Mexican Street Corn Recipe With Tajín Lime Dust

Ingredient Details & Better Choices

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to a truly authentic mexican street corn recipe. Each component plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and zesty flavors.

Core ingredients with role and measurement

• Fresh or frozen corn on the cob (4-6 ears): Provides a sweet base. (I often grab organic ears from the farmer’s market for the best flavor.)
• Mayonnaise or Mexican crema (1/2 cup / 120 ml): Creates the creamy binder. (Use light mayonnaise or Greek yogurt for a lighter twist.)
• Cotija cheese, crumbled (1/4 cup / 30 g): Adds a salty, tangy finish. (Feta cheese is a good stand-in if cotija isn’t available.)
• Tajín Clásico Seasoning (2-3 tbsp / 15-30 g, plus more for dusting): The signature zesty, chili-lime flavor.
• Fresh lime juice (1 tbsp / 15 ml, plus wedges for serving): Brightens and balances all the flavors.
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (2 tbsp / 10 g): A vibrant, herbaceous garnish.

Premium or healthier upgrades

Organic corn on the cob offers superior flavor and sweetness. For a lighter touch, opt for light mayonnaise or plain Greek yogurt. These choices elevate your mexican street corn recipe to a new level of freshness and health.

Substitutions to fit different diet plans

• Dairy-free: Use vegan mayo and nutritional yeast, or a plant-based feta substitute, for cotija.
• Low-carb: Reduce the amount of mayonnaise/crema, focusing on the fresh corn and lime.
• Gluten-free: All listed ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making this an excellent choice.

Notes on seasonal or sustainable sourcing

For the freshest taste, look for local, in-season corn during summer. Choosing ethically sourced cotija, if available, supports sustainable practices.

Step-by-Step Cooking Directions

Crafting this vibrant mexican street corn recipe is straightforward. Follow these steps for perfect results, creating a delicious and family-friendly side.

Step 1: Prep the Corn (5 minutes)

Husk fresh corn, removing all silks, or thaw frozen. This readies the ears, ensuring easy handling and even cooking.

Step 2: Cook the Corn (10-15 minutes)

Grill, roast, or boil corn until tender-crisp with slight char. Achieve a sweet, smoky aroma and bright yellow kernels within 10-15 minutes.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Coating (3 minutes)

In a shallow dish, combine mayonnaise or crema, lime juice, and 1 tbsp Tajín. Stir until you have a smooth, spreadable paste, signaling it’s ready.

Step 4: Assemble & Serve (5 minutes)

Roll warm corn in the mayo mixture, ensuring an even coat. Sprinkle generously with crumbled cotija and more Tajín. Garnish with fresh cilantro; the finished dish will look vibrant.

Optional variations for popular appliances

• Air Fryer: Cook corn at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway. Look for a slightly charred, crispy exterior. I often use this for a quick mexican street corn recipe when short on time.
• Oven Roast: Roast corn at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, turning occasionally. The kernels will appear tender with golden spots.

Mini troubleshooting callouts

If your corn appears too dry, brush it with a little melted butter before applying the creamy mayo mixture. To prevent overcooking for this mexican street corn recipe, cook until kernels are tender but still slightly firm; mushy corn lacks desirable texture.

Serving Ideas & Occasions

This versatile mexican street corn recipe with Tajín lime dust is a fantastic addition to many meals. It’s perfect for adding a vibrant, family-friendly side that’s also great for quick weeknight dinners or larger gatherings.

• Ideal uses: Quick weeknight dinners alongside tacos or grilled chicken; fitness meal prep (cook corn, assemble fresh); family gatherings, potlucks, and summer BBQs.
• Pairing suggestions: Main dishes like grilled steak, fish tacos, or chicken fajitas. Complement with sides like black beans, cilantro lime rice, or fresh salsa.
• Storage and reheating tips: Best served immediately for peak freshness. Store leftover assembled corn in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or briefly on a grill/pan to warm through; corn may lose some crispness but remains flavorful.

Nutrition & Lifestyle Advantages of Mexican Street Corn with Tajín Lime Dust

Enjoy the many advantages of a mexican street corn recipe with Tajín lime dust. This dish brings both flavor and nutritional value to your table, fitting well into healthy eating goals and busy lifestyles.

