Easy, Irresistible Mexican Street Corn (Elotes) Recipe — A Sustainable Crowd-Pleaser

At Sustainable Action Now, we’re not just passionate about protecting the planet—we’re all about bringing joy to your table with fresh, vibrant, and eco-conscious food choices. And what better way to do that than with a flavor-packed, street-food favorite that’s both easy to make and bursting with bold taste?

mexican street corn on a white plate topped with cilantro and cotija

Introducing our spin on Easy Mexican Street Corn on the Cob (Elotes) — a festive, feel-good dish that’s perfect for any occasion, whether you’re grilling on a warm summer night or throwing a weekend gathering with friends. And yes, this recipe is just as good as it sounds.

🌽 Why This Recipe Deserves a Spot at Every Table

Elotes—classic Mexican street corn—has become a global favorite for good reason. Creamy, tangy, smoky, and a little bit spicy, this dish is a feast for the senses and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Even better, it’s ready in under 25 minutes, uses minimal ingredients, and can be easily adapted to suit your taste.

Why it’s a standout on our sustainable recipe list:

Low-waste potential: Use fresh, seasonal corn or repurpose frozen/canned corn to minimize food waste.
Meatless & satisfying: A delicious vegetarian side that’s rich in flavor and nutrients.
Customizable & inclusive: Adapt this dish for vegan or gluten-free diets with just a few swaps.

🍴 Explore More Eco-Friendly, Flavor-Packed Recipes in Our Collection
Want more plant-based or planet-friendly meal ideas? Check out our growing collection of recipes here to keep your kitchen colorful and climate-conscious!

🌽 Ingredients You’ll Need for This Grilled Mexican Street Corn

ingredients needed to make mexican street corn sauce

4 ears of fresh sweet corn (or sub 2 cans, drained)
¼ cup Mexican Crema Agria (or sour cream if crema is unavailable)
¼ cup mayonnaise
½ cup Cotija cheese, crumbled (or substitute with feta or Parmesan)
2 garlic cloves, minced
Zest and juice of 1 fresh lime
¼ cup finely chopped cilantro
½ tsp chipotle chili powder
Pinch of fine sea salt

mexican street corn on the cobb on a white plate topped with cilantro and cotija

🔥 Step-by-Step: How to Make Elotes at Home

Grill Method (Recommended for Extra Flavor)

Preheat your grill to 400°F.
Prep your corn:
- Husks on? Soak in water for 10 minutes before grilling.
- Husks off? Spray lightly with cooking oil for those beautiful charred grill marks.
Grill the corn for 12 minutes, rotating every 3 minutes until slightly charred.

No Grill? No Problem. Try These Alternatives:

Oven Method: Roast husked corn wrapped in foil at 425°F for 20–25 minutes.
Stovetop Method: Sauté corn in a skillet over medium-high heat with a drizzle of oil until golden and slightly caramelized.

Make the Topping:

Mix together crema (or sour cream), mayo, Cotija cheese, garlic, lime juice and zest, salt, and chopped cilantro.

Assemble & Serve:

Spread the creamy topping generously over hot corn. Sprinkle with extra Cotija, a dash of chipotle chili powder, and a bit more cilantro for that fresh pop of color.

💡 Expert Tips for Next-Level Elotes

✔ Want a deeper char? Let the corn sit longer on the grill in one spot.
✔ Feeding a crowd? Just double or triple the recipe!
✔ No Cotija? Use feta, Parmesan, or queso fresco in a pinch.
✔ Make it spicier with cayenne or a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
✔ Going vegan? Swap the mayo and crema for plant-based alternatives and use vegan cheese.

🥗 Craving a Spoonable Version?

Try Mexican Street Corn Salad (aka esquites) for a fuss-free, scoopable twist. Same flavor profile, same delicious impact — just off the cob. Perfect for meal prep or potlucks! Grab the full recipe here in our sustainable recipes section.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead of time?
You can prep the sauce ahead, but grill the corn fresh for best results.

What if I only have canned or frozen corn?
You’re in luck! Simply sauté in a skillet to add some caramelization, then mix with the sauce ingredients for a similar taste.

Not a fan of cilantro?
Feel free to omit or replace it with chopped green onions or parsley.

🌱 Make It, Love It, Share It

This recipe is more than just a side dish—it’s a celebration of bold flavors, sustainable eating, and shared experiences. Whether you’re embracing a greener lifestyle or simply want to impress at your next BBQ, this Easy Mexican Street Corn (Elotes) is your go-to winner.

👉 Ready to dig in? Browse more delicious and sustainable recipes here.

Sustainable Action Now is committed to helping individuals make better choices for the planet without sacrificing flavor. Our recipes focus on sustainability, seasonality, and satisfaction. Let’s make a difference, one plate at a time.

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