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As summer rolls in, the aroma of grilled food fills the air, and backyard cookouts become a cherished tradition. One of the most beloved staples on the grill is corn, especially when it’s smothered in rich, zesty flavors. Grilled corn is not just a side dish; it’s an experience that brings people together, amplifying the joy of outdoor dining. Among the myriad of ways to prepare this classic summer treat, the Zesty Chili Lime Grilled Corn stands out with its bold flavors and refreshing twist.

Chili Lime Grilled Corn

Elevate your summer cookouts with this delicious Zesty Chili Lime Grilled Corn recipe. The combination of fresh, sweet corn grilled to perfection and coated with a creamy chili lime sauce creates an explosion of flavor. This dish features vibrant lime juice, smoky spices, and a sprinkle of Cotija cheese, bringing a gourmet twist to your outdoor gatherings. Perfect as a side dish or a showstopper on its own, it's a delightful way to savor summer flavors. Enjoy what will quickly become a favorite!
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Ingredients
  

4 ears of fresh corn, husked and silks removed

1/4 cup mayonnaise

2 tablespoons sour cream

2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice

1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)

1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for an extra kick)

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, removing all the silk, and rinsing the ears under cold water. Pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel.

    Preheat the Grill: Set your grill to medium-high heat (approximately 400°F or 200°C). For gas grills, preheat for 10-15 minutes. If using charcoal, let the coals burn until they turn ash-white.

      Prepare the Chili Lime Sauce: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, freshly squeezed lime juice, chili powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper, if desired. Season with salt to taste. Mix thoroughly until the sauce is smooth and well blended, then set aside.

        Grill the Corn: Place the corn directly onto the preheated grill grates. Grill the corn for about 10-15 minutes, turning every 2-3 minutes, until the kernels are tender and light grill marks are visible. Keep an eye to prevent burning.

          Coat the Grilled Corn: Once the corn is grilled to perfection, remove it from the grill. While still hot, generously brush or spread the prepared chili lime sauce over each ear of corn.

            Add Cheese and Garnish: Immediately sprinkle the crumbled cotija cheese over the sauced corn, allowing it to stick well. Finish by adding a sprinkle of fresh chopped cilantro for a bright burst of color and flavor.

              Serve: Serve the grilled corn hot off the grill, accompanied by lime wedges for an extra squeeze of fresh lime juice right before eating.

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

                  - Presentation Tips: For an eye-catching presentation, serve the corn on a rustic wooden platter, garnished with extra lime wedges and cilantro sprigs. Consider wrapping each ear of corn in a parchment paper for an appealing and organized display.