Recipe Details

Esquites (Mexican Corn Salad)

Side Dishes
Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons 

    canola or vegetable oil

  • 4 cups 

    fresh or thawed frozen corn kernels (from about 5 medium ears)

  • 1/2 teaspoon 

    kosher salt

  • 1 clove 

    garlic, minced

  • 1/4 cup 

    coarsely chopped fresh cilantro

  • small jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped

  • 3 tablespoons 

    crumbled Cotija cheese, plus more for garnish

  • 2 tablespoons 

    mayonnaise or Mexican crema

  • 1 tablespoon 

    freshly squeezed lime juice

  • 1 1/2 teaspoons 

    chili powder

Description

  1. Heat the oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the corn and cook, stirring occasionally, until toasted and golden brown, about 15 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute more. Remove from the heat and let the corn cool for a few minutes.

  2. Transfer the corn to a large bowl. Add the cilantro, jalapeño, Cotija, mayonnaise, lime juice, and chili powder, and stir to combine. Top with more Cotija and serve warm or at room temperature.