Oh my goodness, grilled corn on the cob with chili lime butter is the epitome of summer! I can almost hear the sizzle on the grill and smell that smoky sweetness wafting through the air. It’s such a simple dish, yet it packs a punch of flavor that makes it a must-have at any summer barbecue. I remember the first time I tried this at a friend’s picnic; everyone was raving about it, and I couldn’t help but sneak back for seconds (and thirds!). The combination of the sweet corn, zesty lime, and a kick of chili just dances on your taste buds. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be making this delightful treat all summer long!
Ingredients List
- 4 ears of corn, husked and cleaned
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice, for that zesty kick
- 1 teaspoon chili powder, adjust to your spice preference
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, to enhance the flavors
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, for a subtle warmth
How to Prepare Grilled Corn on the Cob with Chili Lime Butter
- First things first, you’ll want to preheat your grill to medium heat—about 350°F (175°C) is perfect. This ensures your corn gets that delicious char without getting overly soggy.
- While the grill heats up, husk the corn and make sure to remove all those pesky silk strands. I like to rinse them under cool water just to make sure they’re nice and clean.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, fresh lime juice, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Give it a good stir until everything is well blended. This chili lime butter is what makes the corn so irresistible!
- Once your grill is hot, brush the corn generously with the chili lime butter. Don’t skimp on it! Place the corn directly on the grill grates.
- Grill the corn for about 10 to 15 minutes, turning it every few minutes to get that beautiful char all around. You want it to be slightly tender and a little bit caramelized.
- When the corn is done, take it off the grill and brush it with a bit more chili lime butter for an extra flavor boost. Serve it hot and watch everyone rave about it!
Why You’ll Love Grilled Corn on the Cob with Chili Lime Butter
- Quick and easy to prepare—perfect for busy summer days.
- Vibrant flavors that balance sweetness, tanginess, and a hint of spice.
- A crowd-pleaser that pairs beautifully with any barbecue dish.
- Fresh and delightful, it’s a quintessential summer side.
- Customizable to suit your taste with just a sprinkle of extra chili or lime.
Tips for Success
To make the best grilled corn on the cob, start by selecting the freshest ears you can find; look for bright green husks and plump kernels. If you can, buy organic corn for even better flavor! When grilling, keep a close eye on the corn; turning it frequently ensures even cooking and prevents burning. If you like it spicy, don’t hesitate to add more chili powder or even a dash of cayenne for an extra kick! Oh, and remember, the butter is your friend—liberally slather it on for that ultimate flavor explosion!
Variations
If you’re feeling adventurous, there are so many fun ways to switch up this grilled corn on the cob with chili lime butter! Here are a few of my favorites:
- Mexican Street Corn Style: After grilling, sprinkle the corn with crumbled feta or cotija cheese, chopped cilantro, and a drizzle of mayonnaise for that authentic elote experience.
- Herb-Infused Butter: Mix in fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley into the butter for a refreshing twist.
- Spicy Sriracha: Add a swirl of Sriracha or your favorite hot sauce to the chili lime butter for an extra fiery kick.
- Garlic Parmesan: Swap the chili powder for garlic powder and finish with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese after grilling.
These variations can make each bite a delightful surprise, so feel free to get creative and find your perfect flavor combination!
Nutritional Information
Keep in mind that nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. For a serving size of one ear of corn, here’s a general breakdown:
- Calories: 180
- Fat: 15g
- Protein: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fiber: 2g
This delicious grilled corn is not only a treat for your taste buds but also a great addition to a balanced diet!
FAQ Section
Can I make the chili lime butter ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chili lime butter a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just let it sit at room temperature for a bit before using it to make it easier to spread.
How should I store leftovers?
If you have any grilled corn left, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat it on the grill or in the microwave before serving.
What if I don’t have a grill?
No worries! You can also roast the corn in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, turning occasionally, or use a grill pan on the stovetop for similar results.
Can I use frozen corn?
While fresh corn is best for that sweet flavor and texture, you can use frozen corn; just thaw it first and grill it for a shorter time. You might lose some of that classic grilled taste, but it’ll still be delicious!
How do I adjust the spice level?
If you prefer it milder, simply reduce the chili powder in the butter. You can also omit it entirely and just enjoy the lime flavor, or sprinkle on some mild paprika for color without the heat!
For more information on the health benefits of corn, you can check out this Healthline article.
If you’re interested in exploring more delicious recipes, visit our recipe blog for a variety of options!
To learn about the grilling techniques that can enhance your cooking, check out this Serious Eats guide.
Print
Grilled Corn on the Cob with Chili Lime Butter Delightful 3x
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Grilled corn on the cob with chili lime butter is a tasty and simple summer dish.
Ingredients
- 4 ears of corn
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the grill to medium heat.
- Husk the corn and remove all silk.
- In a bowl, mix the butter, lime juice, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Brush the corn with the chili lime butter.
- Place the corn on the grill and cook for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally.
- Remove from the grill and brush with more chili lime butter before serving.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add fresh cilantro on top.
- Adjust chili powder based on your spice preference.
- Can be served with lime wedges on the side.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ear of corn
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: grilled corn, chili lime butter, summer recipe, side dish
