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For this recipe, you need four ears of fresh corn. Choose corn that feels firm. The husk should be bright green and tightly wrapped. Fresh corn has a sweet taste that shines when grilled. The magic happens with the spices. You will need: - 3 tablespoons butter, melted - 1 teaspoon chili powder - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1 teaspoon ground cumin - Juice of 2 limes - Salt to taste These spices add bold flavors to the corn. The butter helps the spices stick and brings richness. Lime juice adds a fresh zing that perfectly balances the spices. For an extra touch, you can add garnishes. I recommend: - Crumbled cotija cheese (optional, for garnish) - Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish) Cotija cheese gives a savory bite. Chopped cilantro adds brightness and color. Use these garnishes to enhance your dish’s look and taste. You can find the full recipe for more details. First, get your grill ready. Preheat it to medium-high heat. This step helps the corn cook evenly. You want a nice sear on those kernels. Make sure the grates are clean. This way, your corn won’t stick. Give it a quick wipe if needed. Now, let’s make the chili lime butter. In a small bowl, combine these ingredients: - 3 tablespoons melted butter - 1 teaspoon chili powder - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1 teaspoon ground cumin - Juice of 2 limes - Salt to taste Mix them well. This butter packs a punch! It adds flavor and moisture to the corn. Set this bowl aside. You will use it soon. Next, prepare the corn. Husk the ears and remove the silk. Pat them dry with a paper towel. This helps the butter stick better. Brush each ear with the chili lime butter. Make sure to coat all sides. Now, place the corn on the grill. Close the lid and grill for about 10-12 minutes. Rotate the corn every few minutes. You want those kernels to be charred and tender. When they are done, take them off the grill. Let them cool for a bit. If you like, sprinkle some salt on top. You can also add crumbled cotija cheese. Garnish with fresh cilantro for a pop of color. For the full recipe, check out the details above. Enjoy your tasty chili lime grilled corn! To make the best chili lime grilled corn, start with fresh corn. Look for ears with bright green husks. The kernels should be plump and firm. Test them by pressing lightly. If they feel full, they are good. Sweet corn works best for this recipe. It gives a nice, natural sweetness to balance the chili flavor. You can find fresh corn at farmers' markets or grocery stores during the summer. Even cooking is key for great grilled corn. To achieve this, rotate the corn often on the grill. Every few minutes, turn each ear to get a nice char. This helps all sides cook evenly. If some spots get too dark, move the corn to a cooler spot on the grill. You can also soak the corn in water for 30 minutes before grilling. This helps keep it moist and prevents burning. If you don't have a grill, you can still enjoy this dish. Try using a stovetop grill pan. It works well and gives nice grill marks. Preheat the pan and follow the same steps as grilling. You can also roast the corn in the oven. Wrap the corn in foil and bake at 400°F for 20-25 minutes. Just remember to coat it with that tasty chili lime butter mix first. For a fun twist, you can even boil the corn and then brush it with the chili lime sauce. {{image_2}} You can change the spice mix to suit your taste. Try adding smoked paprika for a smoky flavor. If you love heat, mix in cayenne pepper. You can also add oregano for a nice herbal note. Each spice adds its own twist, making your corn unique. Instead of cotija cheese, use feta or Parmesan. Both give a salty bite. Try adding diced avocado for creaminess. A sprinkle of lime zest adds brightness and color. Fresh scallions or jalapeños can also bring an extra kick. Mix and match for fun flavors! Chili lime grilled corn pairs well with many dishes. Serve it alongside grilled chicken or steak for a hearty meal. It also complements fresh salads or tacos. For a light snack, enjoy it with a cool dip. The corn’s bold flavor makes it a crowd-pleaser at BBQs or picnics. Check out the Full Recipe for all the details! If you have leftover grilled corn, store it in an airtight container. This keeps it fresh. You can also wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. Make sure it is cool before you store it. To reheat grilled corn, use the microwave or grill. If using a microwave, place the corn on a plate. Heat it for about 1-2 minutes. Check if it’s hot enough. If you prefer the grill, heat it on medium for about five minutes. Turn it to heat evenly. You can freeze grilled corn for later use. First, let it cool completely. Then, wrap each ear tightly in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped corn in a freezer bag. It will last for up to three months. When you want to use it, thaw the corn in the refrigerator overnight. Grilling or microwaving can bring it back to life. For the full recipe, check out the details above. Yes, you can use frozen corn. However, fresh corn gives the best flavor and texture. If you use frozen corn, thaw it first. Drain any excess water. Grill the corn on a grill pan for even cooking. This method works well, but the taste may differ slightly. You can add more chili powder to the butter mix. A pinch of cayenne pepper will boost the heat too. You could also try adding diced jalapeños to the corn before grilling. This will give it a fresh and spicy kick. Adjust the spice level to fit your taste. Chili lime grilled corn goes great with many dishes. It pairs well with grilled chicken or fish. Tacos and burritos are also great options. You can serve it alongside a fresh salad for a light meal. This corn adds a zesty touch to any summer barbecue. For more ideas, check the Full Recipe. Grilling corn with chili lime butter creates a tasty dish anyone can enjoy. We covered fresh corn, key spices, and optional garnishes. I shared clear steps for prepping, grilling, and making chili lime butter. Remember, choose the best corn for the best flavor. Use the tips for even cooking and explore different spice mixes. Don’t forget about storage and reheating options. Now, you’re ready to make the best grilled corn! Enjoy the savory flavors at your next meal.

Chili Lime Grilled Corn

Elevate your summer barbecue with this irresistible Chili Lime Grilled Corn recipe! Bursting with flavor from chili powder, garlic, and lime juice, this dish brings a delightful twist to a classic favorite. Learn how to grill fresh corn to perfection in just 25 minutes, and add optional toppings like cotija cheese and cilantro for an extra zing.
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Ingredients
  

4 ears of fresh corn, husked

3 tablespoons butter, melted

1 teaspoon chili powder

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon ground cumin

Juice of 2 limes

Salt to taste

Crumbled cotija cheese (optional, for garnish)

Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.

    In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, chili powder, garlic powder, ground cumin, and lime juice to create a flavor-packed sauce.

      Husk the corn and remove any silk threads. Pat the corn dry with a paper towel.

        Brush each ear of corn generously with the chili lime butter mixture, making sure to coat all sides.

          Place the corn directly on the grill and close the lid. Grill for about 10-12 minutes, rotating every few minutes until the kernels are slightly charred and tender.

            Once cooked, remove the corn from the grill and let it cool slightly.

              If desired, sprinkle with salt and crumbled cotija cheese for an added zing.

                Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro before serving.

                  Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes | Servings: 4