Get ready to elevate your summer grilling with a mouthwatering twist on corn! My Chili Lime Grilled Corn is a fun, zesty treat bursting with flavor. This easy recipe makes sweet corn shine while a chili lime marinade adds the perfect kick. Follow along as I guide you through the steps to achieve that perfect char and delectable taste. Your BBQ guests will be begging for seconds! Let’s get grilling!
Ingredients
Fresh Corn
For this recipe, I use four ears of fresh corn. Fresh corn gives the best taste. Make sure to husk it well. Remove all the silk and strings. This way, the corn cooks evenly on the grill. Choosing sweet, plump kernels makes a big difference.
Spices and Seasonings
The spices add a punch to the corn. Here’s what you’ll need:
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Zest and juice from one lime
– Salt to taste
Mix the melted butter with chili powder, smoked paprika, lime zest, and salt. This blend will coat the corn in flavor. The chili powder brings heat, while the lime adds brightness.
Optional Toppings
If you want to take your corn to the next level, use these toppings:
– 1/4 cup cotija cheese, crumbled
– Fresh cilantro, chopped for garnish
These toppings add creaminess and freshness. Cotija cheese brings a salty flavor that pairs well with the spice. Fresh cilantro gives the dish a pop of color and taste.
For the full recipe, check out the complete instructions. Enjoy making a delicious side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Grill
First, you need to heat your grill. Preheat it to medium-high heat. This step is key to getting that nice char on the corn. While the grill heats, take time to husk the corn. Remove all the silk and strings. You want clean ears of corn for grilling.
Making the Chili Lime Marinade
Now, let’s create the chili lime marinade. In a small bowl, mix these ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Zest from 1 lime
– Juice from 1 lime
– Salt to taste
This mix brings a great kick to the corn. Make sure to blend it well. Use a brush to apply the marinade. You want to coat all sides of the corn evenly.
Grilling the Corn
Once the grill is hot, it’s time to grill the corn. Place the corn directly on the grill grates. Cook for about 10-15 minutes. Turn the corn occasionally. This helps it cook evenly and get those lovely grill marks.
When the kernels are tender and slightly charred, it’s done. Take the corn off the grill. Drizzle lime juice over it for extra flavor. If you like, sprinkle cotija cheese on top. Finish with fresh cilantro for a bright touch.
For the full recipe, check out the details listed earlier. Enjoy your zesty treat!
Tips & Tricks
Choosing the Right Corn
Pick fresh corn for the best taste. Look for ears with bright green husks. The silk should be golden and moist. Fresh corn kernels should be plump and tightly packed. If you can, buy corn from a local farmer’s market. This way, you enjoy peak flavor and support local growers.
How to Achieve Perfect Grill Marks
To get those lovely grill marks, preheat your grill well. Medium-high heat is great for corn. Place the corn directly on the grates, and don’t move it too soon. Let it sit for a few minutes before turning it. This helps create nice, dark marks on the kernels. Turn the corn every few minutes for even cooking.
Enhancing Flavor with Additional Ingredients
You can add extra flavor to your chili lime grilled corn. Try mixing garlic powder or onion powder into the butter mix. For a more zesty kick, add some cayenne pepper. You can also use different cheeses like feta or parmesan. Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can brighten the dish too. Explore new flavors to make this grilled corn your own! For the full recipe, check out the earlier section.
Variations
Spicy Chili Lime Grilled Corn
If you love heat, this version is for you. Start with the base recipe for chili lime grilled corn. Add extra chili powder or some cayenne pepper for a kick. You can also mix in a dash of hot sauce into your marinade. It makes a nice blend of sweet and spicy.
Herb-Infused Grilled Corn
For a fresh twist, try adding herbs. Mix chopped fresh basil or parsley into your marinade. You can also use a bit of oregano for an earthy touch. This adds a bright flavor that pairs well with the chili lime taste. The herbs give a lovely aroma while grilling.
Vegan Adaptation for Chili Lime Corn
To make this dish vegan, swap out the butter. Use olive oil or vegan butter instead. You can still enjoy the same bold flavors with this change. If you want some creaminess, sprinkle nutritional yeast on top instead of cotija cheese. This keeps it plant-based but adds a savory kick.
Feel free to mix and match these variations. Each option brings something unique to your grilled corn experience. For the full recipe, check out the steps above. Enjoy your flavorful grilling delight!
Storage Info
Storing Leftover Grilled Corn
After enjoying your chili lime grilled corn, you might have some left over. Let it cool down first. Then, wrap each ear in plastic wrap or foil. Place the wrapped corn in an airtight container. You can keep it in the fridge for up to three days. This helps keep the corn fresh and tasty.
Reheating Techniques
When it’s time to eat the leftovers, you have a few good options. You can reheat the corn on the grill. Just place it on a low heat for about 5 minutes. Turn it often to warm it evenly. You can also use the microwave. Just place it on a plate, cover it with a damp paper towel, and heat for about 1-2 minutes. Both methods help keep the flavor intact.
Freezing Grilled Corn for Later Use
If you want to save your chili lime grilled corn for a longer time, freezing works great. First, let the corn cool completely. Then, cut the kernels off the cob if you prefer. Place the corn in a freezer-safe bag or container. Be sure to remove as much air as possible. You can freeze it for up to six months. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat as needed. This way, you can enjoy your zesty treat later!
FAQs
How long do you grill corn?
You grill corn for about 10-15 minutes. Turn it every few minutes for even cooking. The corn should be tender and have some char marks. This gives it a nice smoky flavor. You want the kernels to pop with each bite.
Can I make chili lime grilled corn in the oven?
Yes, you can make chili lime grilled corn in the oven. Preheat your oven to 400°F. Place the corn on a baking sheet. Brush it with the chili lime marinade. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, turning halfway. This method gives you a similar taste to grilling.
What can I substitute for cotija cheese?
You can substitute feta cheese for cotija cheese. Feta has a similar crumbly texture and salty taste. If you want a dairy-free option, try using nutritional yeast. It adds a cheesy flavor without dairy. You can also use queso fresco as an alternative.
For the full recipe, check out the details above!
Grilling corn is simple and fun. We explored fresh ingredients, spices, and tasty toppings. You learned how to prepare the grill and make a chili lime marinade. With tips on choosing corn and achieving grill marks, you can impress anyone. Try spicy or herb-infused variations for extra flavor. Remember, leftover corn can be stored and reheated easily. Enjoy your cooking adventure, and don’t hesitate to experiment with new twists. Your grilled corn will always be a hit!
