Vegan Mexican Elote Corn

Elote, also known as Mexican street corn, is a culinary delight that brings vibrant flavors to your plate. Traditionally slathered with mayonnaise, cheese, and spices, this beloved dish gets a plant-based makeover in our Vegan Mexican Elote Corn recipe. Perfectly charred corn coated with tangy, creamy, and spicy goodness delivers the ultimate bite—one that’s not just crave-worthy but also packed with health and beauty benefits. Whether you’re firing up the grill for a summer barbecue or whipping up a quick side dish, this recipe will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Why stop at delicious when you can make it nutritious? This vegan elote recipe is brimming with nutrients that support radiant skin, luscious hair, and overall wellness. From antioxidant-packed cashews in the sauce to zesty lime and smoky paprika, every ingredient contributes to your beauty from the inside out. Ready to upgrade your summer menu and glow from within? Keep scrolling for the recipe, health perks, and pro tips to make your elote as beautiful as it is tasty.

What Is Elote?

Elote, meaning “corn on the cob” in Spanish, is a beloved staple of Mexican cuisine. Traditionally, it’s chargrilled and slathered with a bold combination of mayonnaise, lime juice, cotija cheese, chili powder, and more. This vegan version swaps out the dairy and uses a plant-based cashew cream sauce that’s equally rich and indulgent. The result? A healthier, cruelty-free twist on a classic without sacrificing flavor.

Health Benefits of Vegan Elote

This dish isn’t just a feast for your taste buds—it’s also a nutrient-packed treat for your body. Let’s break down the key ingredients and their benefits:

Corn: A Fiber-Rich Powerhouse

Corn isn’t just a delicious summer veggie; it’s also loaded with dietary fiber to aid digestion and keep you feeling full. It’s a great source of vitamins like B6 and folate, which support energy production and healthy skin. A single ear of corn also contains antioxidants like lutein and zeaxanthin, known for promoting eye health.

Cashews: Nature’s Creamy Nutrient Boost

The creamy sauce in this recipe is made from cashews, a heart-healthy nut loaded with unsaturated fats, magnesium, and zinc. Zinc, in particular, plays a key role in skin repair and immune support. Cashews are also rich in copper, which helps boost collagen production—keeping your skin firm and radiant.

Lime: A Zesty Dose of Vitamin C

The lime juice in this recipe not only adds a tangy burst of flavor but also provides a generous dose of vitamin C. This powerhouse vitamin helps brighten your complexion, protect against sun damage, and boost collagen for youthful, glowing skin.

Paprika and Chili Powder: Spice Up Your Glow

Smoked paprika and chili powder bring the heat while offering serious beauty benefits. Rich in capsaicin, these spices promote blood circulation, which can enhance your skin’s natural glow. They also contain antioxidants that fight free radicals, keeping your complexion smooth and clear.

Nutritional Yeast: The Cheese Alternative That Loves You Back

Nutritional yeast is the secret ingredient for creating that cheesy flavor without dairy. Packed with B vitamins, protein, and antioxidants, it supports healthy hair, skin, and nails.

Vegan Mexican Elote Corn: Sweet, Spicy, and Smoky Goodness

Here’s how to create the ultimate vegan elote that’s as nourishing as it is delicious.

Ingredients

• 4 ears of corn, husks removed
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (or avocado oil)
• 1 cup raw cashews (soaked in hot water for 30 minutes)
• 1/4 cup unsweetened plant-based milk (almond, oat, or soy work best)
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust for spice level)
• 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
• 1 tablespoon agave syrup (optional, for slight sweetness)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup finely chopped cilantro (for garnish)
• Lime wedges (for serving)

Instructions

1: Prepare the Corn

1. Preheat your grill or stovetop grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Brush each ear of corn with olive oil and sprinkle with a pinch of salt.
3. Grill the corn, turning occasionally, until lightly charred and tender (approximately 8–10 minutes). Set aside to cool slightly.

2: Make the Cashew Cream Sauce

1. Drain the soaked cashews and add them to a blender.
2. Add plant-based milk, lime juice, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, chili powder, nutritional yeast, agave syrup (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper.
3. Blend until smooth and creamy. Adjust the consistency as needed by adding more plant-based milk, a tablespoon at a time. Taste and adjust seasoning.

3: Assemble the Elote

1. Generously slather the cashew cream sauce over each ear of corn, ensuring an even coating.
2. Sprinkle with additional smoked paprika, chili powder, and finely chopped cilantro for garnish.
3. Serve with lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of zest.

Pro Tips:

• Make it portable: Turn your elote into esquites (Mexican street corn salad) by cutting the kernels off the cob and tossing them with the sauce and toppings. Perfect for picnics or meal prep!
• Add crunch: Sprinkle crushed tortilla chips or roasted pepitas on top for a fun texture twist.
• Amp up the protein: Mix in a tablespoon of hemp seeds to the cashew cream for a protein boost.

The Beauty Benefits of Plant-Based Living

A recipe this tasty is already a winner, but the beauty benefits take it to the next level. Following a plant-based diet rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and healthy fats can transform your skin and hair. This vegan elote recipe delivers nutrients that nourish from the inside out, helping to:

• Brighten your complexion with vitamin C from lime and corn.
• Support collagen production with copper from cashews.
• Strengthen hair and nails with B vitamins in nutritional yeast.
• Promote clear, glowing skin with antioxidants in paprika and chili powder.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Vegan elote is the perfect blend of indulgence and health. The smoky, sweet, and spicy flavors bring comfort food vibes, while the nutrient-dense ingredients work behind the scenes to boost your beauty and wellness. Whether you’re hosting a summer cookout or craving a quick, satisfying snack, this recipe checks all the boxes.

Ready to dig in? Vegan Mexican Elote Corn recipe isn’t just food—it’s a celebration of flavor, health, and beauty. Try it today and let your glow shine from the inside out!

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