🖋️ Written by Emma
If you’re craving bold, creamy, and tangy flavor in one quick bowl, this Mexican Street Corn Salad, also known as Esquites, brings it all. It’s one of the most beloved no-cook Mexican dinners for good reason—charred (or canned) corn tossed with mayo, lime, cheese, and chili hits every note.
Perfect as a side or light meal on a hot day, this dish is fast, flexible, and packed with crave-worthy flavor. For anyone exploring Summer Mexican Recipes, this recipe is a must-make.
Looking for other no-cook favorites? Try our No-Cook Mexican Bean Salad or Shrimp Ceviche with Mango.
Table of Contents
Mexican Street Corn Salad (Esquites)
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- If using fresh or frozen corn, char it in a hot skillet for 5 minutes until slightly golden. (Or use canned—drained.)
- In a large bowl, combine corn, mayo, lime juice, salt, and chili powder.
- Add cheese and cilantro, stir gently.
- Taste and adjust seasoning.
- Serve warm, room temp, or chilled.
Notes
How to Make Mexican Street Corn Salad (Esquites)
Ingredients for Mexican Street Corn Salad
- 3 cups corn (fresh, canned, or frozen)
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup crumbled cotija cheese (or feta)
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder or Tajín
- 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- Optional: diced jalapeño, avocado, green onion
Steps to Prepare Esquites
- If using fresh or frozen corn, char it in a hot skillet for 5 minutes until slightly golden. (Or use canned—drained.)
- In a large bowl, combine corn, mayo, lime juice, salt, and chili powder.
- Add cheese and cilantro, stir gently.
- Taste and adjust seasoning.
- Serve warm, room temp, or chilled.
Benefits of This Mexican Street Corn Salad
Fast, Tangy, and Addictive
Between the creamy mayo, lime, and salty cotija, this dish brings richness with brightness in every bite.
No Oven, No Fuss
All you need is a pan or a bowl—this salad is one of the easiest light Mexican meals you’ll ever make.
Tips for Perfect Street Corn Salad (Esquites)
Use Fresh Ingredients for Best Flavor
Fresh corn off the cob is ideal, but canned or frozen work well if roasted slightly.
Customize Your Heat Level
Add jalapeño for a kick, or keep it mild for kids. Top with avocado to cool it down.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve in cups at summer BBQs
- Add grilled shrimp or chicken on top for a full meal
- Spoon over baked potatoes or nachos
- Eat with tortilla chips for a loaded dip feel
- Pair with Ceviche or Bean Salad
FAQs – Mexican Street Corn Salad (Esquites)
What is in Mexican street corn salad?
Mexican street corn salad typically includes grilled corn, mayonnaise, lime juice, Cotija cheese, chili powder, cilantro, and garlic.
What is the four ingredient corn salad recipe?
A simple version includes corn, mayonnaise, lime juice, and Cotija or feta cheese.
What sauce is on Mexican street corn?
The sauce is usually a mix of mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, garlic, and chili powder.
What can I use instead of Cotija cheese in Mexican street corn?
Feta, Parmesan, or queso fresco can be used as alternatives to Cotija cheese.
What are the main ingredients in street corn?
Grilled corn, mayonnaise, lime, Cotija cheese, and chili powder are the core components.
What is Cotija cheese?
Cotija is a salty, crumbly Mexican cheese made from cow’s milk, similar in texture to feta.
What is in the Mexican street corn salad kit?
Store-bought kits typically include canned corn, seasoning blend, cheese (or cheese substitute), and creamy dressing.
What does corn salad have in it?
Corn salad may include corn, onions, herbs, cheese, and a creamy or vinaigrette-style dressing.
Is corn salad healthy for weight loss?
Corn salad can be part of a healthy diet if made with light dressing and served in moderation due to corn’s carb content.
What can I use instead of cotija cheese?
Feta is the closest in texture and flavor. Parmesan or queso fresco also work depending on the recipe.
Why is Mexican street corn so good?
It balances sweet, tangy, spicy, and creamy flavors, with grilled corn adding a smoky touch.
How to make Mexican street corn reddit?
On Reddit, popular versions involve mixing grilled corn with mayo, lime, chili, cheese, and sometimes jalapeños or Tajín.
Is cotija cheese just Parmesan?
No, but they’re similar. Cotija is saltier and crumblier, while Parmesan is aged and firmer.
What kind of cheese is good for Mexican street corn?
Cotija is traditional, but feta, queso fresco, or grated Parmesan are all good substitutes.
Which is better for tacos, cotija or queso fresco?
Cotija adds more salt and punch, while queso fresco is milder. Choose based on flavor preference.
Is Mexican street corn salad served hot or cold?
It can be served warm, room temperature, or cold—depending on preference.
What is in street corn dip?
Street corn dip includes corn, mayo, cream cheese or sour cream, lime, Cotija, and chili powder, often served warm with chips.
Why is it called corn salad?
Because the main ingredient is corn, and it’s typically mixed with herbs, veggies, and dressing—like a classic salad.
Conclusion
Mexican Street Corn Salad (Esquites) is everything you want in a summer side: creamy, crunchy, tangy, and totally addictive. It’s easy, quick, and full of flavor—perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining friends.
Looking for more no-cook Mexican dinners and summer dishes? Check out our full Easy Summer Mexican Recipes guide.
For more feel-good meals, head to WhatToMakeToday.com and follow @whattomaketoday on Pinterest.
