Southwestern Corn Skillet with Chile and Lime

Fresh, sweet corn sauteed with Mexican spices and then tossed with lime was an excellent idea. I used just enough chile to provide flavor without any heat. If you want some heat, simply increase the amount of chile powder. I was excited to get my hands on a few more ears of truly sweet corn this past weekend. There is a farm near our cabin where they actually have an annual festival to celebrate the arrival of the corn each year. We didn't attend the festival; but luckily for us, the grocery stores in the area stock the corn for as long as it lasts.

In the mood for some southwestern flavors, this corn was exactly what I was craving. I couldn't wait for dinner, so I actually made this first thing in the morning and ate a fair amount of it for my breakfast. Apparently, I have a serious addiction to corn this year. Last year, it was zucchini filling my kitchen. Who knows what I'll fixate on next year? If you have opportunity to pick up some truly fresh corn this year, don't wait. There is nothing else like it.

Southwest Corn Skillet with Chili and Lime

1 tablespoon butter
4 ears of fresh corn, about 5 cups worth of kernels removed from the cob
3/4 teaspoon kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
1/8 teaspoon cumin
1/8 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/8 teaspoon chile powder, I used NM red chile, adjust to taste
2 teaspoons fresh lime juice
Optional: 4 strips of bacon, cut into 1/2" strips

Bacon option: In a large skillet, cook the bacon pieces over medium high heat for about 5-6 minutes. When the bacon is crisp, remove to a paper towel lined plate. Drain the grease, reserving just a teaspoon or two in the pan.

Heat a large skillet over medium high heat and melt a tablespoon of butter in the pan. (You can skip the butter if you are using the pan after cooking bacon.) Add the corn, salt, pepper, cumin, paprika and chile powder to the hot skillet and toss to coat. Saute for 2-3 minutes until warm and still crisp. Drizzle with lime juice and toss again. Serve hot, topped with the crisp bacon. Enjoy!



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