Grilled Mexican Corn Ribs
Grilled Mexican Corn Ribs are a smoky, spicy summer treat featuring corn cut into crispy, flavorful wedges coated with bold Mexican-inspired seasonings, creamy lime mayo, fresh cilantro, and crumbly cotija cheese. This easy-to-make recipe delivers a delicious twist on classic grilled corn, perfect for BBQs, weeknight dinners, and outdoor gatherings.
- Author: Lina
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Diet: Gluten Free
Main Ingredients
- 4 large ears of fresh corn (quartered lengthwise)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Mayonnaise Mixture
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
Toppings
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/4 cup crumbled cotija cheese
- Additional lime wedges, for serving
- Prepare the Corn: Cut the fresh ears of corn into quarters lengthwise, creating rib-shaped wedges with the cob for better grilling exposure and easy handling.
- Season the Corn Ribs: Generously brush the corn ribs with olive oil. Season evenly with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper to achieve the perfect smoky and spicy blend.
- Grill the Corn Ribs: Place the corn ribs over medium-high heat on your grill or stovetop grill pan. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side until nicely charred, tender, yet still firm.
- Apply the Mayonnaise Mixture: In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise and fresh lime juice. After grilling, slather this creamy mixture over each corn rib to add flavor and help toppings adhere.
- Add the Finishing Touches: Sprinkle chopped cilantro and crumbled cotija cheese on top of each rib. Finish with an extra squeeze of fresh lime juice to bring all flavors together.
Notes
- Use fresh, large ears of corn for maximum sweetness and juiciness.
- Maintain medium-high grill heat to char without burning or drying out the corn.
- Cut the ribs evenly for uniform cooking and presentation.
- Brush liberally with olive oil and mayonnaise mixture to enhance flavor and keep moisture.
- If grilling indoors, a stovetop grill pan works perfectly as a substitute for an outdoor grill.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (about 1 ear of corn quartered)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Keywords: grilled corn, corn ribs, Mexican corn, barbecue side dish, summer recipe, smoky corn, spicy corn, cotija cheese, cilantro, lime