There’s just something magical about making a Mexican street corn recipe—or as we call it, elote! It’s a vibrant dish that brings the flavors of the streets of Mexico right into your backyard. I remember the first time I tried it at a local fair; the sweet, smoky aroma of grilled corn wafting through the air was simply irresistible. It’s such a celebration of summer! The combination of creamy sauce, zesty lime, and the salty cotija cheese creates a flavor explosion that dances on your tongue. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to showcase fresh corn at its finest. Trust me, once you make this at home, you’ll be hooked and craving it all season long. So grab those fresh ears of corn, and let’s get grilling! You’ll love every bite!
Ingredients List
- 4 ears of fresh corn, husked
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup crumbled cotija cheese
- 1 tablespoon lime juice (freshly squeezed for the best flavor)
- 1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust according to your spice preference)
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
How to Prepare Instructions
Preparing the Corn
First things first, let’s get that corn ready! Start by husking the 4 ears of fresh corn, removing all those green leaves and silky strands. Give them a good rinse under cold water to wash away any dirt. Pat them dry with a towel. This is the key step! Fresh, clean corn is what you want to showcase in this dish.
Grilling the Corn
Now, let’s fire up the grill! Preheat it to medium-high heat—this is crucial for that perfect char. Once it’s hot, place the corn directly on the grill grates. Grill the corn for about 10-15 minutes, turning it every few minutes to get an even char all around. You’ll know it’s ready when you see those lovely charred spots all over. The smell will be absolutely divine—trust me! Once charred, remove the corn and let it cool for a few minutes before handling.
Making the Creamy Sauce
While the corn is cooling, let’s whip up that creamy sauce! In a medium bowl, combine 1/2 cup of mayonnaise, 1/2 cup of sour cream, 1 tablespoon of lime juice, 1 teaspoon of chili powder, and a pinch of salt. Give it a good stir until everything is well blended. This sauce is where the magic happens, so make sure it’s creamy and zesty—just like you want it!
Assembling the Dish
Alright, now it’s time to bring it all together! Take each ear of corn and carefully spread the creamy sauce all over it. Don’t be shy—get it nice and coated! Then, sprinkle 1 cup of crumbled cotija cheese generously on top. For a final touch, garnish with fresh cilantro. Oh, and don’t forget—this dish is best served immediately! The warmth of the corn with the cool, creamy sauce is simply irresistible. Enjoy every single bite!
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick look at the estimated nutritional values for this delicious Mexican street corn recipe, based on a serving size of 1 ear of corn. Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients used:
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
- Sodium: 350mg
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 3g
- Protein: 6g
This dish is not only a treat for your taste buds but also packs a good amount of nutrients! Whether you’re serving it as a side dish or enjoying it on its own, it’s a flavorful choice that brings a little fiesta to your table.
Tips for Success
To make the best Mexican street corn recipe, start with the freshest corn you can find—sweet, in-season corn is the star of the show! Look for ears with bright green husks and plump kernels. If you can, buy from a local farmer’s market for that unbeatable flavor. Now, when it comes to spice, don’t be afraid to tweak the chili powder to match your taste buds; a little extra kick can really elevate the dish! And remember, serving this dish immediately is key. The contrast of the hot corn with the cool, creamy sauce is what makes it so special. If you have leftovers (which is rare!), you can always enjoy it cold or reheated, but nothing beats that fresh-off-the-grill experience!
Variations
If you’re feeling adventurous, there are so many fun ways to switch up this Mexican street corn recipe! For a different cheese twist, try using feta instead of cotija for a tangy flavor. You can also experiment with spices—add a pinch of smoked paprika for a smoky depth or some cayenne pepper for an extra kick! If you’re a fan of herbs, a sprinkle of fresh mint or dill can give it a refreshing twist. And for those who love a bit of crunch, throw on some crushed tortilla chips or chopped jalapeños for a delightful texture contrast. The possibilities are endless!
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving this delicious Mexican street corn recipe, the options are practically endless! It makes a fantastic side dish for summer barbecues or gatherings, pairing beautifully with grilled meats like juicy carne asada or tender chicken fajitas. You can also serve it alongside fish tacos for a delightful coastal vibe. If you want to keep things light, a refreshing avocado salad or a zesty cucumber salsa complements the corn perfectly.
As for beverages, I highly recommend pairing this dish with a cool, tangy margarita or a crisp Mexican lager. They really enhance the vibrant flavors of the corn and add to that festive atmosphere. If you’re in the mood for something non-alcoholic, a fresh agua fresca or even a coconut water can provide a refreshing balance. Trust me, combining these flavors will elevate your meal to a whole new level of deliciousness! Enjoy your feast!
FAQ Section
Can I make this Mexican street corn recipe ahead of time?
While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the creamy sauce in advance and store it in the fridge. Just grill the corn right before serving for that perfect char and warmth!
What can I substitute for cotija cheese?
If you can’t find cotija cheese, don’t worry! Feta cheese works great as a substitute, giving you that salty, tangy flavor. You could also use queso fresco if you want a milder taste.
How can I adjust the spice level?
If you prefer a milder flavor, simply reduce the amount of chili powder in the creamy sauce. You can also skip the chili powder altogether and sprinkle some paprika instead for a hint of smokiness without the heat.
How should I store leftovers?
If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare!), store the corn in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The flavors will still be delicious, but the corn won’t have the same fresh-off-the-grill appeal.
Can I use frozen corn for this recipe?
Fresh corn is ideal for this Mexican street corn recipe, but if you can’t find any, you can use frozen corn. Just grill it until heated through and slightly charred. It won’t have quite the same texture, but it’ll still be tasty!
For more delicious recipes, check out this Mexican street corn recipe for a delightful twist!
Additionally, if you’re interested in learning more about the health benefits of corn, visit Healthline for detailed information.
For tips on grilling corn perfectly, you can refer to Food Network.
Print
Mexican Street Corn Recipe: 4 Zesty Tips to Savor Summer
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delicious Mexican street corn recipe featuring grilled corn slathered in a creamy sauce.
Ingredients
- 4 ears of corn
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup cotija cheese, crumbled
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- Grill the corn for 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally until charred.
- In a bowl, mix mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, and salt.
- Remove corn from the grill and let it cool slightly.
- Spread the creamy mixture over the corn.
- Sprinkle cotija cheese on top.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro.
- Serve immediately.
Notes
- Use fresh corn for the best flavor.
- Adjust chili powder to your heat preference.
- Can substitute cotija cheese with feta cheese.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ear of corn
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Keywords: mexican street corn recipe, elote, grilled corn
