Get ready for a taste explosion with my Chili Lime Grilled Corn recipe! This simple dish combines juicy corn with zesty lime and a spicy kick, making it perfect for summer cookouts. With just a few easy steps, you can impress your family and friends with this flavorful treat. Let’s fire up the grill and dive into this mouth-watering recipe that’s sure to become a favorite!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Bold Flavors: This recipe combines the sweetness of grilled corn with zesty lime and spicy chili for a vibrant flavor explosion.
- Quick and Easy:
- Perfect for Gatherings: This dish is a crowd-pleaser, making it ideal for BBQs, picnics, or any summer gathering.
- Customizable: You can easily adjust the spice level or add your favorite toppings to make it your own!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
- 4 ears of fresh corn, husked
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Zest of 1 lime
- Juice of 2 limes
- 1/4 cup grated Cotija cheese (or feta)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lime wedges for serving
To make Chili Lime Grilled Corn, you need fresh ingredients. The corn should be sweet and crisp. I like to use four ears for a good serving.
You will also need mayonnaise. It helps the spices stick to the corn. Chili powder adds a nice kick, while garlic powder gives a savory touch.
Lime plays a big role here. The zest adds brightness, and the juice gives a tangy flavor. Using two limes enhances the taste.
Cotija cheese is a must. It adds creaminess. If you cannot find it, feta works well too.
To finish, use fresh cilantro for garnish. It adds color and a fresh taste. Don't forget salt and pepper to make everything pop. Lime wedges are perfect for serving, giving an extra zesty lift.
Gather these ingredients, and you’re ready to create a dish that is simple, fun, and full of flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Grill
First, you need to preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This step ensures even cooking and a nice char.
Husk the Corn
Next, husk the corn. Remove the green husks and silk fibers from each ear of corn. Make sure to get all the silk off. This helps the corn cook evenly.
Make the Chili Lime Mayo Mixture
In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, chili powder, garlic powder, lime zest, and lime juice. Stir until everything is well combined. Add salt and pepper to taste. This mixture adds a tasty kick to your corn.
Brush and Grill the Corn
Now, brush the corn with the chili lime mayo mixture. Make sure to cover all sides well. Place the corn on the grill and cook for 10-12 minutes. Turn the corn occasionally, so it gets charred and cooked through.
Finish and Serve
When the corn is done, take it off the grill. While it’s hot, sprinkle the grated Cotija cheese over each ear. Top with chopped cilantro for freshness. Serve with lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of flavor. Enjoy!
Tips & Tricks
Grilling Tips
How to achieve the perfect char? To get that nice char, you need good heat. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the corn directly on the grill. Turn it every few minutes. This gives each side time to cook and char. Aim for about 10-12 minutes total. You want some nice grill marks!
Ideal corn selection for grilling: Pick fresh corn with bright, green husks. The kernels should feel firm and plump. You want sweet corn for the best taste. Look for ears that are heavy for their size. This means they’re juicy and full of flavor.
Mayo Mixture Variations
Alternate ingredients for personalized flavor: You can change the mayo mix to suit your taste. Try adding a splash of hot sauce for some heat. You can use Greek yogurt instead of mayo for a lighter option. Mix in some lime juice or zest for extra zing. Want a smoky flavor? Add smoked paprika to the mayo. The sky's the limit!
Serving Suggestions
Best side dishes to complement Chili Lime Grilled Corn: Chili lime grilled corn pairs well with many dishes. Serve it with tacos for a fun meal. It also goes great with grilled meats like chicken or steak. For a light meal, enjoy it with a fresh salad. Don’t forget to add some chips and salsa for crunch!
Pro Tips
- Choose Fresh Corn: Select ears of corn that are bright green and tightly packed; the kernels should be plump and milky when punctured.
- Grill Technique: For an even char, rotate the corn every few minutes while grilling to ensure all sides get that delicious smoky flavor.
- Custom Spice Blend: Feel free to adjust the spice level by adding cayenne pepper or using a different chili powder for a unique flavor profile.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair the grilled corn with a sprinkle of lime juice and additional cheese for an even more flavorful experience.
Variations
Spicy Version
Want more heat? Add jalapeños or hot sauce. You can slice fresh jalapeños and mix them into the mayo. This brings a nice kick to the corn. If you prefer hot sauce, drizzle some on after grilling. Both options make the dish bold and exciting.
Vegan Adaptation
To make this dish vegan, swap out the mayo and cheese. Use a vegan mayo to keep that creamy base. For cheese, try nutritional yeast or a vegan cheese alternative. These options keep the flavor rich without dairy. You still get that tasty and zesty experience.
Herb Infusions
Using different herbs can change the flavor profile. Try adding fresh basil, cilantro, or parsley to the mayo mix. Each herb gives the corn a unique twist. Experiment with your favorite herbs for a new taste each time. This keeps your meal fresh and interesting.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To store your grilled corn, let it cool first. Wrap each ear in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Place the wrapped corn in an airtight container or a resealable bag. Store it in the fridge. Enjoy your leftovers within three days for the best taste.
Reheating Instructions
When you're ready to enjoy the corn again, take it out of the fridge. Remove the wrap and place the corn on a plate. Cover it with a damp paper towel. Microwave it for 1-2 minutes. This method keeps the corn moist and tasty. You can also reheat it on the grill for a few minutes if you prefer that grilled flavor.
Freezing Options
To freeze grilled corn, first cool it completely. Wrap each ear tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place the wrapped corn in a freezer bag. Squeeze out as much air as you can before sealing. Corn can last in the freezer for up to six months. When you're ready to eat it, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
FAQs
How long does it take to grill corn?
It takes about 10-12 minutes to grill corn. You want to cook it over medium-high heat. Turn the corn a few times during grilling. You'll know it's done when it has nice char marks. The corn should be tender and juicy.
Can I make Chili Lime Grilled Corn ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep the corn before grilling. Husk and clean the corn a few hours in advance. You can also mix the chili lime mayo ahead of time. Just keep both in the fridge until you're ready to grill. This makes it easy to serve fresh corn at your gathering.
What is a good substitute for Cotija cheese?
If you can't find Cotija cheese, feta works well. Feta has a similar crumbly texture. You could also use Parmesan for a different taste. Both options will add salty goodness to your corn.
This blog post shared how to make Chili Lime Grilled Corn. You learned the ingredients, grilling steps, and tips for perfect results. I discussed options for spice lovers and plant-based eaters. You can store leftovers or freeze corn for later use.
Enjoy your grilled corn with friends. This dish is fun, tasty, and easy to make. Try different flavors and variations. Keep experimenting to find your favorite version. Happy grilling!
