
Elote is a beloved Mexican street food featuring grilled corn on the cob, typically slathered with a creamy mixture of mayonnaise or crema, cotija cheese, chili powder, and a squeeze of lime. It's a vibrant and flavorful snack enjoyed from street vendors across Mexico and in many Mexican-American communities.
A single ear of elote is a moderate source of carbohydrates from the corn and fat from the creamy toppings, with a small boost of protein from the cheese. It provides key nutrients like fiber, vitamin C, and B vitamins, and a typical serving ranges from 200 to 350 calories, depending on the generousness of the toppings.
| Calories | 210 kcal |
| Protein | 5 g |
| Carbs | 28 g |
| Fat | 10 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugar | 5 g |
| Sodium | 320 mg |
| Vitamin C | 12 mg |
| Thiamin (B1) | 0.2 mg |
| Folate | 45 mcg |
| Magnesium | 40 mg |
| Phosphorus | 120 mg |
| Potassium | 250 mg |
| Vitamin A | 180 IU |
| Calcium | 60 mg |
Per 1 ear (about 150 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
Culturally, elote represents the heart of Mexican street food culture—simple, communal, and bursting with flavor. Nutritionally, it's a clever way to enjoy whole corn, a staple grain, while the lime juice not only adds zing but also helps the body absorb the corn's iron.