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Grilled Elote Corn with Chili Lime – Grilled Elote Chili Lime
Grilled Elote Chili Lime transforms ordinary corn into a smoky, tangy street food masterpiece that brings Mexican flavors right to your backyard. This traditional Mexican street corn recipe combines perfectly charred corn with creamy mayonnaise, zesty lime, and bold chili powder for an unforgettable taste experience.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy preparation that takes just 30 minutes from start to finish
- Perfect balance of smoky, creamy, tangy, and spicy flavors in every bite
- Impressive presentation that makes ordinary corn look gourmet and restaurant-quality
- Versatile recipe that works as a side dish or appetizer for any gathering
- Uses simple ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen
Why This Grilled Elote Chili Lime Recipe Works
This recipe succeeds because it balances contrasting flavors perfectly. The smoky char from grilling provides depth, while the creamy mayonnaise base creates richness. Fresh lime juice adds brightness that cuts through the richness, and chili powder brings warmth without overwhelming heat.
The key lies in the timing and technique. Grilling corn at the right temperature creates those coveted char marks while keeping kernels tender. The lime-mayo mixture acts as both flavor enhancer and adhesive for toppings.
Why You’ll Love This Grilled Elote Corn with Chili Lime
This dish delivers restaurant-quality results with minimal effort. The combination of textures creates interest – from the slight crunch of charred kernels to the smooth coating and crumbly cheese topping.
It’s also incredibly versatile. Serve it at barbecues, family dinners, or as a unique appetizer. The visual appeal makes it Instagram-worthy, while the authentic flavors satisfy even the most discerning palates.
What You’ll Need for Perfect Grilled Elote Chili Lime
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity (Approx) | Purpose / Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh corn ears | 4 ears | Main ingredient, provides sweetness and texture |
| Mayonnaise | ⅓ cup | Creates creamy base and helps seasonings stick |
| Fresh lime juice | 1 teaspoon | Adds bright acidity and authentic Mexican flavor |
| Lime zest | ½ teaspoon | Intensifies citrus flavor and adds aromatic oils |
| Chili powder | ½ teaspoon | Provides warmth and authentic street corn taste |
| Cotija cheese | ⅓ cup | Adds salty, crumbly texture and authentic finish |
| Fresh cilantro | 2 tablespoons | Provides fresh herb flavor and color contrast |
| Sea salt | To taste | Enhances all flavors and balances sweetness |
Tools
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Grill or grill pan | Creates char marks and smoky flavor |
| Small mixing bowl | Combines mayo mixture ingredients |
| Pastry brush | Evenly spreads mayo mixture on corn |
| Tongs | Safely handles corn while grilling |
| Microplane grater | Creates fine lime zest |
How to Make Grilled Elote Corn with Chili Lime
| Step | Instructions |
|---|---|
| Step 1: Prepare Corn | Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Remove husks and silk from corn ears completely |
| Step 2: Grill Corn | Grill corn for 10-15 minutes, turning every 3-4 minutes until charred on all sides |
| Step 3: Make Lime Mayo | Mix mayonnaise, lime juice, and lime zest in small bowl until smooth |
| Step 4: Apply Coating | Brush lime mayo mixture evenly over hot grilled corn |
| Step 5: Add Toppings | Sprinkle chili powder, crumbled Cotija cheese, and chopped cilantro over corn |
| Step 6: Season and Serve | Add sea salt to taste and serve immediately with lime wedges |
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Soak corn in cold water for 30 minutes before grilling to prevent excessive charring
- Keep corn moving on the grill to ensure even charring on all sides
- Apply mayo mixture while corn is still hot so it adheres better
- Use fresh lime juice rather than bottled for the brightest flavor
- Crumble Cotija cheese by hand for the best texture and authentic appearance
Serving and Storage Tips for Grilled Elote Chili Lime
Serving Tips
Serve Grilled Elote Chili Lime immediately while corn is still warm. The contrast between hot corn and cool toppings creates the perfect eating experience. Provide extra lime wedges for guests who want additional citrus kick.
Present on individual plates with napkins, as this dish can be wonderfully messy. Consider serving alongside other Mexican-inspired dishes like this Ultimate Chicken Casserole for a complete meal.
For storage, refrigerate leftover corn for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in microwave or oven before serving. The toppings may need refreshing with additional lime juice and cilantro.
Mistakes to Avoid When Making Grilled Elote Chili Lime
Don’t overcook the corn – it should be tender but still have some bite. Avoid applying toppings to cold corn, as they won’t adhere properly. Never skip the lime zest, as it provides essential flavor depth.
Resist using pre-shredded cheese instead of Cotija. The authentic cheese provides the right texture and flavor. Don’t forget to season with salt at the end – it ties all flavors together.
You Must Know
- Fresh corn works best, but frozen corn can be substituted if thawed and patted dry
- Cotija cheese can be replaced with feta or queso fresco if unavailable
- Ancho chili powder provides deeper flavor than regular chili powder
- The dish is best served immediately but can be prepped 2 hours ahead
Tips and Tricks for Grilled Elote Corn with Chili Lime
For extra flavor, add minced garlic to the mayo mixture. Try different chili powders like smoked paprika or chipotle for variety. Insert wooden skewers into corn ends for easier handling and eating.
Make it spicier by adding cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the mayo mixture. For a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for half the mayonnaise. Check out this grilled corn variation for more inspiration.
Suggestions for Grilled Elote Chili Lime Variations
Create an elote bowl by cutting kernels off the cob and serving in bowls with toppings. Add diced jalapeños for extra heat or bacon bits for smokiness. Try different cheese combinations like queso fresco or sharp cheddar.
For a healthier version, use avocado crema instead of mayonnaise. Experiment with different herbs like oregano or chives. This traditional elote recipe offers additional authentic touches.
Pair with other grilled favorites like this Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta for a complete outdoor dining experience.
FAQ for Grilled Elote Corn with Chili Lime
FAQs:
Yes, you can use a grill pan, cast iron skillet, or even broil in the oven. The key is achieving some char marks for authentic flavor and appearance.
It’s best served immediately, but leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. Reheat gently and refresh toppings before serving.
Feta cheese, queso fresco, or even grated Parmesan work well. Each provides a different flavor profile but maintains the salty, crumbly texture.
You can grill the corn and prepare the mayo mixture up to 2 hours ahead. Assemble just before serving for best results.
The heat level is mild to moderate, depending on your chili powder. Adjust the amount to your preference or add cayenne for extra kick.
Conclusion
Grilled Elote Chili Lime brings authentic Mexican street food flavors to your table with minimal effort and maximum impact. This recipe transforms simple corn into a gourmet experience that impresses guests and satisfies cravings.
The combination of smoky grilled corn, creamy lime mayo, and bold seasonings creates a dish that’s both familiar and exciting. Whether served as a side dish or appetizer, this Grilled Elote Chili Lime recipe delivers restaurant-quality results every time.
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📖 Recipe Card
Grilled Elote Chili Lime Recipe
Ingredients
- 4earsGrilled Corn
- ⅓cupmayonnaise*
- 1teaspoonfresh lime juice,plus wedges for serving
- ½teaspoonlime zest
- ½teaspoonchili powder or ancho chile powder
- ⅓cupCotija cheese
- 2tablespoonschopped fresh cilantro
- Sea salt,to taste
Instructions
- Grill the corn according tothis recipe.
- In a small bowl, stir together the mayonnaise and lime juice and zest.
- Spread the mayo mixture over the corn and sprinkle with the chili powder, Cotija, and cilantro. Season to taste with salt and serve with lime wedges for squeezing.
Notes
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 300 calories
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
