Imagine biting into a perfectly grilled ear of corn, kissed by smoky flames, covered in a creamy, tangy yogurt sauce, and sprinkled with zesty cotija cheese. This isn't just any elotes recipe - this is a game-changing, guilt-free version of the beloved Mexican street food that will transform your summer grilling game. Get ready to experience a mouthwatering explosion of flavors that's both nutritious and incredibly delicious!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 ears of corn, husked
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup cotija cheese, crumbled
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 400-450°F). If using an indoor grill pan, heat it over medium-high heat.
- Husk the corn ears completely, removing all silk and outer layers. Pat the corn dry with a clean kitchen towel to ensure proper grilling.
- Brush the corn lightly with a small amount of olive oil to prevent sticking and promote even charring. This will help create those classic grill marks.
- Place the corn directly on the hot grill grates. Cook for 10-12 minutes, rotating every 2-3 minutes to ensure even charring on all sides. The corn should develop nice golden-brown and slightly blackened spots.
- While the corn is grilling, prepare the topping mixture. In a small bowl, combine Greek yogurt, lime juice, chili powder, and a pinch of salt. Whisk until smooth and well incorporated.
- Once the corn is fully grilled and has a nice char, remove from heat and let cool for 1-2 minutes.
- Using a silicone brush or the back of a spoon, generously coat each ear of corn with the prepared yogurt mixture, ensuring even coverage.
- Sprinkle crumbled cotija cheese over the corn, pressing gently to help the cheese adhere to the yogurt coating.
- For an extra flavor boost, dust the corn with additional chili powder and a final pinch of salt.
- Serve immediately while warm, optionally with lime wedges on the side for squeezing extra citrus flavor.
Tips
- Choose fresh corn: Select ears with bright green husks and plump, tightly packed kernels for the best flavor and texture.
- Pat corn completely dry before grilling to ensure those beautiful char marks develop properly.
- Keep a close eye on the corn while grilling and rotate frequently to prevent burning and achieve even caramelization.
- For extra flavor, try adding a pinch of smoked paprika to the yogurt mixture for a deeper, more complex taste profile.
- If you don't have a grill, you can achieve similar results using a cast-iron skillet or broiling in the oven.
- Serve immediately after preparing to enjoy the corn at its peak temperature and flavor.
- For a spicier version, add a dash of cayenne pepper or use a hot chili powder blend.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 150kcal
Carbohydrates: 20g
Protein: 7g
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 15mg
