Three Easy Southwestern Sweet Corn Recipes to Spice Up Your Summer Feasts

Late summer is an exciting time when sweet corn is at its peak, bursting with flavor. Whether you're hosting a backyard barbecue or enhancing your family dinner, these three Southwestern-inspired recipes will bring a taste of the Southwest right to your plate. Try our Mexican Cornbread, Mexican Street Corn, and Corn Salsa!

Mexican Street Corn Recipe

Planting your taste buds on summer's best feature—Mexican Street Corn, or "Elote"—

may just revolutionize how you enjoy corn on the cob. The secret lies in the grilling or oven-roasting process that leaves the corn charred and flavorful. This dish is often found at street vendors across Mexico and is embraced for its bold flavors and textures.

Here’s how to prepare it:

You will need:

• Fresh corn on the cob (4 cobs recommended)

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise

• 1 cup crumbled Cotija cheese (about 100g)

• Lime wedges (from 2 limes)

• 1 teaspoon chili powder

• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

  
  

• Preheat your grill or oven to high heat.

• Grill the corn for about 10-15 minutes, turning frequently until charred. For oven-roasting, cook until golden-brown.

• Brush the cooked corn with mayonnaise, sprinkle with Cotija cheese, and add a pinch of chili powder. Finish with a squeeze of fresh lime juice and garnish with cilantro.

  
  

This corn dish is best served warm and can elevate any summer gathering into a festive event.

A delightful serving of Mexican Street Corn with toppings

Mexican Street Cornbread

If you crave the unique flavors of Mexican Street Corn, consider making Mexican

Street Cornbread. This dish is loaded with sweet roasted corn, aromatic spices, and creamy cheese, creating a flavor explosion that brings joy to every bite.

Gather these ingredients:

• 1 ¾ cups yellow cornmeal

• 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour

• 3 tablespoons sugar

• 2 ½ teaspoons baking powder

• ½ teaspoon baking soda

• 1 teaspoon salt

• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper

• 2 eggs

• 2 cups buttermilk

• 2 cobs of grilled corn, removed from the cob

• 1 can chopped green chiles, drained

• 1 stick of unsalted butter,  melted

• 2 Bottled red peppers, chopped (optional, for color)

  
  

• Optional: 1/2 cup Mexican crema for topping

  Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Butter either a 13x9-inch baking pan or a large cast-iron skillet, and place it in the oven while it preheats.

  
  

  In a large bowl, combine the flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cayenne pepper, and salt. In a medium bowl, beat the eggs, then add buttermilk and pour in the cooled, melted butter. (Hot butter will cook the eggs! Be careful

  
  

  Gently mix the wet and dry ingredients until just combined, and then fold in the corn and chopped green chiles. Carefully remove the hot pan from the oven and pour the batter into the skillet, smoothing it out, then return it to the oven.

  Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

  
  

Serve cornbread warm, topped with Mexican crema for a creamy finish. This cornbread pairs wonderfully with your favorite Southwestern dishes.

Corn Salsa or Pico de Gallo

As temperatures rise, a fresh and zesty salsa becomes essential. This Corn Salsa

recipe is a refreshing choice that highlights summer’s bounty. While you can use frozen corn, grilled corn adds a smoky depth that enhances all the fresh ingredients.

For the salsa, gather:

• 2 cups roasted corn (from about 4 cobs)

• 1 cup diced tomatoes (2-3 medium tomatoes)

• 1/2 cup chopped onion (1 small onion)

• 1 minced jalapeño (adjust according to your spice preference)

• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

• Juice of 2 limes

• Salt and pepper to taste

  
  

• Strip the kernels from the grilled corn cobs.

• In a bowl, combine the corn, diced tomatoes, onion, and jalapeño.

• Mix in chopped cilantro and a generous squeeze of lime juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

• Let the salsa sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

  

  
  

This corn salsa can be served with tortilla chips or as a vibrant topping for tacos and grilled meats.

Pairing Ideas for a Southwestern Feast

These delicious recipes can stand alone, but they also shine together at a Southwestern-themed barbecue. To enhance your dining experience, consider adding:

• Chips and Homemade Salsa: A crunchy appetizer that sets the tone.

• Guacamole: A must-have for any summertime gathering!

• Watermelon Aqua Fresca: A refreshing drink option to cool off.

• Margaritas by the Pitcher: Nothing hits the spot on a hot day like a margarita in a salt-rimmed glass.

• Fajitas with tortillas: Create easy handheld meals bursting with flavor.

• Spanish Rice: A classic side that complements various dishes.

• Fresh Melon: Light and sweet to cleanse the palate.

• Tres Leches Cake: End your meal on a sweet note for a delightful finish.

  
  

Together, these elements create a memorable summer dining experience that brings everyone together around the table.

In summary, these three easy Southwestern recipes for sweet corn are not only delicious but ideal for any summer gathering. Embrace the season's bounty and savor the vibrant, bold flavors that corn has to offer.

So, gather your ingredients, fire up the grill, and make the most of late summer with these delightful dishes. Happy cooking!