creamy dressing, and the slight granular quality of the cheese. Garnishing with minced fresh cilantro adds herbal freshness and color. Serving it with Nacho Cheese Doritos is a traditional accompaniment in some regions of Mexico, providing crispness and a savory note to each bite.
This recipe makes about 8 cups, making it suitable for sharing at gatherings or as a flavorful side dish. You can prepare the corn ahead of time and store in the refrigerator before assembling the salad. Variations in cheese and chili powder allow customization to preference and ingredient availability.
Ingredients
- 6 cups corn thawed (see note 1, frozen
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup Parmesan Cheese see note 2, grated
- 2 tablespoons lime juice or more to taste
- tajin seasoning or chili powder, to taste (see note 3)
- cilantro for garnish, fresh, minced
- Nacho Cheese Doritos for serving (see note 4)
Instructions
- In a large pot, bring 4 quarts water to boil. Add corn and boil until bright yellow and tender, about 4 minutes. Spread on a rimmed baking sheet to cool.
- In a large bowl, add cooled corn, mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, and lime juice. Stir to combine, then sprinkle with Tajin or chili powder. Garnish with cilantro and serve with Doritos.
Notes
- Substitute fresh corn by boiling 8 ears and cutting off kernels to yield about 6 cups.
- Use grated Parmesan from a green shaker or substitute Cotija or feta cheese for authenticity.
- Tajin adds bright lime and mild chili flavor; chili powder or cayenne pepper works as alternatives.
- Serve with Nacho Cheese Doritos, Fritos, or tortilla chips to add crunch.
- Store leftovers covered in the fridge for up to 4 days; make ahead by cooking corn a day before.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 16servings (1/2 cup each)
Amount Per Serving
Calories 183 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Serving | 0.5cup | |
| Calories | 183kcal | 9% |
| Carbohydrates | 16g | 5% |
| Protein | 4g | 8% |
| Fat | 13g | 20% |
| Saturated Fat | 3g | 15% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 7g | 41% |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 3g | 15% |
| Trans Fat | 1g | 50% |
| Cholesterol | 11mg | 4% |
| Sodium | 201mg | 8% |
| Potassium | 198mg | 4% |
| Fiber | 2g | 8% |
| Sugar | 1g | 2% |
| Vitamin A | 67IU | 1% |
| Vitamin C | 5mg | 6% |
| Calcium | 59mg | 6% |
| Iron | 1mg | 6% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
5
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