Chili Verde Esquites (Mexican Corn Salad)

Can you use frozen corn to make chili verde esquites?

While fresh corn is best for this salad, you can use frozen corn in a pinch. You’ll want to thaw the corn completely and make sure it’s as dry as possible, then proceed with the recipe as directed.

If I can't get the chili verde sausage, what else can I use?

Fresh Mexican chorizo may be used in place of the chili verde sausage. Cook chorizo fully before adding to salad.

What else can you put in chili verde esquites?

Traditional recipes use corn, mayonnaise, cilantro, lime, Cotija cheese and chili powder, but you don’t have to limit yourself to just those ingredients. Try adding crumbled feta for the Cotija cheese. Swap lemon for the lime, toss in some chopped tomatoes and even green onions if you have some. If you like it spicy, try adding chopped jalapeno peppers or even something hotter! Have fun!

Is esquites served hot or cold?

Most esquites are served just slightly warm, from the corn that's just come off the grill. It's also very delicious at room temperature. If you make your esquites ahead of time and refrigerate it, let it sit at room temperature at least 30 minutes before serving.

What can you serve with chili verde esquites?

In Mexico, you can find street vendors selling cups of esquites as a snack to enjoy all by itself. That's one of our favorite ways to enjoy it, but we've also been known to serve it alongside other Mexican dishes or at a backyard barbecue.

—James Schend, Taste of Home Deputy Editor