Esquites are the salad form of elotes, charcoal-grilled Mexican corn on the cob that is slathered with a creamy sauce, seasoned with chile powder and lime juice and topped with Cotija, a crumbly, aged Mexican cheese. This version doesn't require a grill, and instead chars the corn kernels in a hot skillet until browned and caramelized. Cotija brings salty, milky accents to the salad. Ancho chile powder adds smoky notes, but you can use any type of chile powder you favor. Leftovers transform quickly into a great pasta salad the next day; simply toss with cooked pasta and olive oil.
Provided by Kay Chun
Categories salads and dressings, vegetables, side dish
Time 15m
Yield 6 to 8 servings
Number Of Ingredients 9
Steps:
- In a large cast iron or heavy skillet, heat oil over medium-high. Add corn, season with salt and pepper, and cook, stirring occasionally, until corn is nicely charred and softened, 8 to 10 minutes. Turn off the heat and let stand for 2 minutes. (This helps the corn pick up more char and smoky flavor.)
- Meanwhile, in a large bowl, combine mayonnaise, crema, cilantro and lime juice; season with salt and pepper. Reserve 1/4 cup sauce in a small bowl for drizzling.
- Add seared corn to the large bowl, season with salt and pepper and toss to coat. Transfer to a large serving platter, spreading corn mixture in an even layer. Drizzle with the reserved sauce, and sprinkle with Cotija and chile powder. Garnish with more cilantro and serve with lime wedges.
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Ultragamer3
ultragamer34@yahoo.comEsquites is the perfect summer side dish. It's light, refreshing, and full of flavor.
Damian Herrera
d-herrera43@gmail.comThis recipe is a great way to introduce kids to Mexican food.
ally mongwe
mongwe.a42@gmail.comI used fresh corn kernels instead of canned corn, and it made a big difference in the flavor.
Nansamba Sumaiah
snansamba91@hotmail.comI added some chopped jalapenos to my esquites, and it gave it a nice spicy kick.
Irha Fatima
fatima6@yahoo.comThis is a great recipe for using up leftover corn on the cob.
Wiki 571
wiki61@yahoo.comI love that this recipe can be made ahead of time. It's perfect for busy weeknights.
Olabisi hadunni
olabisi-hadunni17@gmail.comThis esquites recipe is so easy to make, and it's so delicious. I've made it several times now, and it's always a hit.
Bryan Jenkins
jenkins_b24@gmail.comI made this recipe for my family, and they all loved it. Even my picky kids ate it up! It's a great dish for a summer cookout.
Alexandria Helton
ah18@yahoo.comI'm not usually a fan of corn, but this dish has changed my mind. The smoky flavor of the roasted corn is amazing, and the toppings are the perfect complement.
Jace
jace@gmail.comI've tried a lot of esquites recipes, but this one is by far the best. The addition of the cotija cheese and cilantro really takes it to the next level.
Malik shehzad Malik shehzad
ms@hotmail.comThis esquites recipe was a hit at my last party! The flavors were so well-balanced, and the corn was cooked perfectly. I'll definitely be making this again.