Get ready to elevate your summer barbecues with a burst of flavor that will leave your taste buds dancing! This Grilled Corn Chili Lime Compound Butter is the ultimate side dish that combines the sweet, smoky goodness of perfectly grilled corn with a zesty, buttery twist. Imagine biting into succulent, charred corn slathered with a rich, tangy butter infused with chili and lime—it's a culinary experience you won't want to miss. Whether you're hosting a backyard fiesta or simply craving a delicious treat, this recipe is sure to impress. Read on to discover how to create this mouthwatering dish that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 ears of corn
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 lime, zested and juiced
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Remove butter from refrigerator and allow it to soften at room temperature for approximately 30 minutes.
- Preheat outdoor grill or indoor grill pan to medium-high heat (around 400°F).
- Husk the corn ears completely, removing all silk and outer layers. Pat corn dry with clean kitchen towel.
- Lightly brush corn ears with olive oil to prevent sticking and promote even charring.
- Place corn directly on hot grill grates and cook, rotating every 2-3 minutes, until kernels develop golden brown char marks and are tender, approximately 10-12 minutes total.
- While corn is grilling, prepare compound butter by combining softened butter, lime zest, lime juice, chili powder, salt, and black pepper in a small mixing bowl.
- Mix butter ingredients thoroughly using a fork or small whisk until all spices are evenly distributed.
- Remove grilled corn from heat and transfer to serving platter.
- Immediately spread prepared chili lime compound butter over hot corn, allowing butter to melt and coat kernels completely.
- Garnish with additional lime zest or chopped cilantro if desired, and serve immediately while warm.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Corn: For the best flavor, select fresh, in-season corn with bright green husks and plump kernels. The fresher the corn, the sweeter it will taste!
- Soften the Butter: Make sure to take the butter out of the refrigerator ahead of time to allow it to soften. This will make it easier to mix with the other ingredients and ensure a smooth compound butter.
- Preheat the Grill: Always preheat your grill to medium-high heat before adding the corn. This helps achieve those beautiful char marks and enhances the flavor through caramelization.
- Rotate for Even Cooking: Turn the corn every 2-3 minutes while grilling to ensure all sides get that perfect char. This not only adds flavor but also ensures the corn cooks evenly.
- Customize Your Butter: Feel free to experiment with the compound butter by adding other spices or herbs. A pinch of smoked paprika or fresh cilantro can take the flavor to the next level!
- Serve Immediately: For the best experience, serve the corn right off the grill while it’s still warm. The butter will melt beautifully over the hot corn, creating a deliciously decadent treat.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 130kcal
Carbohydrates: 3g
Protein: 1g
Fat: 13g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 35mg
