Ranchero Corn
Bursting with vibrant flavors, Ranchero Corn is a quick and easy side dish that transforms simple corn kernels into a zesty, Tex-Mex-inspired delight. Featuring a medley of sautéed onions, garlic, and juicy diced tomatoes, this recipe is infused with bold spices like smoked paprika, ground cumin, and chili powder for a smoky, slightly spicy kick. A splash of fresh lime juice and a sprinkle of cilantro brighten the dish, while optional crumbles of cotija cheese add a creamy, salty finish. Perfect for weeknight dinners, barbecues, or potlucks, this 15-minute skillet recipe is versatile enough to be served alongside grilled meats, tacos, or as a standalone vegetarian option. Whether you’re working with fresh, frozen, or canned corn, this Ranchero Corn recipe guarantees a crowd-pleasing side dish packed with flavor and Tex-Mex flair.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 4 cups sweet corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup diced onion
- 2 cloves minced garlic
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1 diced jalapeño (seeds removed for less heat, if desired)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
- 0.25 cup cotija cheese (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and melt the butter with the olive oil.
Add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, until fragrant.
Add the corn kernels to the skillet and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the corn begins to char slightly.
Stir in the diced tomatoes, diced jalapeño, ground cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are well incorporated and heated through.
Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the lime juice and chopped cilantro.
Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt or lime juice, if desired.
Transfer the Ranchero Corn to a serving dish and sprinkle with cotija cheese, if using. Serve warm and enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
1407 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 69.8 g | 89% | |
| Saturated Fat | 30.8 g | 154% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1.3 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 115 mg | 38% | |
| Sodium | 2592 mg | 113% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 189.2 g | 69% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 31.6 g | 113% | |
| Total Sugars | 64.5 g | ||
| Protein | 45.6 g | 91% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 604 mg | 46% | |
| Iron | 8.9 mg | 49% | |
| Potassium | 3113 mg | 66% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
