Name: Mexican Street Corn Dip
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 6 ears 6 ears of fresh corn on the cob; to taste Chili powder; to taste Garlic powder; to taste Salt; to taste Pepper; 1 1 lime; Olive oil; 1 1 jalapeno; ¼ cup ¼ cup mayonnaise; ¼ cup 1/4 cup cotija cheese; ¼ cup 1/4 cup cilantro; 3 3 green onions, diced

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There’s something truly magical about summer gatherings, and when I think of the perfect dish to bring everyone together, I can’t help but think of Mexican Street Corn Dip. This dip captures the essence of street food culture, where vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients collide to create an unforgettable experience. I remember the first time I tried this dip at a friend’s barbecue. The creamy texture mingled with the smoky, charred taste of grilled corn immediately transported me back to the bustling streets of Mexico. Every bite was a burst of flavor, from the zesty lime to the rich cotija cheese. It was love at first taste, and I knew I had to recreate it at home.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
40 mins

Prep Time:
20 mins

Cook Time:
20 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
150 kcal

Protein:
4 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free

Fat:
8 g

Tools Used:
Frying Pan, Wooden Spoon, Whisk, Cutting Board

Why We Love This Mexican Street Corn Dip

It’s a Crowd-Pleaser

Whenever I serve Mexican Street Corn Dip, it disappears in no time. Whether it’s a picnic, game day, or a casual get-together, everyone seems to gravitate toward it. The combination of creamy and crunchy textures makes it irresistible!

Versatile Flavor Profile

This dip is incredibly versatile. You can customize it based on your preferences, adding more spices or toppings like avocado or extra cheese. The base of corn and mayo provides a fantastic canvas for creativity.

Easy to Prepare

With just a handful of ingredients, making Mexican Street Corn Dip is a breeze. You can whip it up in no time, allowing you to spend more time enjoying with your loved ones. Plus, it’s perfect for those last-minute invites.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a summer barbecue or a cozy movie night, this dip fits right in. It pairs beautifully with tortilla chips or even fresh veggie sticks. Every scoop is packed with flavor, making it a hit among guests of all ages.

Fresh Ingredients

The freshness of the ingredients really shines in this dip. Using fresh corn on the cob gives it that authentic street corn flavor. It’s a great way to celebrate summer produce!

Inclusive for Everyone

Mexican Street Corn Dip can easily be made vegetarian, accommodating different dietary preferences. This means everyone can enjoy it without feeling left out.

Shopping List for Mexican Street Corn Dip

The ingredients for Mexican Street Corn Dip come together to create a delightful blend of flavors and textures. Fresh corn, zesty lime, and creamy mayonnaise are the stars of this dish. Each component plays a crucial role in contributing to the overall experience.

6 ears of fresh corn on the cob: The main ingredient, offering a sweet and crunchy base.
Chili powder: Adds a touch of heat and enhances the flavor profile.
Garlic powder: Infuses the dip with a savory depth.
Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to elevate all the flavors.
1 lime: Provides a zesty brightness that complements the richness.
Olive oil: Used for grilling, helping to achieve that perfect char.
1 jalapeno: Adds a kick and a smoky flavor to the mix.
¼ cup mayonnaise: Forms the creamy base of the dip.
1/4 cup cotija cheese: Adds a rich, tangy flavor and creamy texture.
1/4 cup cilantro: Fresh herbs to brighten up the dip.
3 green onions, diced: Offers a mild onion flavor and a nice crunch.

Step by Step Instructions for Mexican Street Corn Dip

Making Mexican Street Corn Dip is a fun and interactive process. Follow these detailed steps to ensure your dip turns out perfectly every time. Let’s get started!

