Happy almost 4th of July! It’s the weekend where we all try to fit in as many barbecues as humanly possible in three days. If you’re still looking for an easy, festive and light recipe for the holiday, look no further than this spicy grilled corn with healthy lime crema!
Everyone loves a good mexican street corn, or elote, where the corn is smothered in a rich mayonnaise-based crema. But for all the hype, it certainly isn’t the healthiest corn recipe. So I’ve lightened it up with a healthier crema made of greek yogurt! It still has all the flavor but with a lot less fat.
Before we get to the crema though, let’s talk about how easy the corn is. Start off by rubbing some butter all over the corn, which helps keep the corn from drying out on the grill while also giving it some richness. Season it with salt and pepper and then add the spices. Paprika adds extra smokiness and grilled flavor, and the chile powder gives the corn a kick.
Then just place the corn directly on your barbecue or grill pan. If you don’t have an outdoor barbecue, a double burner grill pan like this is a great substitute! Putting the corn directly on the grill chars the corn perfectly and gives it so much flavor. Turn the corn a little bit every couple of minutes until every side is charred.
Now for the crema! This is just a simple mixture of greek yogurt, lime zest and lime juice that helps to cool off the spiciness of the corn. Drizzle it over the grilled corn and then sprinkle with cilantro and cheese. This corn is seriously a flavor bomb, but without any of the guilt.
This is a perfect side dish for any barbecue main, like burgers, grilled shrimp tacos, pulled pork, or these grilled veggies. If you’re transporting it to a friend’s cookout, you can store the grilled corn and crema separately and then drizzle it on once you’re there – it’s a lot less messy!
Now you’re ready for all the many barbecues this weekend! Happy 4th everyone!
Wine Pairings for Spicy Grilled Corn with Healthy Lime Crema
- Riesling: A dry riesling still has some sweetness to it, so it will pair well with the sweetness of the corn, while playing off the spices and lime flavor.
- Chardonnay: This is a go-to pairing for corn as the buttery wine goes great with the rich, buttery corn. Pick a chardonnay that is slightly oaked so you get that buttery flavor.
Spicy Grilled Corn with Healthy Lime Crema
- Total Time: 13 minutes
- Yield: 4 people 1x
Description
Grilled corn smothered in spices and a healthy version of lime crema – perfect for any summer barbecue.
Ingredients
- 4 fresh corn, shucked
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons paprika
- 1 tablespoon chile powder
- Salt and pepper
- ½ cup low fat greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 1 teaspoon lime zest
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
- 3 tablespoons cotija, queso fresco or feta cheese, crumbled
Instructions
- Preheat the grill or grill pan over medium heat.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the greek yogurt, lime juice, and lime zest until combined. Season with salt and pepper. Set aside.
- Rub the butter evenly over all the corn, then season it on all sides with salt and pepper. Mix together the paprika and chile powder in a small bowl and sprinkle on the corn evenly on all sides.
- Grill the corn, turning slightly every minute or so, until all sides are charred, about 8 minutes.
- Place the corn on a large platter. With a large spoon or with a ziplock bag with the tip snipped off, drizzle the lime crema over all the corn. Sprinkle the cilantro and cheese over the top and serve.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
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