Summer just wouldn't be summer without the sweet taste of corn on the cob! But let's elevate this classic side dish with a zesty, Southwestern twist. This Longhorn Corn on the Cob recipe is bursting with flavor, incredibly easy to make, and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a vibrant summer barbecue. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this delicious and healthy meal! This recipe is also a great example of homemade cooking at its finest.
Ingredients:
- 4 ears of fresh corn, shucked
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup crumbled cotija cheese (or feta cheese for a variation)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions:
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Prepare the Corn: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat or your oven to 400°F (200°C). If grilling, lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
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Make the Longhorn Sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, cotija cheese, cilantro, lime juice, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed – a little extra lime juice or chili powder can really brighten up the flavor!
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Grill or Bake the Corn: Grill the corn for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until kernels are tender and slightly charred. Alternatively, bake the corn in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through.
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Top and Serve: Once the corn is cooked, generously spread the Longhorn sauce over each ear. Serve immediately and enjoy the delicious flavors! This quick dinner idea is perfect for busy weeknights.
Cooking Tips for the Best Corn on the Cob:
- Choose your corn wisely: Look for corn with tight, green husks and plump kernels. The fresher the corn, the sweeter it will be!
- Don't overcook the corn: Overcooked corn can become mushy. Aim for tender-crisp kernels.
- Get creative with toppings: Feel free to experiment with other toppings like shredded cheddar cheese, diced jalapeños, or a sprinkle of paprika for added deliciousness. These best recipes often come from a little experimentation!
- Make it ahead: The Longhorn sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Variations:
- Spicy Longhorn Corn: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce to the Longhorn sauce for an extra kick.
- Vegetarian Longhorn Corn: This recipe is already vegetarian-friendly, but you can further enhance it by adding other vegetables like roasted bell peppers or corn kernels.
- Vegan Longhorn Corn: Replace the mayonnaise with a vegan alternative and the cotija cheese with nutritional yeast for a delicious vegan option.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250
- Fat: 15g
- Protein: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 3g
This Longhorn Corn on the Cob recipe is a simple yet flavorful side dish that's sure to become a family favorite. It’s a healthy meal option packed with deliciousness, making it perfect for those looking for easy recipes or quick dinner ideas. Enjoy!