Indulge in the rich flavors of Mexican cuisine with this delicious Esquites, a warm corn salad bursting with savory, tangy, and spicy notes. Perfect as a side dish or a light meal, this recipe is sure to delight your taste buds with its vibrant flavors.
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Ingredients:
- 4 cups fresh corn kernels (about 4-5 ears of corn)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup finely chopped white onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-2 jalapeño peppers, finely chopped (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup crumbled cotija cheese (or feta cheese)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 lime, juiced
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: Tajín seasoning, hot sauce, lime wedges
Instructions:
Cook the Corn:
- If using fresh corn on the cob, shuck the corn and carefully cut the kernels off the cob.
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the corn kernels to the skillet and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the corn is golden and slightly charred, stirring occasionally.
Prepare the Esquites:
- Push the cooked corn to one side of the skillet and add the minced garlic, chopped onion, and jalapeño peppers to the empty space.
- Sauté the aromatics for 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant, then mix them with the corn.
- Reduce the heat to medium-low.
Add the Flavors:
- Stir in the mayonnaise, crumbled cotija cheese (or feta cheese), chopped cilantro, lime juice, and chili powder into the corn mixture.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring gently, until the cheese is melted and the flavors are well combined.
Serve:
- Transfer the Esquites to a serving bowl.
- Garnish with additional crumbled cheese, chopped cilantro, a sprinkle of chili powder, and optional toppings like Tajín seasoning or hot sauce.
- Serve warm with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the salad.
Serving Suggestions:
- Side Dish: Perfect alongside grilled meats, tacos, or enchiladas.
- Light Meal: Enjoy as a satisfying vegetarian dish with a side of avocado or a fresh salad.
Cooking Tips:
- Fresh Corn: Use fresh corn for the best flavor, but frozen corn can also be used if fresh is not available.
- Charred Corn: Don’t shy away from a bit of charring on the corn kernels; it adds a smoky depth to the dish.
- Adjust Spice Level: Remove the seeds and membranes from jalapeños for a milder flavor or add more for extra heat.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Corn: Rich in fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants like lutein and zeaxanthin.
- Cotija Cheese: Adds calcium and protein, enhancing the savory flavor of the dish.
- Cilantro and Lime: Provide freshness and a burst of citrusy flavor.
Dietary Information:
- Vegetarian: Suitable for vegetarians.
- Gluten-Free: Naturally gluten-free.
- Low-Carb Option: Reduce the amount of corn or substitute with diced zucchini or bell peppers for a lower-carb version.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Bold Flavors: Combines tangy, savory, and spicy elements for a flavorful experience.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
- Versatile: Can be customized with your favorite toppings and easily adjusted to suit your spice preference.
Conclusion:
Esquites is a delightful Mexican corn salad that brings together the vibrant flavors of fresh corn, tangy cheese, zesty lime, and aromatic spices. Whether served as a side dish or a light meal, this recipe is sure to please your palate with its savory and satisfying taste. Enjoy the warmth and richness of Esquites as a delicious addition to your Mexican-inspired menu.