Imagine biting into a perfectly roasted Brussels sprout, its outer leaves crisp and slightly charred, bursting with flavors reminiscent of a summer fiesta. Now, add the delightful zing of Mexican street corn—sweet corn slathered in creamy goodness, tangy lime, and zesty spices—and you’ve got yourself a culinary masterpiece: Mexican Street Corn Brussels Sprouts. This vibrant dish is not just a feast for the taste buds; it’s an invitation to dance on your plate.
I still remember the first time I whipped up this dish for my friends during a potluck. The moment they took their first bite, their eyes widened in disbelief. “Wait, how can something so green taste so good?” they exclaimed. It was the perfect conversation starter and became an instant favorite. Whether you’re hosting a lively gathering or simply wanting to elevate your weeknight dinner, these sprouts bring joy and flavor that everyone will adore.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The ease of preparation lets even novice cooks shine in the kitchen
- Bursting with flavor from creamy cheese and spices, each bite is a celebration
- Visually striking with its vibrant colors, it makes any meal pop
- Versatile enough to serve as a side dish or as part of a main course, it fits any occasion perfectly
I once served these at a family barbecue where my uncle declared them “the best greens” he’d ever eaten.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Brussels Sprouts: Look for firm sprouts with bright green color; smaller ones tend to be sweeter and more tender.
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Sweet Corn: Fresh corn off the cob works best but frozen is great in a pinch; just thaw before using.
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Mayonnaise: Use full-fat mayonnaise for creaminess; it gives that classic street corn texture.
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Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice adds zing; avoid bottled juice for better flavor.
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Chili Powder: Opt for smoked chili powder for depth; it brings warmth without overwhelming heat.
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Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan enhances creaminess while adding savory notes; go for freshly grated if possible.
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Cilantro: Fresh cilantro brightens up the dish; feel free to adjust based on personal preference.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepare the Brussels Sprouts: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Trim and halve each Brussels sprout lengthwise, ensuring uniform cooking for that perfect charred exterior.
Toss with Oil and Seasoning: In a large bowl, drizzle the halved sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss until well-coated—this step ensures maximum crispiness when roasted.
Roast Until Golden: Spread the seasoned Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast them for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and fork-tender; flip halfway through for even cooking.
Prepare the Corn Mixture: While the sprouts roast, combine sweet corn, mayonnaise, lime juice, chili powder, and half of the Parmesan cheese in a separate bowl. Mix until everything is evenly coated.
Add Corn Mixture to Sprouts: Once the Brussels sprouts are roasted to perfection, remove them from the oven and immediately fold in the prepared corn mixture while they’re still hot—this helps meld flavors beautifully.
Garnish and Serve!: Finally, sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese and chopped cilantro over your creation. Serve warm as an enticing side or delightful appetizer at your next gathering!
Now you have transformed ordinary Brussels sprouts into an extraordinary feature dish that will knock everyone’s socks off! Enjoy every crispy bite filled with vibrant flavors that scream fiesta!
You Must Know
- Mexican Street Corn Brussels Sprouts combines the best of two worlds, offering a unique twist on traditional flavors
- The crunchiness from Brussels sprouts meets the sweetness of corn, making this dish not just tasty but also visually appealing with its vibrant colors
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by roasting Brussels sprouts until golden. While they cook, prepare your corn topping to maximize flavor and texture.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to experiment with spices! Add some chili powder for heat or sprinkle lime juice for a zesty kick.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven for best results, keeping that crispiness intact.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use fresh ingredients whenever possible for maximum flavor impact
- Avoid overcooking the Brussels sprouts, as they can turn mushy instead of crispy
- A squeeze of lime right before serving elevates the taste and freshness, making each bite pop
Sharing this dish at a recent potluck had everyone asking for seconds—my cousin even joked that it might replace her wedding cake as her favorite food!
FAQ
What is Mexican Street Corn Brussels Sprouts?
It’s a unique blend of roasted Brussels sprouts topped with flavors inspired by Mexican street corn.
Can I make this dish vegan?
Absolutely! Just omit any dairy-based toppings and use plant-based alternatives.
How do I ensure my Brussels sprouts stay crunchy?
Roasting them at high heat and avoiding overcrowding on the baking sheet helps maintain their crispness.
Mexican Street Corn Brussels Sprouts
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Experience a burst of flavor with Mexican Street Corn Brussels Sprouts, where perfectly roasted Brussels sprouts meet the creamy, zesty goodness of Mexican street corn. This vibrant dish features crispiness and sweetness in each bite, making it an irresistible side or appetizer for any gathering. Elevate your meals and impress your guests with this delightful fusion of tastes.
Ingredients
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 1 cup sweet corn, fresh or frozen (thawed)
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lime juice
- 1 tsp smoked chili powder
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (divided)
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a bowl, toss the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper until well-coated.
- Spread the sprouts on a baking sheet in a single layer and roast for 20-25 minutes until golden brown, flipping halfway through.
- While the sprouts roast, mix sweet corn, mayonnaise, lime juice, chili powder, and half of the Parmesan in a separate bowl.
- After roasting, fold the corn mixture into the hot Brussels sprouts.
- Garnish with remaining Parmesan cheese and chopped cilantro before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 205
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
