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Flavorful Grilled Sweet Corn Recipe with Jalapeño Lime Butter and Cotija Cheese

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A smoky, zesty grilled sweet corn recipe featuring jalapeño lime butter and crumbly Cotija cheese, perfect for summer gatherings and quick BBQ sides.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 ears fresh sweet corn, husked
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 small jalapeño pepper, finely minced (seeds removed for less heat)
  • 1 lime, zested and juiced
  • 2 tablespoons cilantro, finely chopped (optional)
  • 1/3 cup Cotija cheese, crumbled
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Husk the corn completely, removing all silk strands. Rinse under cold water and pat dry (about 5 minutes).
  2. In a medium bowl, combine softened unsalted butter, finely minced jalapeño, lime zest, and 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice. Add smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to taste. Mix until well blended and creamy (about 5 minutes). Taste and adjust heat or tang as desired.
  3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat, around 375-400°F (190-204°C). If using charcoal, ensure coals are glowing and covered with ash (about 10 minutes).
  4. Place corn directly on grill grates. Cook undisturbed for 3-4 minutes until grill marks appear. Turn corn every 3-4 minutes, grilling evenly for a total of 10-12 minutes until kernels are tender with some charred spots.
  5. Remove corn from grill and immediately spread jalapeño lime butter generously over each ear while still hot. Sprinkle crumbled Cotija cheese evenly on top.
  6. Garnish with chopped cilantro if using, add an extra squeeze of lime juice for brightness, and serve immediately.

Notes

Use softened butter at room temperature for easy mixing. Remove jalapeño seeds to reduce heat. Preheat grill fully for best char marks. Add butter and cheese immediately after grilling for best melting and flavor. For dairy-free, use vegan butter and omit cheese or substitute with nutritional yeast. Frozen corn can be used but fresh is preferred. Grill basket and silicone brush can help with handling and spreading butter.

Nutrition

Keywords: grilled corn, sweet corn, jalapeño lime butter, Cotija cheese, summer recipe, BBQ side, spicy corn, Mexican street corn

Find it online: https://ariaappetite.com/flavorful-grilled-sweet-corn-recipe-with-jalape-n-o-lime-butter-and-cotija-cheese/