Name: Savory Mexican Street Corn and Shrimp Recipe for Summer Bliss
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 4 ears Corn (Use fresh ears for optimal sweetness; canned corn is a quick substitute if needed.); 1 cup Cotija Cheese (A rich, crumbly topping that enhances flavor; feel free to use feta as a substitute.); 1 pound Shrimp (Ensure they are peeled and deveined, and consider marinating for extra flavor.); 1 teaspoon Chili Powder (Adjust the amount based on your spice tolerance; it adds a lovely warm kick to the shrimp.); 1/2 cup Mayonnaise (Blends with lime juice for creaminess; Greek yogurt can be a lighter option.); 2 tablespoons Lime Juice (Freshly squeezed for that zesty brightness; substitution with lemon juice works well too.); 1/4 cup Fresh Cilantro (Enhances the dish with freshness; omit if you're not a fan of its flavor.)

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As summer’s warmth wraps around us like a cozy blanket, there’s nothing quite like the joy of grilling outdoors. Picture yourself at a sun-soaked gathering, laughter mingling with the irresistible aroma of smoky corn and perfectly grilled shrimp. This Savory Mexican Street Corn and Shrimp Recipe captures that essence, bringing the vibrant flavors of a bustling mercado right to your kitchen. Each bite unveils a delightful symphony of sweetness from charred corn, tender shrimp seasoned just right, and a zesty kick of lime. It’s a dish that effortlessly marries comfort and festivity, perfect for impressing friends or treating yourself to a little culinary adventure. Join me in creating this flavorful fiesta that promises to become a star on your table this season!

Why Love This Savory Mexican Street Corn and Shrimp Recipe?

Irresistible Flavors: The sweet, charred corn beautifully complements the smoky grilled shrimp, creating a flavor explosion you’re sure to love.

Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy summer days, you can whip this dish up in just 30 minutes!

Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as a stunning main course or a colorful side dish at your next barbecue.

Crowd-Pleaser: The combination of vibrant ingredients guarantees your guests will be raving about it long after the meal is over!

Perfect for Grill Lovers: If you’re passionate about outdoor cooking, this recipe is an ideal addition to your grilling repertoire. Looking for something equally delicious? Check out my Savory Beef Broccoli for another mouthwatering option!

Savory Mexican Street Corn and Shrimp Ingredients

For the Corn
• Corn – Use fresh ears for optimal sweetness; canned corn is a quick substitute if needed.
• Cotija Cheese – A rich, crumbly topping that enhances flavor; feel free to use feta as a substitute.

For the Shrimp
• Shrimp – The star ingredient; ensure they are peeled and deveined, and consider marinating for extra flavor.
• Chili Powder – Adjust the amount based on your spice tolerance; it adds a lovely warm kick to the shrimp.

For the Creamy Sauce
• Mayonnaise – Blends with lime juice for creaminess; Greek yogurt can be a lighter option.
• Lime Juice – Freshly squeezed for that zesty brightness; substitution with lemon juice works well too.

For Garnishing
• Fresh Cilantro – Enhances the dish with freshness; omit if you’re not a fan of its flavor.

(Note: This Savory Mexican Street Corn and Shrimp Recipe is ideal for summer barbecues!)

How to Make Savory Mexican Street Corn and Shrimp

Preheat the Grill: Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. While it’s heating up, prepare the corn by peeling back the husks and removing the silk for perfect grilling.
Grill the Corn: Place the corn directly on the grill grates and cook for 10-15 minutes. Turn occasionally until the corn is charred and tender, then let it cool before cutting the kernels off the cob.
Cook the Shrimp: In a skillet, heat a splash of oil over medium heat. Add the shrimp, season them with chili powder, salt, and pepper, and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they turn pink and opaque.
Make the Creamy Sauce: In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise with freshly squeezed lime juice. Taste and adjust, adding more chili powder if you prefer a little extra kick.
Combine Ingredients: In a large serving bowl, gently toss together the grilled corn and sautéed shrimp. Drizzle the creamy sauce over the top and stir until everything is well coated.
Garnish and Serve: Finally, sprinkle cotija cheese over the dish and garnish with fresh cilantro before serving. Enjoy this delightful creation!

Optional: Consider adding a squeeze of lime on top for an extra burst of freshness.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

How to Store and Freeze Savory Mexican Street Corn and Shrimp

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keeping it well-sealed helps maintain freshness and flavor.

Freezer: If you want to save it for later, freeze the corn and shrimp mixture in freezer-safe bags for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: To retain moisture, reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water. This will help revive the flavors of this Savory Mexican Street Corn and Shrimp recipe.

Avoiding Texture Loss: Avoid microwaving, as it can make the shrimp rubbery. Aim for consistent heating by stirring and monitoring closely.

Make Ahead Options

These Savory Mexican Street Corn and Shrimp preparations are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can grill the corn and cut off the kernels up to 3 days in advance; store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Additionally, marinate the shrimp in lime juice, garlic, and chili powder up to 24 hours ahead for enhanced flavor. On the day you plan to serve, simply sauté the marinated shrimp and mix all the ingredients together, drizzling the creamy sauce over before garnishing with cotija cheese and cilantro. This way, you’ll have a delicious, vibrant dish ready in no time, making weeknight dinners feel like a festive celebration!

