Introduction
Hey there, fellow food lovers! Ready to transform humble Brussels sprouts into a vibrant, flavor-packed side dish that’ll steal the show at your next Mexican-themed feast? This Street Corn Brussels Sprouts recipe takes all the best parts of that classic Mexican street corn—the sweet corn, the creamy mayo, the spicy chili powder—and gives them a crunchy, healthy makeover with Brussels sprouts! Get ready for a delicious explosion of textures and tastes.
Why This Works
This recipe is a winner because it’s incredibly easy to make, uses readily available ingredients, and delivers a fantastic balance of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors. The Brussels sprouts get wonderfully crispy on the outside while staying tender inside, and the vibrant street corn flavors make them irresistible, even for picky eaters!
Key Ingredients
- 🥬 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 🌽 1 cup frozen corn
- 🌶️ 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 🧀 1/4 cup cotija cheese, crumbled (or substitute with feta)
- 🌿 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro
- 🌶️ 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 🧂 1 teaspoon lime juice
- 🧂 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 🧂 Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1️⃣ Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2️⃣ Toss the Brussels sprouts with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
3️⃣ Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the Brussels sprouts are tender and slightly browned.
4️⃣ While the Brussels sprouts are roasting, combine the mayonnaise, cotija cheese, cilantro, chili powder, lime juice, and cumin in a bowl.
5️⃣ Once the Brussels sprouts are cooked, add the frozen corn to the baking sheet and roast for another 5 minutes, or until heated through.
6️⃣ Pour the mayonnaise mixture over the roasted Brussels sprouts and corn, tossing gently to coat.
7️⃣ Serve immediately and enjoy!
Handy Tips
- For extra crispy Brussels sprouts, try roasting them for a few minutes longer.
- If you don’t have cotija cheese, feta cheese makes a great substitute.
- Feel free to adjust the amount of chili powder to your preferred spice level.
Heat Control
The oven temperature of 400°F (200°C) is ideal for achieving perfectly roasted Brussels sprouts with a nice char without burning them. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes of cooking to prevent over-browning.
Crunch Factor
The key to this recipe’s amazing crunch is roasting the Brussels sprouts until they’re tender and slightly browned on the edges. Roasting the corn alongside them also helps achieve a delightful bite. The combination of crispy Brussels sprouts and sweet corn is simply irresistible!
Pro Kitchen Tricks
- For a smoky flavor, try roasting the Brussels sprouts on a grill pan.
- Add a squeeze of fresh lime juice just before serving for extra zing.
- Sprinkle some toasted pepitas (pumpkin seeds) on top for added texture and flavor.
Storage Tips
Leftover Street Corn Brussels Sprouts can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They’re best enjoyed fresh, but reheating them gently in a pan or microwave works well.
Gift Packaging Ideas
These delicious Brussels sprouts would make a fantastic side dish for a potluck or a festive gathering. You could pack them in a cute reusable container tied with a festive ribbon or simply present them on a beautiful serving platter.
Flavor Variations
🌟 Chipotle Lime: Add a pinch of chipotle powder to the mayonnaise mixture for a smoky kick.
🌟 Spicy Mango: Stir in some diced mango for a sweet and spicy contrast.
🌟 Avocado Crema: Replace the mayonnaise with a creamy avocado mixture made from mashed avocado, lime juice, and cilantro.
🌟 Bacon Bits: Crumble some cooked bacon over the top for a salty, savory boost.
Troubleshooting
- Brussels sprouts are too soft: Roast them for a few minutes longer, or increase the oven temperature slightly.
- Brussels sprouts are burnt: Reduce the oven temperature and keep a closer eye on them while roasting.
FAQ
- Can I use fresh corn instead of frozen? Yes, absolutely! Just add the fresh corn to the baking sheet during the last 5-7 minutes of roasting.
- Can I make this recipe ahead of time? It’s best to roast the Brussels sprouts and assemble the dish just before serving to maintain their optimal texture and flavor.
- Can I add other vegetables? Feel free to add other roasted vegetables like bell peppers or onions for extra flavor and color.
Conclusion
We hope you’ll give this Street Corn Brussels Sprouts recipe a try! It’s a simple yet elegant way to elevate your next Mexican meal. Enjoy the delicious flavors and don’t forget to share your creations with us – we’d love to see your culinary masterpieces!