Picture this: a sunny afternoon with laughter ringing in the air as friends and family gather for a summer barbecue. The grill is sizzling, and amidst the tantalizing aromas, you whip up a unique dish that captures the spirit of outdoor feasting—Mexican Street Corn Brussels Sprouts. This dish combines the beloved flavors of elote, the Mexican street corn, with the nutritional powerhouse of Brussels sprouts, creating a delightful side that will have everyone talking.
Inspired by the vibrant street food culture of Mexico, this recipe brings a fresh twist to Brussels sprouts while keeping them easy to prepare and bursting with flavor. Perfect for any occasion, be it a casual weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, these Brussels sprouts become a star on your table, offering both deliciousness and nutrition in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you love food that’s packed with flavor and personality, you’ll adore this dish! It merges the earthy, nutty taste of Brussels sprouts with the creamy, tangy toppings often found on Mexican street corn. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in those greens without compromising on taste. You might just find yourself craving it as a main dish!
What Does The Recipe Taste Like
The first bite reveals a delightful crunch, thanks to the roasted Brussels sprouts. They’re charred perfectly, bringing out their natural sweetness. Then, the addition of creamy mayo and tangy lime juice provides a refreshing contrast. Topped with crumbly cotija cheese and a sprinkle of chili powder, this dish is a harmonious explosion of flavors that dances on your palate. You’ll experience a medley of savory, spicy, and creamy elements that make every mouthful a true delight.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is key to achieving the perfect balance of flavors in your Mexican Street Corn Brussels Sprouts. Here’s what you’ll need:
Main Ingredients
- Brussels Sprouts: About 1 pound, trimmed and halved. They provide the base of the dish, bringing in a mild, nutty flavor that pairs well with the other ingredients.
- Olive Oil: 3 tablespoons for roasting. This adds a richness and helps achieve the crispy texture we desire when roasting.
- Mayonnaise: 1/3 cup. This creamy element adds body and a slight tanginess that complements the Brussels sprouts beautifully.
- Lime Juice: 2 tablespoons, freshly squeezed. It offers a zesty brightness that lifts all the flavors and balances the richness of the mayo.
- Cotija Cheese: 1/2 cup crumbled. This salty, crumbly cheese enhances the dish with its creamy texture and flavor reminiscent of feta.
- Chili Powder: 1 teaspoon. It introduces a mild heat and smoky depth, pivotal for achieving that quintessential elote taste.
- Fresh Cilantro: A handful, chopped. This herb adds a fresh, peppery note that rounds out the dish’s flavor profile.
- Salt and Pepper: To taste. Essential seasoning to enhance all the existing flavors.
Optional Additions
If you’re looking to customize this dish to your liking, have fun with these variations:
- For a spicy kick: Consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños into the mix for that extra heat.
- For a smoky flavor: Try incorporating smoked paprika instead of regular chili powder.
Special Garnishes
Garnishing transforms your dish from ordinary to extraordinary. Here are some suggestions:
- Extra Cilantro: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro not only adds to the visual appeal but also introduces a burst of freshness.
- Lime Wedges: Serve with lime wedges on the side for an extra zesty punch.
- Chili Flakes: A dusting of chili flakes elevates the presentation and adds a touch more heat.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Ready to bring this delicious recipe to life? Follow these simple steps:
- Preheat your oven: Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature will help achieve crispy Brussels sprouts.
- Prepare the Brussels sprouts: Rinse and trim the Brussels sprouts, cutting them in half. In a large bowl, toss the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper until they’re well-coated.
- Arrange on a baking sheet: Spread the Brussels sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet. For best results, make sure not to overcrowd the pan; this helps them roast evenly.
- Roast: Place the baking sheet in the oven and roast for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are crispy and golden brown on the edges. Be sure to flip them halfway through cooking for even browning.
- Make the dressing: While the Brussels sprouts are roasting, combine the mayonnaise, lime juice, and chili powder in a small bowl. Mix until smooth and set aside.
- Combine: Once the Brussels sprouts are roasted, remove them from the oven and transfer to a large mixing bowl. Pour the mayo mixture over the hot Brussels sprouts and toss gently until well-coated.
- Add cheese and cilantro: Fold in the crumbled cotija cheese and chopped cilantro, reserving some for garnish.
- Serve: Transfer the mixture to a serving platter, garnish with extra cheese, cilantro, and lime wedges. Enjoy your Mexican Street Corn Brussels Sprouts warm!
Recipe Variations
Feel free to mix things up! For a different twist, you can try adding in ingredients like sweet corn kernels, diced red onion, or even avocado for added creaminess. If you’re vegan, substitute the mayonnaise with cashew cream or a plant-based alternative and use nutritional yeast instead of cotija cheese to keep those flavors intact. You don’t have to settle for one way to enjoy this dish!
Serving and Storage Tips
These Mexican Street Corn Brussels Sprouts are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven while they’re still crispy. However, you can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll keep well for about 3 days, although the sprouts may lose some of their crispness. When reheating, try popping them back in the oven for a few minutes to regain some texture. They can also be served warm or at room temperature, making them perfect for potlucks.
Helpful Tips
Here are some handy tips to keep in mind when making this dish:
- Choosing Brussels sprouts: Opt for firm and bright green Brussels sprouts. Avoid any that appear yellow or wilted.
- Roasting is key: Don’t skip the roasting process as this is what brings out the maximum flavor and crispiness.
- Taste as you go: Adjust the levels of lime, salt, and chili powder according to your preference. This allows you to create a dish perfectly tailored to your taste buds!
Special Equipment
A few kitchen tools will help you breeze through this recipe:
- Baking sheet: A good quality baking sheet ensures even roasting. If you have a non-stick option, it’s a plus for easy cleanup.
- Mixing bowls: Having a couple of good-sized mixing bowls makes the process simpler, especially when tossing and combining ingredients.
- Cooking spatula: You’ll need a sturdy spatula for flipping and mixing without damaging your beautiful Brussels sprouts.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for this recipe?
While fresh Brussels sprouts are preferred for their texture and flavor, you can use frozen Brussels sprouts. However, be sure to thaw and drain them completely before roasting, or you may end up with mushy results.
Can I make this dish vegan?
Yes! Simply replace the mayonnaise with a plant-based mayo and use nutritional yeast or a vegan cheese alternative for a similar flavor without the dairy.
What can I serve with Mexican Street Corn Brussels Sprouts?
These Brussels sprouts make an excellent side dish for grilled meats, tacos, or even burgers. They can stand alone as a delicious vegetarian option or be paired with your favorite grains like quinoa or brown rice.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! All the ingredients in this recipe are naturally gluten-free, making them a great option for anyone with gluten sensitivities.
Conclusion
Mexican Street Corn Brussels Sprouts is not just a recipe; it’s a culinary journey perfect for savoring good times with family and friends. Their unique blend of flavors makes them memorable, and the simple preparation means you can focus on enjoying your meal rather than stressing in the kitchen. We invite you to try this delightful dish and share your adaptations in the comments below. Your feedback inspires others on their culinary adventures! Get ready to create not just a meal, but lasting moments around the table.
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Irresistible MEXICAN STREET CORN BRUSSELS SPROUTS Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Savor the irresistible flavors of MEXICAN STREET CORN BRUSSELS SPROUTS Try this mouthwatering recipe for a unique twist on a classic dish
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings
- Calories: 200 calories
- Sugar: 2 grams
- Fat: 15 grams
- Carbohydrates: 10 grams
- Fiber: 4 grams
- Protein: 5 grams
