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Ultimate Mexican Street Corn Salad - Authentic Esquites Recipe with Chili Lime

This authentic Mexican street corn salad (esquites) transforms traditional elotes into an easy-to-eat salad with creamy cotija cheese, zesty lime, and chili spice. Perfect for summer gatherings and BBQs, it brings the vibrant flavors of Mexican street food to your table.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 27 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Calories: 280
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Ingredients
  • 6 ears fresh corn, husked
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup Mexican crema or sour cream
  • 1 cup crumbled cotija cheese
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Lime wedges for serving

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Brush the corn ears with olive oil and season lightly with salt. Grill the corn, turning occasionally, until kernels are tender and slightly charred, about 10-12 minutes. Alternatively, you can roast the corn in a 400°F oven for 20-25 minutes.
  2. While the corn is cooking, whisk together the mayonnaise, Mexican crema, lime juice, chili powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using) in a large bowl.
  3. Once the corn is cool enough to handle, carefully cut the kernels off the cobs using a sharp knife. Add the corn kernels to the dressing bowl along with the red onion, cilantro, and half of the cotija cheese. Gently toss everything together until well combined.
  4. Season the salad with salt and black pepper to taste. Transfer to a serving bowl and top with the remaining cotija cheese. Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the top.

Notes

Grilling gives authentic smoky flavor but roasting works too. Feta cheese can substitute for cotija. Prepare dressing and vegetables ahead but combine just before serving. Adjust spice level with chili powder and cayenne to preference.