Jul 13 2026
Restaurants›Bakersfield Mass Ave›Esquites Recipe

Esquites Recipe

Inspired by Bakersfield Mass Ave
Time30m
Serves4

smokey roasted corn salad, cotija, cilantro

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Ingredients

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Vegetables

Dairy

Herbs & Spices

Condiments

Method

Preparation

  1. 1

    Roast the Corn

    Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the corn on the grill and roast for about 10-15 minutes, turning every few minutes until the corn is charred on all sides. Remove from the grill and allow to cool.

  2. 2

    Prepare the Vegetables

    While the corn is cooling, finely chop the red onion, jalapeño pepper (remove the seeds for less heat), and cilantro.

Mixing

  1. 3

    Cut the Corn Kernels

    Once the corn is cool enough to handle, cut the kernels off the cob and place them in a large mixing bowl.

  2. 4

    Combine Ingredients

    Add the chopped red onion, jalapeño, and cilantro to the bowl with the corn. Sprinkle in the smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.

  3. 5

    Add Dairy and Condiments

    Fold in the cotija cheese, mayonnaise, and lime juice. Mix gently until everything is well combined.

Serving

  1. 6

    Serve the Esquites

    Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve warm or at room temperature, garnished with additional cotija cheese and cilantro if desired.

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