As I was strolling through the vibrant streets of Mexico City, the irresistible aroma of grilled corn mixed with spices danced in the air, reminding me of summer nights spent in lively markets. These Mexican Street Corn Brussels Sprouts capture that very essence, transforming humble Brussels sprouts into a flavor-packed side dish your taste buds will adore. With quick prep time and a crowd-pleasing twist on classic flavors, this recipe is perfect for those evenings when you crave something crispy, creamy, and utterly delightful. Imagine golden-brown sprouts topped with zesty crema and a sprinkle of cotija cheese that adds a delightful flair to any meal. Are you ready to take your taste buds on a flavorful journey?
Why You’ll Crave These Brussels Sprouts?
Simplicity at its Finest: This recipe requires minimal prep, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of creamy sauce, zesty lime, and smoky chili powder creates an unforgettable taste that steals the spotlight of any meal.
Versatile Side Dish: Pair it with grilled meats, tacos, or even serve it alone as a snack. Each bite offers a burst of flavor!
Healthy Indulgence: Packed with nutrients while still delivering on flavor, these sprouts offer a guilt-free way to satisfy savory cravings.
Don’t forget to check out other delightful recipes like Honey Glazed Corn for a sweet complement or Cinnamon Honey Cornbread to round out the meal!
Mexican Street Corn Brussels Sprouts Ingredients
• Here’s everything you need to create this flavorful dish!
For the Brussels Sprouts
- Brussels Sprouts – Use fresh sprouts for the best texture and taste.
- Olive Oil – Helps achieve a crispy exterior; avocado oil is a great substitute.
- Chili Powder – Adds a smoky kick to the dish; smoked paprika can be used for a twist.
For the Creamy Sauce
- Mayonnaise – Forms the base of the creamy sauce; opt for Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
- Sour Cream – Enhances tanginess; you can use additional mayonnaise or yogurt instead.
- Lime Juice – Brightens up flavors; lemon juice works as a good alternative.
For Topping
- Cotija Cheese – Adds a salty and crumbly finish; feta cheese can be a suitable alternative.
- Fresh Cilantro – Gives a burst of herbal freshness; feel free to swap with parsley if desired.
- Additional Chili Powder – Sprinkle more for an extra touch of spice if you dare!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Mexican Street Corn Brussels Sprouts
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is perfect for roasting Brussels sprouts, ensuring they become crispy and golden brown. A preheated oven will help lock in flavors and maintain that delightful texture we all love.
Step 2: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts
Next, take your fresh Brussels sprouts and trim off the ends. Halve them carefully and place them in a large mixing bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with chili powder and salt. Toss everything together until the sprouts are evenly coated and shining with oil and spice, which will help achieve that crispy finish.
Step 3: Roast the Brussels Sprouts
Spread the seasoned Brussels sprouts onto a baking sheet in a single layer, ensuring they have space to roast evenly. Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven and roast for 20-25 minutes. Halfway through, give them a stir to ensure even cooking, and keep an eye out for a lovely golden color and crispy edges.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce
While the Brussels sprouts are roasting to perfection, it’s time to whip up the creamy sauce. In a mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, and an extra dash of chili powder. Stir well until all ingredients are blended into a smooth and creamy mixture. This sauce will bring a delicious tanginess to the Mexican Street Corn Brussels Sprouts.
Step 5: Toss with the Creamy Sauce
Once the Brussels sprouts are browned and crispy, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly. In a mixing bowl, toss the roasted sprouts with the creamy sauce, ensuring each sprout is evenly coated in that delicious mixture. The heat from the sprouts will gently warm the sauce, enhancing the flavors beautifully.
Step 6: Add Finishing Touches
Finally, transfer the sauced Mexican Street Corn Brussels Sprouts to a serving platter. Sprinkle crumbled cotija cheese on top for a salty finish, and if you’re feeling adventurous, add a little more chili powder for an extra kick. A squeeze of fresh lime juice over the top will brighten up the dish even more before serving.
Mexican Street Corn Brussels Sprouts Variations
Feel free to unleash your creativity in the kitchen with these flavorful twists that will elevate your Brussels sprouts experience!
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Cauliflower Swap: Replace Brussels sprouts with cauliflower for a unique texture that’s equally delightful.
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Grilled Corn Addition: Toss in some grilled corn for a sweet and crunchy element that brings an authentic touch to your dish.
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Vegan Version: Use a vegan mayonnaise and dairy-free cheese alternative to keep this dish plant-based without losing richness.
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Smoky Twist: Experiment with chipotle powder instead of chili powder for a spicy, smoky kick that will thrill your taste buds.
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Garlic Boost: Add minced garlic to the creamy sauce for an aromatic depth that complements the other flavors beautifully.
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Spicy Kick: If you love heat, drizzle some hot sauce over the finished dish for an extra zing that might just make your mouth water!
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Lemon Zest Finish: For a bright and tangy touch, add a sprinkle of lemon zest on top right before serving. It freshens up the entire dish!
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Crispy Topping: Crushed tortilla chips are a delightful crunchy topping that adds texture and a fun twist to your Brussels sprouts.
Don’t forget, you can always explore more recipes to complement your meal, such as the delicious Honey Glazed Corn or indulge in a serving of Cinnamon Honey Cornbread for a sweet contrast!
