What makes the perfect summer side dish? This flavorful grilled Mexican street corn recipe is a quick and easy homemade favorite, starring smoky grilled corn and a hint of lime juice. Save this idea for your next weeknight dinner or family gathering and try it soon.

Flavorful Grilled Mexican Street Corn Recipe

Name: Flavorful Grilled Mexican Street Corn Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 ears of corn; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 1/4 cup cotija cheese; 2 tbsp lime juice; 1 tsp chili powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/4 cup chopped cilantro; 1 clove garlic, minced

Introduction

This Flavorful Grilled Mexican Street Corn Recipe is a vibrant and delicious twist on traditional corn on the cob, blending the richness of mayonnaise, the tang of lime juice, and the depth of cotija cheese, all infused with the smoky flavor of grilled corn. It’s a dish that embodies the essence of Mexican street food, with its bold flavors and textures, yet it’s incredibly easy to make and requires minimal ingredients. The beauty of this recipe lies in its accessibility and the creativity it allows, making it perfect for backyard barbecues, picnics, or as a side dish for any meal. With everyday ingredients and a few simple steps, you can transport your taste buds to the bustling streets of Mexico, right from the comfort of your own home.

Why This Works

Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: This recipe strikes a perfect balance between creamy, tangy, smoky, and savory, using ingredients that are easily found in most supermarkets.
Ease of preparation: The steps are straightforward, from grilling the corn to mixing the toppings, making it a stress-free option for any occasion.
Impressive results with minimal effort: Despite its simplicity, the combination of flavors and textures creates a dish that is both impressive and delicious, sure to become a favorite among family and friends.

Key Ingredients

The main ingredients in this recipe include fresh corn on the cob, mayonnaise, lime juice, cotija cheese, chili powder, salt, and pepper. You can also add some cilantro for freshness and a bit of garlic for depth. For practical substitutions, you can use Greek yogurt or sour cream instead of mayonnaise for a lighter version, and feta or parmesan cheese if cotija is not available. Additionally, jalapeños or hot sauce can be added for those who like a bit of heat.

Instructions

Step 1: Begin by preheating your grill to medium heat. While the grill is heating up, husk the corn and remove the silk. Rinse the corn under cold water to remove any remaining silk.
Step 2: Grill the corn for about 10-15 minutes, turning every 2-3 minutes, until it’s lightly charred on all sides. The corn is done when it’s slightly softened and has grill marks.
Step 3: Once the corn is grilled, let it cool for a minute or two. Then, slather each ear of corn with mayonnaise, making sure to cover the entire surface. Sprinkle cotija cheese over the mayonnaise, followed by a squeeze of lime juice, a sprinkle of chili powder, salt, and pepper. Garnish with cilantro and a sprinkle of garlic powder if desired.
Step 4: For the final touches, serve the grilled corn hot, with lime wedges on the side for those who want an extra squeeze of lime juice. You can also offer additional toppings like diced onions, sour cream, or salsa for added flavor and texture.

Handy Tips

When grilling corn, make sure the grill is clean to prevent any old food residue from sticking to the corn. Also, don’t press down on the corn with your spatula while it’s grilling, as this can cause it to become dense and lose its natural sweetness.
For an extra smoky flavor, you can grill the corn with the husk on, then peel it off after grilling. Just be sure to soak the corn in water for about 30 minutes before grilling to prevent the husk from burning.
If you’re looking for a lighter version, consider using less mayonnaise or substituting it with a lighter alternative. Also, be mindful of the amount of chili powder and hot sauce you add, especially if serving to a crowd with varying levels of spice tolerance.

Heat Control

When it comes to grilling the corn, the ideal temperature is medium heat, around 375°F to 400°F. This temperature range allows for a nice char on the outside while keeping the inside tender. The timing will depend on the heat of your grill and the size of your corn, but generally, you’re looking at 10-15 minutes, turning frequently to achieve even grilling. The corn is done when it’s lightly charred and slightly softened, but still crisp. Avoid overgrilling, as this can make the corn dry and tough.

