Irresistible Mexican Street Corn and Shrimp Recipe

Intro and Brief Recap

Have you ever tasted the vibrant flavors of Mexican street corn combined with succulent shrimp? This delightful dish, known as Mexican Street Corn and Shrimp, bursts with an array of textures and aromas that transport your taste buds straight to the lively streets of Mexico. Imagine sweet corn grilled to perfection, mingling with juicy shrimp coated in a zesty sauce, topped with fresh cilantro and a sprinkle of cheese. Every bite is a celebration of flavor, offering a delightful crunch and satisfying chew that keeps you coming back for more.

As summer approaches, gatherings with family and friends become more frequent, making this dish an ideal choice for barbecues or outdoor parties. It not only impresses guests but also serves as a comforting reminder of sun-soaked days spent enjoying delicious food. The combination of smoky corn and tender shrimp creates an unforgettable experience that’s both satisfying and refreshing. Get ready to dive into this mouthwatering recipe that promises to elevate any occasion!

Key Ingredients For Mexican Street Corn and Shrimp

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Fresh Corn on the Cob: Choose ripe cobs with bright green husks for the best flavor; grilling enhances their sweetness.
• Shrimp: Fresh or frozen shrimp work well; opt for medium to large shrimp for a satisfying bite.
• Mayonnaise: This creates a creamy base for the sauce; choose full-fat mayo for richer flavor.
• Chili Powder: Adds spice and depth; adjust according to your preference for heat.
• Cotija Cheese: A crumbly Mexican cheese that complements the dish perfectly; substitute feta if unavailable.
• Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice brightens the flavors; use real limes instead of bottled juice for best results.

For the Sauce:

• Garlic Powder: Use fresh garlic if desired, but garlic powder offers convenience without sacrificing flavor.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Instructions For Mexican Street Corn and Shrimp

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

First Step : Preheat Your Grill

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (approximately 400°F or 200°C). This temperature ensures perfect grilling of both the corn and shrimp.

Second Step : Prepare the Corn

Remove husks from the corn on the cob and rinse under cold water. Pat dry with paper towels. Lightly brush each cob with olive oil and season with salt.

Third Step : Grill the Corn

Place the prepared corn directly on the grill grates. Grill for about 10–15 minutes, turning occasionally until kernels are slightly charred and tender.

Fourth Step : Cook the Shrimp

While the corn grills, toss shrimp in a bowl with mayonnaise, chili powder, garlic powder, lime juice, salt, and pepper until evenly coated. Add them to the grill during the last 4–5 minutes of cooking time.

Fifth Step : Combine Ingredients

Once cooked, remove both corn and shrimp from the grill. Cut corn kernels off the cobs into a large mixing bowl. Add grilled shrimp along with any remaining sauce mixture.

Final Step : Serve It Up

Transfer your Mexican Street Corn and Shrimp mixture onto serving plates. Top generously with crumbled Cotija cheese and freshly chopped cilantro for an extra burst of flavor.

Expert Tips

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh corn and high-quality shrimp significantly enhance overall taste.
• Adjust Spice Level: Feel free to add more chili powder or kick it up a notch with jalapeños if you love heat.
• Add Zest: Consider incorporating lime zest along with lime juice for an added citrus punch.

Preparation Steps

To create a delicious Mexican Street Corn and Shrimp dish, follow these steps:

Start by preparing the shrimp. Clean and devein them, then season with salt, pepper, and lime juice for a zesty flavor. Set aside while you prepare the corn.

Next, cook the corn until it’s tender. You can either boil it or grill it for added smokiness. Once cooked, cut the kernels off the cob and place them in a bowl.

In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet and cook until they turn pink. Then stir in the corn kernels, mixing well to combine.

For extra flavor, add mayonnaise, cotija cheese, chili powder, and cilantro to the mixture. Stir everything together thoroughly until heated through. Serve your Mexican Street Corn and Shrimp warm, garnished with additional cheese and lime wedges.

Presentation Ideas

This Mexican Street Corn and Shrimp is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:

• Fresh avocado slices: They add creaminess that complements the flavors perfectly.
• Crispy tortilla chips: These provide a delightful crunch that contrasts with the softness of the shrimp and corn.
• Warm flour tortillas: Use them to wrap up your mix for a handheld treat that’s easy to enjoy.

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftover Mexican Street Corn and Shrimp, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This dish maintains its flavor for up to three days when stored properly.

To reheat, simply warm it on low heat in a skillet or microwave until heated through. Avoid overheating, as this can make the shrimp tough.

For longer storage options, consider freezing your Mexican Street Corn and Shrimp. Place it in a freezer-safe container or bag where it can last up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Variations

Feel free to customize your Mexican Street Corn and Shrimp recipe based on personal preferences or dietary restrictions.

You can substitute regular shrimp with grilled chicken or tofu for those who prefer alternative proteins. For an extra kick of spice, consider adding jalapeños or hot sauce into the mix.

For a vegetarian option without shrimp, try using black beans or chickpeas combined with corn for texture and flavor while still keeping it satisfying.

FAQs

What is Mexican Street Corn and Shrimp?

Mexican Street Corn and Shrimp is a vibrant dish combining sweet corn kernels with succulent shrimp seasoned with traditional spices. The dish often features ingredients like mayonnaise, lime juice, cotija cheese, and chili powder to enhance its rich flavor profile reminiscent of popular street food found throughout Mexico.

How do I make my Mexican Street Corn taste authentic?

To achieve an authentic flavor in your Mexican Street Corn and Shrimp dish, use fresh ingredients whenever possible. Incorporate traditional spices such as chili powder or smoked paprika for depth. Cotija cheese adds a salty note that enhances overall taste while fresh lime juice provides brightness to balance richer flavors.

Can I make Mexican Street Corn without shrimp?

Absolutely! If you’re looking to make Mexican Street Corn without shrimp, simply omit it from your recipe while keeping all other ingredients intact. You can replace shrimp with black beans or grilled vegetables for a hearty vegetarian option full of flavor that everyone will love.

What do I serve with Mexican Street Corn and Shrimp?

Serving suggestions for Mexican Street Corn and Shrimp include fresh avocado slices or crispy tortilla chips for texture contrast. Warm flour tortillas work well too; you can use them to wrap up the mixture for an easy-to-eat treat bursting with flavor!