Sink your teeth into this irresistible Mexican street corn! Our elote recipe brings the vibrant flavors of Mexico to your backyard BBQ without the heavy saturated fats found in traditional street food. By swapping out mayonnaise for tangy, lime-spiked Greek yogurt, we’ve created a version that is every bit as creamy and satisfying as the original.
Grilled corn on the cob is slathered with our signature yogurt sauce, then finished with a sprinkle of chili powder and salty cotija cheese. Whether you're hosting a summer cookout or looking for a nutritious side dish that the whole family will love, this 20-minute recipe is a total fiesta for your taste buds!
Looking for more delicious flavors from south of the border? Check out all of our amazing healthy Mexican recipes!
This recipe transforms a classic street food indulgence into a heart-healthy side by replacing calorie-dense mayonnaise with nonfat plain Greek yogurt. This simple swap significantly reduces saturated fat and cholesterol while maintaining the signature creamy texture that makes elote so iconic.
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Nonfat plain Greek yogurt is the best substitute. It offers the same creamy consistency with significantly less fat and added protein.
Yes! By using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise and limiting the amount of cheese and butter, elote becomes a fiber-rich, nutrient-dense vegetable side.
While you can use a small amount of heart-healthy plant-based spread, using Greek yogurt provides a much creamier texture and better nutritional profile than butter alone.
Yes, all the primary ingredients in this recipe—corn, yogurt, and cotija cheese—are naturally gluten-free.
Discover nutrient-dense and delicious ways to enjoy traditional flavors with these healthy Mexican favorites that prioritize lean proteins and fresh ingredients.
Boost your fiber intake with these heart-healthy vegetable sides that showcase the natural sweetness and versatile crunch of corn in every bite.
Recipe yields 6 servings
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the garlic, salt, pepper, lime zest, lime juice, Greek yogurt and cilantro; mix well and set aside.
Heat grill to medium-high heat and clean the grates. Add the corn and grill on each side for about 3 minutes, until kernels turn golden brown and begin to char lightly.
Remove from grill and immediately brush each ear of corn with sauce. Sprinkle with Cotija cheese and chipotle powder and garnish with cilantro. Serve hot.
This flavorful side pairs perfectly with lean proteins and vibrant Mexican mains. Try it alongside grilled chicken kebabs, turkey tacos, or a fresh shrimp ceviche. For a complete heart-healthy fiesta, serve it with a side of black beans and a squeeze of extra lime.
If you can't find cotija, crumbled feta cheese is an excellent heart-healthy substitute with a similar salty profile.
Use a plain, unsweetened almond or soy-based yogurt and a dairy-free "feta-style" crumble to make this recipe completely plant-based.
Swap chipotle powder for smoked paprika if you prefer a milder, smoky flavor without the heat.