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Grilled Corn on the Cob with Chili Lime Butter

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Smoky-sweet grilled corn on the cob slathered in zesty chili lime butter, garnished with fresh cilantro and optional cotija cheese. This easy summer side dish is bursting with flavor and perfect for cookouts, potlucks, or weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 to 6 ears fresh corn on the cob, husked and silk removed
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick), softened
  • Zest from 1 lime
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (or flat-leaf parsley)
  • 1/4 cup grated cotija cheese (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Husk 4 to 6 ears of corn, removing all silk. Rinse under cool water and pat dry. Optional: soak ears in cold water for 10 minutes for extra tender kernels.
  2. Preheat grill to medium-high (about 400°F). Clean grill grates well.
  3. In a small bowl, blend softened butter, lime zest, lime juice, chili powder, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and black pepper until creamy and well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  4. Place corn directly on grill grates. Grill for 10-12 minutes, turning every 2-3 minutes with tongs, until kernels are lightly charred and tender.
  5. Remove corn from grill and immediately brush generously with chili lime butter while hot.
  6. Sprinkle with chopped cilantro and, if desired, grated cotija cheese. Squeeze extra lime juice on top for added zing.
  7. Serve hot. For parties, wrap each ear in foil to keep warm. Let guests butter their own corn for fun!

Notes

For dairy-free, use vegan butter and skip cotija cheese. Rotate corn frequently for even char. Soak corn before grilling for juicier kernels. Make chili lime butter ahead for efficiency. If using frozen corn, thaw completely before grilling. For extra heat, add cayenne pepper to butter. Grill lime halves for squeezing over finished corn.

Nutrition

Keywords: grilled corn, chili lime butter, summer side, barbecue, gluten-free, vegetarian, easy corn recipe, cookout, potluck, Mexican street corn

Find it online: https://bitefuljoy.com/grilled-corn-on-the-cob-recipe-best-chili-lime-butter-side/