• Health/lifestyle benefits: Corn provides a good source of fiber, aiding digestion. Fresh ingredients deliver essential vitamins and minerals. This recipe is naturally gluten-free and easily adaptable to dairy-free or vegan diets. It’s a satisfying, flavorful option that can help reduce cravings for less healthy choices.
• Natural keyword hubs: Excellent for healthy weeknight dinners, high-fiber recipes, family-friendly side dishes, gluten-free cooking, and easy summer recipes.
• Adapting to lifestyle goals: Easily customize for calorie intake by adjusting the amount of mayo or crema. This mexican street corn recipe provides a vegetable-rich option for balanced meals and adds exciting flavor without heavy cooking, making it perfect for busy lifestyles.

Time, Cost & Practical Value

This recipe offers significant practical value, being quick to prepare and budget-friendly. It’s an ideal choice for a convenient, healthy side dish.

• Prep vs cook time breakdown: Prep time is approximately 10 minutes. Cook time ranges from 10-15 minutes, depending on your chosen method.
• Cost per serving and budget tips: This is a very budget-friendly side, often costing less than $2 per serving. Buy corn in season for the best prices. Cotija cheese lasts a long time and is used sparingly, ensuring minimal waste.
• Meal prep strategies: You can cook the corn ahead of time and store it. The mayo/Tajín coating can also be mixed in advance. For the best texture, assemble just before serving.

Shopping & Ingredient Sourcing

To make a delicious mexican street corn recipe, sourcing quality ingredients is key. Knowing where to buy and how to pick the best options ensures a superior dish.

• Where to buy ingredients: Look for fresh, seasonal corn at local farmers markets. Supermarkets are reliable for mayonnaise, fresh limes, and cilantro. Specialty Latin American markets or online stores are excellent for Tajín seasoning and authentic Cotija cheese.
• Tips for picking high-quality options: Choose fresh corn with bright green husks and plump, juicy kernels. Select organic corn when possible for enhanced flavor. For Cotija, look for authentic, aged versions for a more distinct salty tang.
• Mentions of meal kits, grocery subscriptions, online organic stores: Consider grocery delivery services or organic online stores for convenience, especially if local options are limited for specific items.

Pro Adjustments & Hacks

Elevate your mexican street corn recipe with these simple adjustments. These test-kitchen tweaks can cater to different palates, from kid-friendly to gourmet preferences.

• Advanced flavor boosts: I often add a pinch of smoked paprika or chipotle powder to the mayo mixture; it deepens the flavor without adding excessive heat, a trick my family loves. Finish with a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce for an extra kick.
• Adjustments for kid-friendly vs gourmet versions: For kids, use less Tajín and emphasize the fresh lime. For a gourmet touch, char the corn more heavily and consider adding a sprinkle of microgreens or edible flowers just before serving.
• Allergy-safe modifications: For a dairy-free option, use vegan mayonnaise and a plant-based cheese alternative like crumbled vegan feta. This recipe is naturally nut-free, making it safe for those with nut allergies.

FAQs

Can this mexican street corn recipe be made ahead?

For best results, cook the corn and mix the sauce ahead of time, then assemble right before serving. The cooked corn can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 2-3 days.

What’s the best way to cook the corn for Mexican street corn?

Grilling or roasting typically gives the best smoky flavor and char, which adds wonderful depth. If those aren’t an option, boiling works too for tender corn, though the flavor profile will be slightly different.

Is Tajín spicy?

Tajín has a mild chili-lime flavor with a distinctive tang, but it’s not overtly spicy. Its balanced taste makes it kid-friendly and appealing to most palates.

Can I make Mexican street corn without cotija cheese?

Yes, you certainly can. Good substitutes include finely grated Parmesan cheese or crumbled feta for a similar salty, tangy profile. For a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast can provide a savory, cheesy flavor.

How long can Mexican street corn last in the fridge/freezer?

This dish is truly best enjoyed fresh. However, leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Freezing is generally not recommended as the corn can become mushy upon thawing.

Is this a healthy side dish?

Yes! With fresh corn and customizable ingredients, this mexican street corn recipe can be a healthy, fiber-rich addition to your meal. Opting for lighter mayonnaise or Greek yogurt can further enhance its nutritional value.

Conclusion

This easy mexican street corn recipe with Tajín lime dust is a truly satisfying, flexible, and delicious side that everyone will love. Its vibrant flavors and simple preparation make it a perfect addition to any meal, enhancing family dinners and healthy eating goals with ease. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do. Save this recipe on Pinterest, share it with friends, and make it a staple in your weekly rotation for a burst of sunshine and flavor!

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