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Grilled Corn with Hot Paprika Oil and Manchego Cheese (Maíz Rustido)

This vibrant grilled corn with pimentón oil and Manchego cheese, known as maíz rustido, is a beautiful celebration of simple, bold flavours. The sweetness of the charred corn is perfectly balanced by the smoky heat of the Spanish paprika and the sharp, citrusy brightness of fresh lime. It is a wonderful way to elevate a humble vegetable into a sophisticated heart-healthy side dish or a light, nutritious lunch that feels truly indulgent.

As a heart-healthy option, this recipe relies on high-quality extra-virgin olive oil and nutrient-dense ingredients to provide maximum flavour with minimal fuss. It is an ideal choice for outdoor dining or a quick midweek meal, offering a satisfying crunch and a hit of savoury umami from the aged Manchego.

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Ingredients for Grilled Corn with Hot Paprika Oil and Manchego Cheese (Maíz Rustido)

  • 1 lime

  • 3 ears of corn, husks and silk removed

  • 1 teaspoon hot pimentón (smoked paprika)

  • 20ml extra-virgin olive oil

  • 30g aged Manchego cheese

  • Maldon sea salt

How to make Grilled Corn with Hot Paprika Oil and Manchego Cheese (Maíz Rustido)

Heat a grill to high. (As an alternative, you could use a rack set over a gas burner.)

Trim the top and bottom off the lime. Remove and reserve the zest. Slice between the membranes to release the lime segments. Reserve in a large bowl. Grill the corn, turning to char evenly, until dark brown all over and tender, about 5 minutes. When cool enough to handle, cut the kernels off the cobs. Transfer to the bowl containing the lime segments and toss until well mixed. Divide among serving dishes.

Mix the pimentón and oil in a small bowl and drizzle all over the corn. Shave the cheese directly over the corn mixture with a microplane, then sprinkle the lime zest on top. Sprinkle with Maldon salt and serve immediately.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 16 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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