Crunch Factor

The crunch factor in this dish comes from the grilled corn itself, which should have a satisfying crunch on the outside giving way to a tender interior. Additionally, the cotija cheese adds a nice textural element, providing a bit of crunch with each bite. If you’re looking for extra crunch, consider sprinkling some toasted pepitas or chopped nuts over the top of the corn before serving.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

To elevate the dish, try grilling other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or onions alongside the corn, and serve them together as a colorful and flavorful grilled vegetable platter.
For a shortcut, use pre-grilled corn or frozen grilled corn kernels as a base, then top with your desired ingredients. This can save time and still yield delicious results.
For cleanup, have a bowl of water ready to soak any utensils or plates that have come into contact with the mayonnaise and cheese, making cleanup much easier and preventing these ingredients from hardening and sticking to surfaces.

Storage Tips

Leftover grilled corn can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Let it cool completely before storing it in an airtight container.
For reheating, wrap the corn in foil and heat it in the oven at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also reheat it on the grill for a few minutes on each side.
The best containers for storing grilled corn are airtight, moisture-proof containers to keep the corn fresh and prevent drying out.

Gift Packaging Ideas

If you’re considering gifting this dish, a creative way to package it would be in a decorative basket or box filled with grilled corn, lime wedges, cotija cheese, chili powder, and cilantro. You could also include a small bowl of mayonnaise or a lighter alternative on the side. Wrap each ear of corn individually in foil or parchment paper and tie with a ribbon for a charming and rustic presentation. Include a card with the recipe and suggestions for additional toppings for a personal touch.

Flavor Variations

Different spices: Consider adding a sprinkle of smoked paprika for a deeper, smokier flavor, or some ground cumin for a more earthy taste.
Creative toppings: In addition to the traditional mayonnaise, cotija cheese, and chili powder, you could top your grilled corn with diced tomatoes, sliced avocado, sour cream, or salsa for added flavor and texture.
Ingredient swaps: For a vegan version, swap the mayonnaise with a vegan mayonnaise alternative and use a vegan cheese or nutritional yeast to mimic the cheesy flavor. You could also use different types of cheese, like feta or parmesan, for a unique flavor profile.

Troubleshooting

Texture problems: If your corn turns out too dry, it may have been overgrilled. Try adjusting the grill time and temperature for your next batch. If the corn is too moist, it might not have been grilled long enough.
Ingredient replacements: If you can’t find cotija cheese, feta or parmesan can be used as substitutes. For mayonnaise, Greek yogurt or sour cream can add a similar creaminess.
Over/undercooking signs: Overcooked corn will be dry and tough, while undercooked corn will be hard and starchy. Aim for a lightly charred exterior and a tender, slightly yielding interior.

FAQs

Can I freeze it? Yes, you can freeze grilled corn on the cob. After grilling, let the corn cool, then wrap each ear tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place in a freezer bag. Frozen corn is best used in soups, stews, or as a side dish where it will be cooked further.
Is it gluten-free? Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten intolerance or sensitivity. Just be sure to check the ingredients of any store-bought mayonnaise or cheese to ensure they are gluten-free.
Can I double the recipe? Absolutely, this recipe can be easily doubled or tripled to serve a larger crowd. Just keep an eye on the corn while it’s grilling, as the cooking time may vary slightly with more corn on the grill.

Conclusion

This Flavorful Grilled Mexican Street Corn Recipe is a testament to the magic that happens when simple, everyday ingredients come together in perfect harmony. With its smoky grilled corn, tangy lime juice, creamy mayonnaise,! and crumbly cotija cheese, this dish is sure to delight both kids and adults alike. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe encourages creativity and adaptation, making it a wonderful addition to any meal or gathering. So, go ahead, fire up your grill, and let the vibrant flavors of Mexico inspire your next culinary adventure. And don’t forget to share your creations and the joy of cooking with others, as the true spirit of food lies not just in the eating, but in the sharing and the love that goes into every delicious bite.