Savory Mexican Street Corn and Shrimp Variations

Unlock your culinary creativity and make this dish truly your own with these delicious tweaks!

Dairy-Free: Replace mayonnaise with avocado or cashew cream for a luscious, dairy-free sauce.
Vegetarian Delight: Swap shrimp for meaty mushrooms like portobello or a mix of grilled veggies for a hearty plant-based option.
Extra Heat: Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to amp up the spice level. A little heat can elevate the flavors beautifully!
Sweet and Savory: Incorporate grilled peaches or mango for a sweet twist. Their juicy freshness complements the savory elements perfectly.
Smoky Flavor: Try adding smoked paprika to the shrimp seasoning for a deeper, smoky taste. This adds a wonderful complexity to each bite.
Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs such as parsley or basil to give a fresh twist. Each herb brings its own unique flavor profile that enhances this dish.
Citrus Kick: Add a splash of orange juice along with lime for a zesty, citrusy explosion. This brightens the overall flavor and adds a refreshing depth.
Protein Boost: Mix in canned black beans or chickpeas for extra protein and fiber, making it even more filling and nutritious. They also add a lovely texture!

What to Serve with Savory Mexican Street Corn and Shrimp?

Elevate your summer gatherings with delicious pairings that enhance the vibrant flavors of this delightful dish.

Cilantro Lime Rice: A fluffy, zesty side that mirrors the dish’s fresh lime flavor, creating a harmonious balance on your plate.
Grilled Veggies: Colorful bell peppers and zucchini tossed with olive oil add a smoky sweetness, perfectly complementing the charred corn and shrimp.
Avocado Salad: Creamy avocado with juicy tomatoes and a light lime dressing offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the creamy sauce.
Spicy Black Bean Tacos: The hearty beans wrapped in soft tortillas add a satisfying texture and a kick of spice, making them a delightful contrast on the table.
Tortilla Chips with Salsa: Crisp chips served with fresh salsa bring a crispy, crunchy element, inviting guests to snack while enjoying the main dish.
Margaritas: A classic pairing that adds a festive flair; the citrusy flavors elevate the meal’s freshness and enhance the summer vibe.
Mexican Flan: For dessert, this smooth, caramel-flavored custard provides a sweet and creamy finish, balancing the savory elements of your meal.
Fruit Agua Fresca: A refreshing drink made with seasonal fruits offers a sweet respite to the flavors of the savory corn and shrimp, making it perfect for a warm day.

Expert Tips for Savory Mexican Street Corn and Shrimp

Marinate for Flavor: Marinate shrimp in lime juice, garlic, and chili powder for at least 30 minutes before grilling to enhance their flavor.
Perfectly Cooked Shrimp: Cook shrimp only until they are pink and opaque; overcooking will result in a rubbery texture.
Grill Like a Pro: Ensure your grill is well-preheated for that beautiful char on the corn; too cool and it won’t cook evenly.
Sauce Adjustments: Adjust the creamy sauce to your taste; don’t hesitate to add more lime juice or chili powder for your perfect balance.
Prep Ahead: For a quicker assembly, grill the corn and sauté shrimp ahead of time; combine everything just before serving to keep freshness intact.
Creative Variations: Experiment with additions like diced jalapeños or black beans for an extra flavor boost in your Savory Mexican Street Corn and Shrimp Recipe.

Savory Mexican Street Corn and Shrimp Recipe FAQs

How do I select ripe corn for this recipe?
Absolutely! When choosing corn, look for ears with bright green husks that are tightly wrapped, and feel for plump kernels just beneath the silk. If the kernels are milky when punctured, they’re perfect for grilling!

What are the best storage methods for leftovers?
Very! Store any leftovers in an airtight container and keep them in the fridge for up to 3 days. This helps maintain the flavors and texture. When reheating, I recommend doing so on the stovetop with a splash of water to keep it moist!

Can I freeze the Mexican Street Corn and Shrimp mixture?
Absolutely! For freezing, combine the grilled corn and shrimp in a freezer-safe bag or container. It can be stored for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.

What should I do if the shrimp are overcooked?
If you’ve accidentally overcooked your shrimp and they turned rubbery, there’s still hope! Adding a splash of broth or a little more creamy sauce while reheating can help revive some moisture. In the future, aim to cook the shrimp just until pink and opaque, which takes about 3-4 minutes.

Is this dish suitable for people with seafood allergies?
Very! If you or your guests have seafood allergies, you can easily substitute the shrimp with grilled chicken or tofu. Both options will still pair wonderfully with the creamy sauce and corn. Just be sure to adjust cooking times accordingly!

Can I enhance the flavor with additional spices?
Absolutely! Feel free to kick up the flavor by adding a pinch of smoked paprika or cumin to the shrimp while they cook. This will add an extra layer of warmth and richness that complements the charred corn perfectly!