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Flavorful Grilled Corn Recipe with Easy Zesty Cilantro Lime Butter

grilled corn with cilantro lime butter - featured image

A quick and easy grilled corn recipe featuring a zesty cilantro lime butter that adds a fresh, tangy, and smoky flavor perfect for summer gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 ears fresh corn on the cob, husks removed
  • 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
  • Zest of 1 medium lime
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • Optional: pinch of smoked paprika or chili powder

Instructions

  1. Prepare the cilantro lime butter: In a medium bowl, combine softened butter, chopped cilantro, lime zest, lime juice, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until evenly incorporated. Optionally add smoked paprika or chili powder. Takes about 5 minutes.
  2. Prep the corn: Remove husks and silk from the corn. Pat dry with paper towel. Trim ends if needed. Takes about 5 minutes.
  3. Preheat the grill or grill pan over medium-high heat (about 375°F). Clean and lightly oil grates. Preheat for about 10 minutes.
  4. Grill the corn: Place corn on grill grates. Grill for 10-15 minutes, turning every 3-4 minutes until kernels are golden-brown with slight blackened spots.
  5. Apply the butter: Remove corn from heat and while still hot, spread cilantro lime butter generously over each ear. Butter will melt into the kernels.
  6. Serve immediately: Transfer to serving platter. Optionally garnish with extra chopped cilantro or a squeeze of fresh lime juice. Serve warm.

Notes

Let butter sit at room temperature before mixing for easier spreading. Turn corn regularly every 3-4 minutes for even charring. For dairy-free, substitute butter with plant-based margarine or coconut oil. Can also roast corn in oven at 425°F for 20-25 minutes or cook in skillet with oil.

Nutrition

Keywords: grilled corn, cilantro lime butter, summer side dish, BBQ side, easy grilled corn, zesty butter, backyard recipe