Begin by husking and washing the corn. Removing the husk and silk will ensure that your corn is clean and ready for grilling. This step is crucial because fresh corn is the heart of your dip.
Next, place individual ears of corn on a sheet of foil. Drizzle them generously with olive oil. Then, sprinkle a pinch each of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and chili powder over the corn. This seasoning will elevate the natural sweetness of the corn.
Squeeze about a teaspoon of lime juice over each ear of corn. The acidity from the lime will balance the flavors beautifully. Give the corn a good rub with the oil and seasonings to ensure even coverage.
Wrap each ear of corn tightly in foil, ensuring it’s completely sealed. This will help to steam the corn while it grills, keeping it tender and juicy.
Now, rub the jalapeno with a little olive oil as well. This will help it char nicely on the grill. Set it aside for now.
Place the foiled corn and jalapeno on a grill preheated to high heat. Rotate the corn every 3 to 4 minutes. Keep an eye on it; the cooking time may vary if the corn is out of season or tougher.
Cook the jalapeno until it is charred and black all over. This adds a wonderful smoky flavor. Once done, remove it from the grill and place it in a small bowl covered with plastic wrap. Let it steam for 3 to 4 minutes.
After steaming, remove the jalapeno from the bowl. Carefully peel off the charred skin—using a paper towel can assist with this. Then, remove the seeds and dice the pepper into small pieces.
When the corn is cooked, take it off the grill and let it cool slightly before unwrapping the foil. The aroma will be heavenly!
To cut the kernels off the corn cob, stand the cob upright on one end. Using a sharp knife, slice downward to remove the kernels. This works best on a sheet pan with raised edges to catch any flying kernels.
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, more lime juice, cilantro, cotija cheese, diced green onions, and the prepared jalapeno. This mixture will be the creamy sauce for your dip.
Finally, stir in the corn kernels, mixing everything until well combined. Top with additional cotija cheese and fresh cilantro for garnish. Serve with crisp tortilla chips for a delightful crunch.

Things Worth Knowing

Use Fresh Corn: Fresh corn tastes significantly better than frozen or canned. Seek out ears that are sweet and juicy.
Grilling Technique: Make sure your grill is properly heated before adding the corn to ensure a good char.
Variations: Feel free to experiment with different spices or cheeses to create your signature dip.
Resting Time: Let the dip sit for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.

Recipe Tips about Mexican Street Corn Dip

Tips can really make a difference when preparing Mexican Street Corn Dip. Here are some useful insights to ensure your dip is a hit!

Storage: Store any leftover dip in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should be consumed within 3 days for best flavor.
Freezing: Although the dip is best fresh, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Pairing: Serve the dip with tortilla chips, fresh vegetable sticks, or even as a topping on tacos for a flavorful twist.
Serving Temperature: This dip can be enjoyed warm or cold, making it versatile for various occasions.
Ingredient Quality: Use high-quality ingredients, especially the cotija cheese and lime, to enhance the flavor profile.

Serving Options for Mexican Street Corn Dip

When it comes to serving Mexican Street Corn Dip, the options are as vibrant as the dip itself. Here are some fantastic serving ideas:

Tortilla Chips: The classic pairing for this dip. The crunch of the chips complements the creamy texture perfectly.
Veggie Sticks: Fresh carrots, celery, and bell peppers provide a healthy alternative for dipping.
As a Taco Topping: Use the dip as a flavorful topping for tacos. It adds a delightful creamy element.
Picnic Gatherings: This dip is ideal for outdoor events. Make it ahead of time and enjoy it at a summer picnic.
Game Day Snacks: Perfect for serving during sports events. It makes a great communal snack that everyone can enjoy.
Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store them in a tightly sealed container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently before serving or enjoy cold.
Seasonal Pairings: Pair this dip with summer salads or grilled meats for a delightful meal.

FAQ

Mexican Street Corn Dip is a creamy and flavorful dip inspired by the popular Mexican street food known as elote. It combines fresh grilled corn, creamy mayonnaise, lime juice, and spices, creating a delicious blend that can be enjoyed with tortilla chips or as a topping for tacos. This dip is perfect for gatherings and adds a vibrant twist to any snack table.

Absolutely! You can prepare the dip a few hours in advance. In fact, letting it sit in the fridge for a while allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Just be sure to cover it well to prevent it from drying out. When ready to serve, give it a gentle stir and add some extra cilantro or cotija cheese on top for freshness.

Tortilla chips are the traditional pairing for Mexican Street Corn Dip, but you can also serve it with fresh vegetable sticks like carrots and celery for a healthier option. It can even be used as a flavorful topping for tacos, nachos, or grilled chicken. The possibilities are endless!

When stored properly in an airtight container, Mexican Street Corn Dip will last for about 3 days in the fridge. However, for the best flavor and texture, it’s recommended to consume it within the first couple of days. If you notice any changes in texture or smell, it’s best to discard it.

Conclusion

Mexican Street Corn Dip is the perfect blend of creamy, tangy, and savory flavors, capturing the essence of summer gatherings and outdoor fun. With its vibrant ingredients and easy preparation, it’s a dish that everyone will love. I encourage you to try making this dip for your next get-together or just for a cozy night in. It’s bound to become a favorite!