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As the sun shines brighter and the days grow longer, summer grilling becomes a cherished ritual that many look forward to. The enticing aroma of food sizzling on the grill, combined with the laughter of family and friends, creates an atmosphere that is hard to replicate. One of the standout stars of these summer barbecues is undeniably grilled corn, a simple yet delightful treat that captures the essence of the season. This Zesty Chili Lime Grilled Corn recipe takes this classic dish to new heights, merging vibrant flavors with the comforting taste of summer.

Chili Lime Grilled Corn

Get ready for summer grilling with this Zesty Chili Lime Grilled Corn recipe that elevates a classic dish to new heights! Enjoy the juicy sweetness of grilled corn enhanced by a creamy chili lime sauce, finished off with crumbled Cotija cheese and fresh cilantro. Perfect as a side dish or star attraction at barbecues, picnics, and family dinners, this easy-to-follow recipe will impress your guests and celebrate the joy of outdoor dining. Dive into the summer flavors today!
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Ingredients
  

4 ears of fresh corn, husked and cleaned

1/4 cup mayonnaise

2 tablespoons sour cream

2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice

1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust based on your spice preference)

1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)

Salt, to taste

1/4 cup crumbled cotija cheese

2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (for garnish)

Lime wedges (for serving)

Instructions
 

Prep the Corn: Begin by husking the corn and carefully removing all silk strands. Rinse the ears under cold running water and pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel to remove excess moisture.

    Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to a medium-high heat setting, around 400°F (200°C). If you're using a gas grill, allow it to heat for 10-15 minutes. For charcoal grilling, wait until the coals are fully ashed over and glowing.

      Make the Chili Lime Sauce: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, freshly squeezed lime juice, chili powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), and a dash of salt. Whisk the mixture thoroughly until all ingredients are well blended and smooth. Set it aside to allow the flavors to meld.

        Grill the Corn: Carefully place the prepared corn directly onto the grill grates. Grill the corn for about 10-15 minutes, turning every 2-3 minutes to ensure it cooks evenly. You're aiming for tender kernels and beautiful charred grill marks, so keep an eye on it to avoid burning.

          Coat the Corn: Once the corn is grilled to perfection, remove it from the grill. While it's still hot, generously brush or spread the chili lime sauce over each ear of corn, coating it thoroughly to enhance flavor.

            Add Cheese and Garnish: Sprinkle the crumbled cotija cheese liberally over the sauce-coated corn, ensuring it clings well. For a fresh finish, top with chopped cilantro for a vibrant burst of color and flavor.

              Serve: Serve the zesty grilled corn immediately while hot, accompanied by lime wedges on the side for an added splash of tangy freshness.

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

                  - Presentation Tips: Stack the corn on a wooden serving board for a rustic look, or arrange each ear on a plate, garnishing with extra cilantro sprigs for an eye-catching display.