Mexican Street Corn Brussels

Bright, crispy Brussels sprouts paired with creamy, bold street corn flavors make Mexican Street Corn Brussels an irresistible side dish. This recipe is perfect for gatherings, barbecues, or even a cozy dinner at home. The combination of textures and flavors will impress your guests and elevate any meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavor Explosion: The mix of spices and creamy dressing creates a delightful taste that’s both savory and fresh.
• Easy Preparation: With simple steps and common ingredients, you’ll have this dish ready in no time.
• Versatile Side Dish: Great for any occasion, whether it’s a family dinner or a festive celebration.
• Vegetarian-Friendly: A delicious option for vegetarians that everyone will enjoy.
• Health Benefits: Packed with nutrients from Brussels sprouts and corn, this dish is both tasty and wholesome.

Tools and Preparation

To make Mexican Street Corn Brussels, you’ll need a few essential tools that simplify the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Air fryer or baking sheet
• Medium saucepan
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk or spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Air fryer or baking sheet: Allows you to achieve crispy Brussels sprouts without deep-frying.
• Medium saucepan: Perfect for warming corn and mixing the dressing efficiently.
• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining ingredients thoroughly before serving.

Ingredients

Bright, crispy Brussels sprouts paired with creamy, bold street corn flavors.

For the Brussels Sprouts

• 1 lb brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Corn Mixture

• 1 (15 oz) can corn, rinsed and drained
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1/4 tsp paprika
• 2 tbsp mayonnaise
• 2 tbsp sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
• 1 tbsp fresh lime juice

For Garnish

• 2–3 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro
• 1/4 cup cotija cheese, grated

How to Make Mexican Street Corn Brussels

Step 1: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts

1. Combine the brussels sprouts, olive oil, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
2. If using an air fryer, place them in the basket and air fry at 380°F for 6 minutes. Toss them and air fry for an additional 4-7 minutes until they are crispy.
3. If baking, preheat your oven to 400°F. Arrange the brussels sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake for 18-20 minutes, tossing halfway through.

Step 2: Warm the Corn

1. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, warm the corn. This should take just a few minutes.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, paprika, and a pinch of salt until well combined.

Step 4: Combine Corn with Dressing

1. Add the dressing mixture to the saucepan with the warmed corn.
2. Stir well and allow it to cook for another 2 minutes while mixing frequently.

Step 5: Toss Together

1. In a serving bowl, toss the crispy brussels sprouts with the corn mixture until they are lightly coated.

Step 6: Serve It Up

1. Top your dish with crumbled cotija cheese, chopped cilantro, and serve with lime wedges on the side.
2. Enjoy your delicious Mexican Street Corn Brussels immediately!

How to Serve Mexican Street Corn Brussels

Serving Mexican Street Corn Brussels is a delightful experience that brings vibrant flavors to your table. This dish can be enjoyed in various ways, making it a versatile addition to any meal.

As a Standalone Side Dish

• Perfectly complements grilled meats or fish.
• Adds a refreshing twist to your dinner plate.

In Tacos

• Use as a filling for soft or hard-shell tacos.
• Pair with avocado slices and fresh salsa for an extra flavor boost.

With Lime Wedges

• Serve with lime wedges on the side.
• The acidity enhances the dish’s rich flavors and adds brightness.

As a Salad Topper

• Perfect for topping salads, adding crunch and flavor.
• Pairs well with leafy greens and vinaigrettes.

For Meal Prep

• Store in airtight containers for quick meals throughout the week.
• Reheat easily, maintaining its delicious taste.

How to Perfect Mexican Street Corn Brussels

To ensure your Mexican Street Corn Brussels turn out just right, follow these helpful tips.

• Choose Fresh Brussels Sprouts: Select firm, green sprouts for the best texture and flavor.
• Don’t Overcrowd: When cooking, ensure there’s space between sprouts to achieve maximum crispiness.
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust chili powder and paprika levels based on your heat preference.
• Use Quality Cotija Cheese: Opt for freshly grated cotija for the best flavor experience.
• Add Extra Zest: Incorporate lime zest into the dressing for an added citrus punch.
• Serve Immediately: For the best texture, serve right after tossing with the corn mixture.

Best Side Dishes for Mexican Street Corn Brussels

Pairing sides with Mexican Street Corn Brussels can elevate your meal. Here are some fantastic options to consider:

1. Grilled Chicken: Juicy chicken marinated in lime and spices complements the dish beautifully.
2. Black Bean Salad: A refreshing mix of black beans, corn, bell peppers, and cilantro adds protein and flavor.
3. Quinoa Pilaf: Nutty quinoa mixed with herbs makes a healthy base that balances this robust side.
4. Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice cooked with tomato sauce and spices provides a comforting sidekick.
5. Corn Tortillas: Warm tortillas can be used to scoop up the Brussels sprouts or serve alongside them.
6. Avocado Salsa: Creamy avocado mixed with tomatoes and onions enhances freshness on your plate.
7. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their sweetness contrasts nicely with the savory flavors of the dish.
8. Cilantro Lime Rice: This aromatic rice is a perfect match, highlighting the zesty dressing of the Brussels sprouts.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Mexican Street Corn Brussels can be a delightful experience, but some common mistakes can hinder your dish’s flavor and texture.

• Skipping the trimming – Not trimming the brussels sprouts can lead to uneven cooking. Always trim the ends and halve them for better crispiness.
• Overcooking the corn – Cooking the corn for too long can make it mushy. Warm it just enough to heat through, typically 3-4 minutes.
• Ignoring seasoning – Failing to season adequately means missing out on flavor. Be generous with salt, pepper, and spices like chili powder to enhance taste.
• Using stale ingredients – Old mayonnaise or sour cream can ruin your dish. Always check expiration dates before use for optimal freshness.
• Neglecting presentation – Serving without garnishing can make your dish look unappealing. Top with cotija cheese and cilantro for a fresh finish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep the dressing separate until ready to serve to maintain crispness.

Freezing Mexican Street Corn Brussels

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
• For best results, freeze without dressing; add it after reheating.

Reheating Mexican Street Corn Brussels

• Oven – Preheat the oven to 350°F and place in a baking dish. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave – Microwave in short bursts of 30 seconds, stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop – Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Mexican Street Corn Brussels?

Mexican Street Corn Brussels combines crispy brussels sprouts with flavors inspired by traditional Mexican street corn, such as cotija cheese and lime.

Can I customize my Mexican Street Corn Brussels?

Absolutely! You can adjust the spices or add other toppings like avocado or jalapeños for additional heat and flavor.

How do I make this recipe vegan?

To make vegan Mexican Street Corn Brussels, substitute mayonnaise with vegan mayo and sour cream with a plant-based yogurt.

What should I serve with Mexican Street Corn Brussels?

These brussels sprouts make a great side dish alongside grilled meats, tacos, or any festive meal.

Final Thoughts

This recipe for Mexican Street Corn Brussels offers a unique twist on classic brussels sprouts. The combination of creamy dressing, zesty lime, and crunchy sprouts creates an appealing dish that is not only delicious but also versatile. Feel free to customize it according to your taste preferences by adding more spices or different toppings! Enjoy making this flavorful side dish at your next meal!