Market Umbrella is an independent nonprofit 501(c)(3), based in New Orleans, whose mission is to cultivate the power of farmers markets to drive economic and community health in the region. Market Umbrella has operated the Crescent City Farmers Markets (CCFM) since 1995.
Recipe
Esquites
Esquites is a delicious snack that is a staple in Mexico and parts of the Southwest. This dish is a great way to enjoy fresh sweet corn with an added twist of chile, Cotija cheese, mayo, and lime juice. It’s like Elote (Mexican Street Corn) but in a cup. Each bite hits all of the right notes: zingy, creamy, and delightful. Buen provecho!

Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cups fresh corn kernels, cut off the cob (about 4 med ears of corn)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (1 teaspoon)
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup crumbled cotija cheese, plus more for garnish
- 1 jalapeno pepper, minced (seeds removed if you don't want it spicy)
- 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
- juice of 1 lime
- chili powder, to taste
Directions
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add butter, fresh corn kernels, and garlic. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 5 minutes. Transfer to a medium mixing bowl.
Add mayonnaise, cotija cheese, jalapeno, cilantro, salt, and lime juice. Mix until fully combined. Taste and season with more salt and mayonnaise if desired.
Garnish with chili powder to your liking, a lime wedge, and a sprinkle cotija cheese.
Serve immediately.
About Us
The Crescent City Farmers Market operates weekly year-round throughout New Orleans. The CCFM hosts 70+ local small farmers, fishers, and food producers, and more than 150,000 shoppers annually.