Make Ahead Options
These Mexican Street Corn Brussels Sprouts are a fantastic choice for meal prep! You can trim and halve the Brussels sprouts and toss them in olive oil, chili powder, and salt up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can prepare the creamy sauce by mixing mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, and chili powder ahead of time and refrigerate it as well. When you’re ready to serve, simply roast the sprouts directly from the fridge for 20-25 minutes until crispy and golden. Toss them with the creamy sauce, and you’ll have a flavorful side dish that’s just as delightful as if you made it fresh!
What to Serve with Mexican Street Corn Brussels Sprouts?
These zesty Brussels sprouts are bursting with flavor and are the perfect anchor for a delicious, unforgettable meal.
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Grilled Steak: Pairing this dish with a juicy grilled steak creates a wonderful contrast of flavors—smoky and savory delights enhance each bite. The richness of a perfectly cooked steak complements the bright, zesty notes of the Brussels sprouts beautifully.
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Cilantro Lime Rice: The fresh flavors of cilantro lime rice harmonize exquisitely with the creaminess of the Brussels sprouts. It adds a refreshing touch that invites you into each mouthful.
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Taco Bar: Serve up a taco bar alongside these sprouts, featuring a variety of meats and toppings. The vibrant flavors and textures of tacos alongside the crispy sprout addition will delight every guest at your gathering.
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Spicy Black Beans: Earthy black beans seasoned with spices create a hearty dish that matches the bold flavors of the Brussels sprouts. Their creaminess balances the crunch perfectly.
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Corn Tortillas: Lightly toasted corn tortillas are a fantastic side to scoop up both the Brussels sprouts and any additional toppings. They add a delicious crunch and earthy flavor that pairs well with the entire meal.
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Margaritas: To wash it all down, serve refreshing margaritas. The citrus notes will blend well with the creamy smokiness of the dish, creating a vibrant dining experience.
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Churros: For dessert, consider offering churros to end the meal on a sweet note. Their crispy exterior and warm cinnamon-sugar coating perfectly complement the spicy and savory flavors from earlier courses.
Storage Tips for Mexican Street Corn Brussels Sprouts
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This helps maintain freshness and flavor, ensuring every bite is satisfying.
Freezer: While freezing is not recommended for this dish due to potential texture loss, you can freeze unroasted Brussels sprouts. Simply blanch them first and freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating: For optimal crispiness, reheat the Mexican Street Corn Brussels Sprouts in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. Avoid microwaving, as it may make them soggy.
Room Temperature: If serving at a gathering, try to keep the sprouts at room temperature while enjoying them. They are best eaten fresh, but leftovers are still a great option!
Expert Tips for Mexican Street Corn Brussels Sprouts
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Choose Fresh Sprouts: Fresh, firm Brussels sprouts yield the best flavor and texture. Avoid yellowing or blemished ones for a delightful dish.
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Even Coating: Ensure your Brussels sprouts are evenly coated in olive oil and seasonings to achieve an exquisite crispy texture without burning.
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Watch the Roast: Keep a close eye on the sprouts during the final minutes of roasting. They can quickly go from perfect to burnt, so check for golden-brown edges.
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Customize the Sauce: Feel free to experiment! Add garlic powder or crushed chipotle to the creamy sauce for an extra flavor boost, transforming the Mexican Street Corn Brussels Sprouts.
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Serving Suggestions: These sprouts shine as a side dish for grilled meats or tacos. Consider serving them alongside a fresh salsa for a colorful presentation!
Mexican Street Corn Brussels Sprouts Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best Brussels sprouts?
Absolutely! Look for firm Brussels sprouts with a vibrant green color and tightly packed leaves. Avoid any with yellowing or dark spots, as these are signs of aging. Freshness is key for achieving the best flavor and texture.
What’s the best way to store leftover Brussels sprouts?
You can store the leftover Mexican Street Corn Brussels Sprouts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Be sure to let them cool completely before sealing to maintain their fresh flavors and textures.
Can I freeze Brussels sprouts for later use?
While it’s not recommended to freeze the fully cooked Mexican Street Corn Brussels Sprouts due to potential texture loss, you can freeze unroasted Brussels sprouts. Blanch them in boiling water for about 3 minutes, then plunge them into ice water. Drain, then pack in freezer bags and store for up to 3 months.
What if my Brussels sprouts aren’t crispy enough?
Very! If your Brussels sprouts turn out less crispy than you’d like, ensure they are evenly coated with olive oil and don’t overcrowd the baking sheet during roasting. If they still lack crunch, you can try broiling them for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end of roasting for that crispy finish.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Definitely! If you have a dairy allergy or are following a vegan diet, consider using a plant-based mayonnaise and dairy-free cheese as substitutes. These adjustments will keep the dish just as flavorful and creamy without compromising your dietary needs.
How can I enhance the flavors of this dish?
If you’re looking to kick it up a notch, you can customize the creamy sauce by adding minced garlic or a touch of smoked chipotle for a smoky heat. You could also mix in some diced avocado or grilled corn to add different textures and deepen the summery vibes of your Mexican Street Corn Brussels Sprouts!
Mexican Street Corn Brussels Sprouts That'll Make You Smile
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Trim and halve the Brussels sprouts. In a bowl, toss them with olive oil, chili powder, and salt.
- Spread the sprouts on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway.
- In a bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, and chili powder to create the sauce.
- Toss the roasted sprouts with the creamy sauce after they cool slightly.
- Transfer to a serving platter and sprinkle with cotija cheese and additional chili powder. Squeeze lime juice over the top.
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