Are you looking for a delicious and easy-to-make snack or side dish that’s perfect for any occasion? Look no further than esquites! Also known as Mexican street corn, these flavorful and aromatic kernels are a staple at many outdoor gatherings, parties, and barbecues. In this article, we’ll explore 19 mouthwatering esquites recipes that cater to different tastes and preferences.
From classic Mexican Street Corn Esquites to creative variations like Spicy Chipotle Esquites with Lime and Garlic Butter Esquites with Parmesan, these recipes are sure to impress your guests and satisfy your cravings. Whether you’re planning a backyard barbecue or a casual get-together with friends, esquites are the perfect addition to any menu.
In this article, we’ll dive into the world of esquites and share our favorite recipes that showcase the versatility and deliciousness of this beloved snack. So grab some corn kernels and let’s get started!
Classic Mexican Street Corn Esquites
Get ready to savor the sweet, smoky flavor of traditional Mexican street corn, also known as esquites. This simple yet flavorful recipe is perfect for a quick snack or side dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 ears of corn, husked and silked
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/2 cup grated cotija cheese (or feta as a substitute)
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Grill corn ears for 10-12 minutes, turning every 3-4 minutes, until slightly charred.
3. In a small bowl, mix together butter, mayonnaise, cotija cheese, lime juice, cumin, salt, and pepper.
4. Once corn is cooked, slather the mixture evenly onto each ear of corn.
5. Sprinkle with minced garlic (if using) and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Spicy Chipotle Esquites with Lime
Elevate your summer gatherings with this addictive and spicy twist on traditional grilled corn. The smoky heat from chipotle peppers in adobo sauce pairs perfectly with the brightness of lime juice.
Ingredients:
– 4 ears of corn, husked and silked
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
– Salt, to taste
– Optional: cotija cheese, chopped cilantro, or chili powder for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Brush corn ears with olive oil and season with salt.
3. Grill corn for 10-12 minutes, turning every 2-3 minutes, until lightly charred.
4. In a small bowl, mix minced chipotle peppers and lime juice.
5. Once corn is cooked, brush with the chipotle-lime mixture.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with your choice of cotija cheese, chopped cilantro, or chili powder.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Creamy Avocado Esquites
Esquites, or grilled corn on the cob, is a popular Mexican street food that’s easily elevated by adding creamy avocado. This recipe combines the two for a delicious and healthy twist.
Ingredients:
– 4 ears of corn, husked and silked
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: cotija cheese, chili powder, or cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Grill corn ears for 10-12 minutes, turning every 2-3 minutes, until slightly charred.
3. In a bowl, mix together diced avocado, mayonnaise, lime juice, and cumin.
4. Once corn is cooked, slather each ear with the creamy avocado mixture.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with cotija cheese, chili powder, or cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes (including grilling time)
Grilled Corn Esquites with Cotija Cheese
This recipe transforms grilled corn into a creamy, cheesy delight perfect for summer gatherings. The combination of caramelized corn, spicy chilies, and crumbly Cotija cheese is sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 4 ears of corn, husked
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup crumbled Cotija cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Grill corn for 10-12 minutes, turning every 3-4 minutes, until slightly charred.
3. In a large bowl, combine butter, mayonnaise, Cotija cheese, cilantro, and jalapeño pepper.
4. Once corn is cooked, slather the grilled corn with the creamy mixture, making sure to coat evenly.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Roasted Poblano Esquites
Roasted Poblano Esquites Recipe
Experience the flavors of Mexico with this simple yet delicious recipe for Roasted Poblano Esquites. This classic street food is perfect for snacking, and can be easily customized to suit your taste.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 poblano peppers
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt, to taste
– 1/4 cup crumbled queso fresco (or feta cheese)
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 lime, cut into wedges
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roast the poblano peppers for 10-12 minutes, or until charred and slightly softened.
3. Remove from oven and let cool. Peel off skin, then chop into small pieces.
4. In a bowl, mix together roasted poblanos, olive oil, salt, queso fresco, and cilantro.
5. Serve warm with lime wedges on the side.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Garlic Butter Esquites with Parmesan
This recipe elevates the classic grilled corn experience by adding a rich and creamy garlic butter sauce, finished with a sprinkle of nutty Parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
– 4 ears of corn, husked and silked
– 6 tablespoons (84g) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Grill corn ears for 10-12 minutes, turning every 2-3 minutes, until slightly charred.
3. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Brush the garlic butter mixture evenly onto each ear of grilled corn.
5. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the top of each ear of corn.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (grilling) + 2-3 minutes (preparation)
Zesty Lemon Herb Esquites
Add a burst of citrusy flavor to your summer gatherings with this refreshing Zesty Lemon Herb Grilled Corn recipe. This sweet and tangy twist on traditional grilled corn is perfect for potlucks, barbecues, or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 ears of corn, husked and silked
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, parsley, and dill.
3. Add the corn ears to the marinade, turning to coat evenly.
4. Grill the corn for 10-12 minutes, rotating every 2-3 minutes, until slightly charred.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve warm, slathered with butter or topped with crumbled feta cheese (optional).
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Smoky Bacon Esquites
Get ready to take your grilled corn game to the next level with this smoky, savory, and indulgent recipe. Smoky bacon esquites are a perfect side dish for any outdoor gathering or family dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 ears of sweet corn, husked and silked
– 6 slices of thick-cut smoky bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: cotija cheese, chili powder, or lime wedges for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Grill corn ears for 10-12 minutes, turning every 3-4 minutes, until slightly charred.
3. Meanwhile, cook bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add Parmesan cheese and stir until combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Once corn is grilled, brush with the smoky bacon butter mixture and sprinkle with cooked bacon pieces.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Jalapeño Lime Esquites
Elevate your snack game with this vibrant and flavorful recipe! Jalapeño Lime Esquites is a twist on the classic Mexican street corn, adding a spicy kick and a burst of citrusy freshness.
Ingredients:
– 4 ears of corn, husked and silked
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– 1/4 cup crumbled cotija cheese
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Grill corn ears for 10-12 minutes, turning every 3 minutes, until slightly charred.
3. In a bowl, mix together mayonnaise, lime juice, cotija cheese, and chopped jalapeño.
4. Brush the grilled corn with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Slather the lime-jalapeño mixture evenly onto each ear of corn.
6. Garnish with cilantro leaves, if desired.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cheesy Queso Esquites
This recipe takes the classic Mexican street corn, also known as esquites, to the next level by adding a creamy and cheesy twist. Perfect for game day gatherings or casual get-togethers, this dish is sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 4 ears of corn, husked and silked
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Monterey Jack cheese
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped cilantro, diced tomatoes, or crumbled queso fresco for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together cheese, mayonnaise, lime juice, cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Grill or boil corn ears until slightly charred or tender.
4. Slather the cheesy mixture onto each ear of corn.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Garnish with desired toppings, if using.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cilantro Lime Esquites with Feta
Elevate your grilled corn game with this flavorful and refreshing recipe that combines the brightness of lime juice, the pungency of cilantro, and the tanginess of feta cheese.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 cups grilled corn on the cob, cooled
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Grill or cook corn according to package instructions. Let cool.
- In a small bowl, mix together cilantro leaves, lime juice, and a pinch of salt.
- Slice the cooled corn into 1-inch pieces.
- Add the corn to the cilantro mixture and toss to coat.
- Top with crumbled feta cheese and season with pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Sweet Corn Esquites with Honey Butter
Sweet Corn Esquites with Honey Butter: A Simple yet Delicious Twist on Grilled Corn!
This recipe adds a touch of sweetness to the classic grilled corn, making it perfect for summer gatherings or as a side dish. The combination of caramelized corn, creamy honey butter, and crunchy cotija cheese is sure to be a hit.
Ingredients:
– 4 ears of sweet corn
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tbsp pure honey
– 1/2 tsp sea salt
– 1/4 cup crumbled cotija cheese
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Grill corn for 10-12 minutes, turning every 3-4 minutes, until slightly charred and tender.
3. Meanwhile, mix softened butter and honey in a small bowl until well combined.
4. Once corn is cooked, brush with the honey butter mixture.
5. Sprinkle cotija cheese over the corn and season with sea salt to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chili Lime Esquites with Tajin
Elevate your summer gatherings with this mouthwatering recipe that combines the sweetness of grilled corn with the bold flavors of chili lime and a sprinkle of Tajín.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 ears of corn, husked and silked
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt to taste
– 1 packet Tajín (chili-lime seasoning)
– Optional: 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Grill corn for 10-12 minutes, turning every 2-3 minutes, until slightly charred.
