Mexican Street Corn Salad – Kaiser Thrive
Summer Means Salad! Warm weather means juicy tomatoes, green vegetables, outdoor dining and light and easy meals. Salads are refreshing, require little to no cooking, and can be eaten as either your entree or a side dish.
Mexican Street Corn Salad, or esquites, is a side dish that’s popular on the streets of Mexico. A version called elotes keep the cob whole and on a stick for an on-the-go treat, while the kernels tossed in a cup are better served with an entree.
Traditionally, Mexican Street Corn is laden with fatty mayonnaise, but this version with Greek Yogurt lightens it a bit and add protein, without losing any flavor. It’s incredibly delicious and easy, making it a perfect dish for a picnic or a potluck. Cotija cheese is a crumbly Mexican cheese that’s similar to feta. You can find it at most big-chain grocery stores. Feta or Parmesan will do nicely, too. You can also grill a whole ear of corn (about 8 to 10 minutes until slightly charred on all sides) then cut the kernels off into a bowl. Trader Joe’s sells good quality frozen grilled corn kernels which works well (although never as good as fresh).
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 4 ears fresh corn kernels - about 3 cups fresh corn kernels
- Salt to taste
- 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt
- 2 ounces Cotija cheese - crumbled
- 1/4 cup red onion - diced (optional)
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves - finely chopped
- 1/2 whole lime - juiced
- Chili powder to taste
Instructions
- If using a whole ear of corn, you can start by roasting it or grilling it until the kernels are charred, and scrape off corn kernels. Or, just scrape off the kernels of a fresh ear of corn, or, slightly defrost frozen corn kernels if using, and proceed as follows.
- Heat oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add corn kernels and season to taste with salt. Allow corn to char slightly on one side, about two minutes. Then toss and repeat until corn is slightly charred all over, about 10 minutes.
- Transfer to a large bowl. Add Greek yogurt, cheese, red onion, cilantro, lime juice and chili powder.
- Toss to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve immediately.
Nutrition
KAISER FOOD FOR HEALTH. What we eat has a crucial impact on our health. That’s why the team at Kaiser Permanente are passionate about cooking and eating wholesome food for a healthier life. Kaiser Thrive recipes are contributed by Registered Dietitians, Nurses, Doctors, and Wellness Professionals. Many Kaiser facilities host weekly Farmers Markets (no membership required to visit!) to offer healthy food you can take home to make healthy spa inspired and clean-eating recipes. Find a Kaiser Farmers Market Near You.