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Crispy Skillet Chili Lime Corn Ribs with Jalapeño Ranch

crispy skillet chili lime corn ribs - featured image

A quick and easy recipe for crispy corn ribs seasoned with chili lime and served with a creamy, spicy jalapeño ranch dip. Perfect for summer gatherings, snacks, or a flavorful side dish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 ears fresh corn on the cob, husked and cut into quarters lengthwise to create ribs
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • Pinch of black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or avocado oil
  • For the Jalapeño Ranch:
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt for lighter option)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
  • 1 small fresh jalapeño, finely diced (seeds removed for milder heat)
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried dill
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Corn Ribs: Husk fresh ears of corn and slice each ear lengthwise into four ribs, keeping kernels intact. Pat dry with a kitchen towel.
  2. Make the Chili Lime Seasoning: In a small bowl, combine chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and lime zest from one lime. Mix well.
  3. Season the Corn Ribs: Brush each corn rib lightly with olive oil. Sprinkle the chili lime seasoning evenly over all sides, pressing gently to adhere.
  4. Heat the Skillet: Place a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat and let it get hot.
  5. Cook the Corn Ribs: Lay corn ribs flat in the hot skillet without overcrowding. Cook 4-5 minutes per side until golden and crispy, turning carefully with tongs or spatula. Adjust heat if skillet smokes too much.
  6. Prepare the Jalapeño Ranch: While corn cooks, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, diced jalapeño, garlic powder, dried dill, salt, and pepper. Chill until serving.
  7. Serve Immediately: Arrange corn ribs on a platter and drizzle or serve jalapeño ranch on the side. Garnish with extra lime zest or chopped cilantro if desired.

Notes

Pat corn ribs dry to ensure crispiness. Do not overcrowd the pan to avoid steaming. Let each side sear undisturbed for best crust. Jalapeño ranch flavors improve after chilling for at least 30 minutes. For dairy-free, substitute vegan mayo and coconut yogurt or cashew cream for sour cream.

Nutrition

Keywords: corn ribs, chili lime, jalapeño ranch, skillet recipe, summer snack, crispy corn, easy appetizer