3. In a small bowl, mix together mayonnaise, lime juice, chili powder, garlic powder, and salt.
4. Once corn is cooked, brush the chili-lime mixture evenly onto each ear of corn.
5. Sprinkle Tajín to taste over the corn.
6. If using jalapeño, chop and sprinkle on top for added heat.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Herbed Butter Esquites with Chives
Elevate your grilled corn game with this simple and flavorful recipe that combines the richness of herbed butter with the brightness of chives. Perfect for summer gatherings or as a side dish for your next backyard BBQ.
Ingredients:
– 4 ears of corn, husked and silked
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 teaspoon lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together butter, chives, parsley, and lemon zest until well combined.
3. Grill corn for 10-12 minutes, turning every 2-3 minutes, until slightly charred and tender.
4. Slather herbed butter mixture onto each ear of corn during the last minute of grilling.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Truffle Oil Esquites with Parmesan
Elevate your snack game with this decadent recipe for Truffle Oil Esquites with Parmesan!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup freshly shucked corn kernels (about 4 ears)
– 2 tablespoons truffle oil
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, toss the corn kernels with truffle oil and salt until well coated.
3. Grill the corn for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until slightly charred and tender.
4. Remove from heat and sprinkle Parmesan cheese evenly over the grilled corn.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Roasted Red Pepper Esquites
Elevate your summer gatherings with this flavorful twist on traditional grilled corn. Roasting red peppers adds a depth of sweetness and smokiness that pairs perfectly with the natural sweetness of corn.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 ears of corn, husked and silked
– 2 large red bell peppers
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Place corn ears on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
3. Roast corn for 15-20 minutes or until slightly charred.
4. Meanwhile, place red bell peppers on the same baking sheet and roast for an additional 30-40 minutes or until blistered and charred.
5. Remove from oven and let cool. Peel skin off peppers, then chop into small pieces.
6. Mix roasted corn with lime juice, cumin, salt, and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
Spicy Sriracha Esquites
Elevate your snack game with this addictive recipe that combines the creamy richness of grilled corn with the spicy kick of sriracha. Perfect for movie nights or as a quick pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 ears of corn, husked and silked
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons sriracha sauce
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: crumbled queso fresco, chopped cilantro, or diced tomatoes
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Grill corn ears for 10-12 minutes, turning frequently, until slightly charred.
3. Slather each ear with butter, then sprinkle with salt and pepper.
4. In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, sriracha sauce, and lime juice.
5. Brush the mixture onto each ear of corn.
6. Serve warm, topped with your desired optional toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mexican Street Corn Esquites Salad
This vibrant salad combines the flavors of grilled corn, creamy avocado, and tangy lime juice to create a delicious and refreshing side dish. Perfect for warm weather gatherings or as a light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 ears of corn, husked and silked
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Grill corn ears for 10-12 minutes, turning frequently, until slightly charred.
3. Meanwhile, combine diced avocado, sliced red onion, and chopped jalapeño in a bowl.
4. Once corn is cooked, let it cool slightly before cutting kernels off the cob.
5. Add lime juice, cumin, salt, and pepper to the bowl with avocado mixture; stir to combine.
6. Fold in grilled corn kernels into the bowl.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
8. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Grilled Corn Esquites with Cilantro Aioli
Grilled Corn Esquites with Cilantro Aioli: A flavorful twist on traditional Mexican street corn, this recipe combines the sweetness of grilled corn with the freshness of cilantro and a tangy aioli sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 ears of corn, husked and silked
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Grill corn for 10-12 minutes, turning every 3-4 minutes, until slightly charred.
3. In a bowl, mix together mayonnaise, cilantro, lime juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Once corn is grilled, slather with the cilantro aioli and sprinkle with chopped jalapeño (if using).
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the delicious world of esquites! This collection of 19 mouth-watering recipes offers something for every taste and occasion. From classic Mexican Street Corn Esquites to bold and spicy options like Chipotle and Sriracha, you’ll find inspiration for your next BBQ, potluck, or simply a quick weeknight dinner. Try your hand at creamy Avocado Esquites, cheesy Queso Esquites, or even sweet and savory Honey Butter Esquites. Whatever the flavor, these esquites recipes are sure to delight!
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