Description
A quick, bold, and flavor-packed dish inspired by classic elote—sweet corn tossed with creamy lime dressing, crumbly cotija cheese, and a touch of chili. Perfect as a side dish, topping, or meal on its own.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 cups fresh corn kernels (about 5–6 ears, or frozen equivalent)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 tbsp mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt)
- 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
- 1 tsp chili powder or Tajín (plus more for topping)
- 1 garlic clove, grated or finely minced
- 1/2 cup cotija cheese, crumbled (or feta substitute)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Salt, to taste
- Lime wedges, for serving
Instructions
- Heat a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high. Add olive oil.
- Add corn kernels in a single layer. Let sit undisturbed for 2–3 minutes, then stir occasionally until lightly charred, about 5–7 minutes.
- In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, lime juice, chili powder, and garlic. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Transfer hot corn to a mixing bowl. Toss with dressing until evenly coated.
- Top with cotija cheese, cilantro, and an extra squeeze of lime. Sprinkle more chili powder or Tajín if desired.
- Serve warm, or chill for a refreshing cold version.
Notes
- Add diced avocado or black beans to make it a meal.
- For more heat, mix in cayenne pepper or diced jalapeño.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan—sear in two batches if necessary.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish / Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 265
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 290mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 12mg