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A high-angle shot of a deconstructed street corn salad bowl with all the fresh ingredients like corn, cilantro, and red onion ready to be mixed.

Street Corn Bowl: The Ultimate Elote-Inspired Recipe

This vibrant Street Corn Bowl captures the smoky, creamy, and zesty flavors of Mexican elote in a satisfying meal. Featuring charred corn, a zesty chipotle crema, and fresh ingredients, it's a delicious and easy-to-make dish perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 bowls
Course: Dinner, Lunch, Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup quinoa rinsed
  • 2 cups water or vegetable broth
  • 3 cups corn kernels from about 4 ears, or frozen
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans rinsed and drained
  • 1/2 cup red onion finely diced
  • 1/2 cup fresh cilantro chopped
  • 1/2 cup cotija cheese crumbled
  • 1 avocado sliced
  • 1 cup Greek yogurt or sour cream
  • 1-2 chipotle peppers in adobo minced, plus 1 tbsp adobo sauce
  • 2 tbsp lime juice freshly squeezed
  • 1 clove garlic minced
  • 1/2 tsp chili powder
  • 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt to taste

Equipment

  • 1 Large Skillet or Grill
  • 1 Medium Saucepan
  • 2 Mixing Bowls

Method
 

  1. In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa and water or broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork.
  2. While the quinoa cooks, heat a large cast-iron skillet over high heat. Add the corn kernels in a single layer (you may need to do this in batches) and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until charred and blistered. Remove from heat and set aside.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, minced chipotle peppers, adobo sauce, lime juice, garlic, chili powder, and smoked paprika until smooth. Season with salt to taste.
  4. Divide the cooked quinoa among four bowls. Top with the charred corn, black beans, diced red onion, and chopped cilantro. Drizzle generously with the chipotle crema.
  5. Finish each bowl with crumbled cotija cheese and fresh avocado slices. Serve immediately with extra lime wedges on the side.

Notes

Pro Tip: For an even smokier flavor, use fire-roasted canned corn if you're short on time.
Storage: Store components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Assemble just before serving for the best texture.