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Easy Zesty Grilled Corn Recipe with Cilantro Lime Butter

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A quick and easy grilled corn recipe featuring a zesty cilantro lime butter that adds bright, tangy, and buttery flavors to smoky charred kernels. Perfect for summer gatherings and weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

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  • 4 ears fresh sweet corn, husks removed and cleaned
  • 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice (about 1 lime)
  • 1 teaspoon lime zest
  • 1 clove garlic, minced (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder or smoked paprika
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Cilantro Lime Butter: In a small bowl, combine softened butter, chopped cilantro, fresh lime juice, lime zest, minced garlic, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until evenly incorporated. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Set aside at room temperature.
  2. Prep the Corn: Remove husks and silk from ears of corn. Rinse under cold water to remove any remaining silk strands. Pat dry with a clean towel.
  3. Preheat Grill: Heat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat (around 375°F / 190°C).
  4. Grill the Corn: Place corn directly on grill grates. Turn every 3-4 minutes using tongs to ensure even charring on all sides. Grill for about 15 minutes until golden brown spots appear and a slight smoky aroma is present. Avoid blackening too much.
  5. Butter It Up: Remove corn from grill and while still warm, generously spread cilantro lime butter over each ear. The heat will melt the butter into the kernels.
  6. Serve Immediately: Eat the corn warm and buttery. Optionally, sprinkle extra chili powder, lime zest, or cilantro on top for garnish.

Notes

Make the cilantro lime butter up to 2 days in advance and keep refrigerated; bring to room temperature before use. For those without a grill, broil corn in the oven on high for 7-10 minutes, turning halfway through. Use tongs to turn corn gently to avoid piercing kernels. Experiment with chili powders for different heat levels. For dairy-free, substitute butter with vegan spread or coconut oil. Add diced jalapeños for extra spice or sprinkle cotija cheese for a Mexican street corn twist.

Nutrition

Keywords: grilled corn, cilantro lime butter, summer side dish, barbecue recipe, easy grilled corn, zesty corn, smoky corn, quick corn recipe

Find it online: https://magnetmeal.com/easy-zesty-grilled-corn-recipe-with-cilantro-lime-butter-step-by-step/