Grilled Corn on the Cob with Chili Lime Butter

Introduction

Grilled corn on the cob is a summer classic that never fails to impress. The combination of smoky charred corn kernels and a tangy chili lime butter creates a burst of flavors that will leave you craving for more. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or simply looking for a delicious side dish, this recipe is a must-try.

Grilling corn on the cob brings out its natural sweetness and adds a satisfying smokiness to each bite. The addition of chili lime butter elevates the flavors, giving the corn a zesty and slightly spicy kick. The contrast between the buttery richness and the bright citrusy notes is simply irresistible.

Not only is this recipe incredibly delicious, but it’s also a versatile dish that can be enjoyed by vegetarians and meat lovers alike. It pairs well with a variety of main courses and can be easily customized to suit different dietary preferences. So fire up the grill and get ready to savor the flavors of summer!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are several reasons why you’ll fall in love with this grilled corn on the cob with chili lime butter:

– It’s incredibly easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal preparation, you can have a flavorful and impressive side dish ready in no time.

– The combination of grilled corn and chili lime butter creates a delicious contrast of flavors. The sweetness of the corn pairs perfectly with the tangy and slightly spicy butter.

– It’s a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or a casual dinner party, this recipe is sure to impress your guests.

– It’s customizable. You can adjust the level of spiciness by adding more or less chili powder, and you can also experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own unique flavor profile.

– It’s a healthier alternative to traditional buttered corn. The chili lime butter adds a burst of flavor without the need for excessive amounts of butter or oil.

Ingredients

To make this delicious grilled corn on the cob with chili lime butter, you’ll need the following ingredients:

– 4 ears of fresh corn on the cob

– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

– 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice

– 1 teaspoon lime zest

– 1/2 teaspoon chili powder

– 1/4 teaspoon salt

– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make the perfect grilled corn on the cob with chili lime butter:

Step 1: Preparing the Corn

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.

2. Remove the husks and silk from the corn, making sure to remove any leftover silk strands.

3. Rinse the corn under cold water to remove any remaining silk.

4. Pat the corn dry with a clean kitchen towel.

Step 2: Grilling the Corn

1. Place the corn directly on the grill grates.

2. Cook the corn for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the kernels are tender and slightly charred.

3. Remove the corn from the grill and set aside to cool slightly.

Step 3: Making the Chili Lime Butter

1. In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, lime juice, lime zest, chili powder, salt, and black pepper.

2. Mix well until all the ingredients are thoroughly combined.

Step 4: Serving the Grilled Corn

1. Spread the chili lime butter generously over each ear of grilled corn.

2. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Expert Tips for Success

– Soak the corn in cold water for about 30 minutes before grilling to prevent it from drying out.

– For an extra smoky flavor, you can grill the corn with the husks on. Simply peel back the husks, remove the silk, and then fold the husks back over the corn before grilling.

– If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the chili lime butter.

– Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor of the chili lime butter. Fresh cilantro, smoked paprika, or cumin would all be delicious additions.

Variations and Substitutions

– If you don’t have fresh corn on the cob, you can use frozen corn instead. Simply thaw the corn before grilling and adjust the cooking time accordingly.

– If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, you can substitute the butter with a dairy-free margarine or olive oil.

– For a vegan version of this recipe, use a plant-based butter substitute and skip the step of brushing the corn with the chili lime butter.

– If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of chili powder or omit it altogether.

Serving Suggestions

This grilled corn on the cob with chili lime butter is delicious on its own, but it also pairs well with a variety of main dishes. Here are a few serving suggestions:

– Serve it alongside grilled chicken or steak for a complete summer meal.

– Pair it with a refreshing summer salad, such as a watermelon feta salad or a cucumber tomato salad.

– Enjoy it with a side of homemade guacamole and tortilla chips for a Mexican-inspired feast.

FAQs

Q: Can I make the chili lime butter in advance?

A: Yes, you can prepare the chili lime butter in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Simply let it soften at room temperature before using.

Q: Can I grill the corn indoors?

A: Yes, if you don’t have access to an outdoor grill, you can use a stovetop grill pan or even a regular frying pan to grill the corn indoors.

Q: Can I use dried spices instead of fresh lime juice and zest?

A: While fresh lime juice and zest provide the best flavor, you can use dried spices if that’s all you have on hand. Just keep in mind that the flavor may be slightly different.

Final Thoughts

Grilled corn on the cob with chili lime butter is a delicious and versatile dish that captures the essence of summer. The smoky sweetness of the corn combined with the tangy and slightly spicy butter creates a flavor explosion that will leave you craving more. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or simply looking for a tasty side dish, this recipe is sure to impress. So fire up the grill, gather your friends and family, and get ready to enjoy a mouthwatering summer treat!

Remember to share your experience with this recipe in the comments below. We’d love to hear how it turned out for you and any creative variations you tried. Happy grilling!