Introduction
Looking for a tasty and easy side dish that will elevate your summer barbecue or dinner table? This corn recipe combines the sweetness of fresh corn with a zesty mayonnaise and sour cream mixture, topped with chili powder, cotija cheese, and fresh cilantro. Perfect for sharing or enjoying on your own, these roasted corn ears are sure to impress!
Ingredients
¼ cup mayonnaise
¼ cup sour cream
½ teaspoon garlic powder
Juice of 1 lime
6 ears corn
1 teaspoon chili powder
½ cup crumbled cotija cheese
¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro leaves
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time
35-40 minutes
Total Time
45-50 minutes
Yield
Serves 6
With this easy recipe, you’ll have a delicious dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the delightful combination of flavors and textures with every bite!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C) to prepare for roasting the corn.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
In a small bowl, combine ¼ cup of mayonnaise, ¼ cup of sour cream, ½ teaspoon of garlic powder, and the juice of 1 lime. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly blended. Set this mixture aside for later use.
Step 3: Roast the Corn
Take 6 ears of corn, and place them directly on the oven rack. Roast the corn for about 35 to 40 minutes, or until the corn is soft.
Step 4: Apply the Mayonnaise Mixture
Once the corn is roasted, carefully peel down the husks. Spread the prepared mayonnaise mixture evenly over the soft corn.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Serve the roasted corn immediately. If desired, garnish with 1 teaspoon of chili powder, ½ cup of crumbled cotija cheese, and ¼ cup of chopped fresh cilantro leaves for added flavor and presentation.
Notes
Note 1:
Ensure that the corn is fresh for the best flavor. Check that the husks are intact before roasting.
Note 2:
Adjust the amount of chili powder according to your heat preference; you can add more or less as desired.
Note 3:
Cotija cheese can be substituted with feta cheese if unavailable, but the flavor may vary slightly.
Note 4:
The cilantro can also be omitted if you prefer not to use it, or you can substitute it with parsley for a different taste.
Cook techniques
Roasting Corn
Roasting corn in the oven brings out its natural sweetness and flavor. By placing the corn directly on the oven rack, you allow the heat to circulate evenly around the ears, which helps to cook them thoroughly and caramelize the sugars.
Making a Creamy Sauce
Combine mayonnaise, sour cream, garlic powder, and lime juice to create a creamy sauce that adds richness and tang to the roasted corn. This mixture can easily be adjusted to suit your taste by modifying the ratios or ingredients.
Garnishing
Adding a sprinkle of chili powder, cotija cheese, and fresh cilantro not only enhances the flavor of the dish but also adds visual appeal. The contrast of the bright cilantro against the creamy sauce and kernels of corn creates an inviting presentation.
FAQ
Can I use frozen corn for this recipe?
While fresh corn is recommended for the best flavor and texture, you can use frozen corn. However, the roasting method would be different; you would need to boil or steam instead.
What can I substitute for cotija cheese?
If cotija cheese is unavailable, you can use feta cheese or queso fresco as a substitute, as they have a similar crumbly texture and salty flavor.
How can I make this dish spicy?
To add spice, you can mix in diced jalapeños or use cayenne pepper in place of chili powder, adjusting according to your heat preference.
Can this dish be prepared in advance?
While the corn is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the creamy sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Roast the corn just before serving for optimal freshness.
What other toppings can I use?
Feel free to experiment with toppings such as diced avocado, lime zest, or even hot sauce to customize the flavor profile of the roasted corn.
Conclusion
This roasted corn dish with a creamy and tangy sauce, enhanced by the flavors of chili powder and cotija cheese, offers a delightful balance of taste and texture. It makes for a perfect side dish or a fun addition to any gathering. The combination of ingredients creates a refreshing and zesty experience that will please your palate and impress your guests.
Mexican Street Corn Salad
Combine roasted corn kernels with diced tomatoes, red onion, avocado, jalapeños, and a squeeze of lime for a refreshing salad.
Corn and Black Bean Tacos
Use the roasted corn mixture as a filling for soft tortillas, adding black beans, avocado, and a drizzle of hot sauce for a delicious taco night.
Cheesy Corn Bake
Mix roasted corn with a creamy cheese sauce, top with breadcrumbs, and bake until bubbly and golden for a comforting dish.
Spicy Corn Fritters
Blend the roasted corn with a batter of flour, eggs, and spices, then pan-fry until crispy for delicious fritters.
Corn Chowder
Incorporate roasted corn into a creamy chowder with potatoes, onions, and herbs for a hearty soup that celebrates corn’s sweet flavor.
