Name: Vegan Corn Ribs with Aleppo Chili Butter & Lime Zest Cream Cheese Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Middle Eastern-inspired
Ingredients: 3 ears of corn – husks removed, ends trimmed; 3 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp sweet paprika powder (or smoky paprika powder); 1 tsp garlic powder; Salt & pepper to taste; 3 tbsp vegan butter; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 ½ tbsp Aleppo chili flakes; Salt to taste (if using unsalted butter); 125 g vegan cream cheese; Zest of 1 lime; ½ lime juiced; 2 tbsp toasted pine nuts; 1 green onion – finely chopped; 1 tbsp finely chopped coriander (or parsley); Additional lime zest for garnish (optional)

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 40 reviews

If you’re on the lookout for a vibrant and exciting vegan dish that combines bold flavors with irresistible textures, then you’re going to love this Vegan Corn Ribs with Aleppo Chili Butter & Lime Zest Cream Cheese Recipe. These corn ribs take the humble ear of corn and turn it into finger-licking, beautifully spiced wedges coated in a fragrant Aleppo chili butter, elevated further by a tangy, zesty lime cream cheese. Whether you’re looking for a fun appetizer or a standout side, this recipe brings sunshine to your plate with its playful presentation and layers of zesty, smoky, and creamy goodness.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Four ears of fresh corn lie on a worn wooden surface, each partially or fully husked. The corn kernels are tightly packed, smooth, and pale yellow, with a shiny texture. The green husks are pulled back to expose the corn, with strands of silk still visible, light green and white in color, adding a delicate touch to the composition. The wooden background has a rustic brown tone with scratches and white marks, enhancing the natural feel. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The ingredients for this dish are wonderfully straightforward, yet each one plays a crucial role in creating the complexity of flavor and perfect texture in your Vegan Corn Ribs with Aleppo Chili Butter & Lime Zest Cream Cheese Recipe. From the fresh sweetness of corn to the spicy warmth of Aleppo chili, every component will brighten your kitchen and your plate.

Corn ears: Choose long, fresh ears for the best “rib” effect and sweet flavor.
Olive oil: Adds subtle richness and helps crisp the corn beautifully.
Sweet paprika powder: Brings warmth and a mild smokiness without overpowering.
Garlic powder: Infuses a gentle savory note that enhances overall flavor.
Salt & pepper: Essential seasonings to balance and elevate all other tastes.
Vegan butter: Provides a creamy, rich base for the Aleppo chili butter.
Aleppo chili flakes: Offers a unique mild heat with fruity undertones, key to this dish’s signature kick.
Vegan cream cheese: Delivers tangy creaminess for the lime zest cream cheese topping.
Lime zest and juice: Adds a bright, fresh citrus twist to balance the spice.
Toasted pine nuts: Adds crunch and a subtle nutty depth as garnish.
Green onion and coriander: Fresh herbs bring color and herbal brightness to finish the dish.

How to Make Vegan Corn Ribs with Aleppo Chili Butter & Lime Zest Cream Cheese Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Corn Ribs

Start by removing the husks and trimming the ends of your corn ears, then carefully cut each ear into four lengthwise “ribs.” The ribs should be thin enough to crisp up nicely but thick enough to hold their shape. This is the foundation of your dish, so take your time ensuring the cuts are even for a great presentation.

Step 2: Season and Roast the Corn Ribs

In a large bowl, toss the corn ribs with olive oil, sweet paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until each piece is evenly coated. Spread the ribs in a single layer on a baking tray lined with parchment paper or a lightly greased sheet. Roast at 200°C (about 400°F) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the ribs are golden and slightly charred on the edges. This roasting process caramelizes the natural sugars in the corn and enhances its sweetness.

Step 3: Make Aleppo Chili Butter

While the corn roasts, melt the vegan butter in a small saucepan over medium heat, then stir in olive oil and Aleppo chili flakes. Allow the mixture to warm gently for a few minutes to infuse the butter with the smoky, mild heat of the chili. Add salt to taste if using unsalted butter. This spicy butter will add a deliciously complex layer to your corn ribs.

Step 4: Prepare Lime Zest Cream Cheese

In a bowl, combine vegan cream cheese with freshly grated lime zest and the juice of half a lime. Mix until smooth and creamy. This topping provides a cooling, zesty contrast to the heat of the Aleppo chili butter. Make sure to taste and adjust the lime to your liking—this cream cheese should sing with bright citrus notes.

Step 5: Assemble and Garnish

Once the corn ribs are roasted, drizzle or brush them generously with the Aleppo chili butter. Serve each portion with a dollop of lime zest cream cheese on the side or spread lightly over the ribs for an extra burst of flavor. Scatter toasted pine nuts, finely chopped green onion, and coriander on top for a fresh crunch and herbaceous aromatic finish.

How to Serve Vegan Corn Ribs with Aleppo Chili Butter & Lime Zest Cream Cheese Recipe

A white plate filled with several short corn cobs that are grilled with char marks, each piece showing golden yellow kernels. The corn pieces are topped with creamy white sauce dollops, dark red chili powder or sauce drizzles, and scattered fresh green chopped herbs. Lightly toasted small pine nuts are sprinkled on top, adding texture. The plate is placed on a white marbled surface with some pine nuts and herbs scattered around it. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Simple garnishes can make this dish pop visually and flavor-wise. Use toasted pine nuts for crunch, freshly chopped green onions for a mild sharpness, and vibrant coriander or parsley for a fresh herbal note. A little extra lime zest sprinkled on top does wonders to brighten each bite.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs beautifully with a light green salad, perhaps with a tangy vinaigrette to complement the lime cream cheese, or with some smoky grilled vegetables for a seasonal feast. Vegan grain bowls featuring quinoa or couscous are also fantastic, making the corn ribs the star protein-free element of a bigger meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun presentation, arrange the corn ribs standing up on a platter, leaning against each other like ribs on a rack. Alternatively, stack them with layers of lime cream cheese and herbs between each piece for a striking tower of flavor. Serving them on a slate board with small bowls of extra Aleppo chili butter and lime cream cheese for dipping always receives rave reviews.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover corn ribs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the lime zest cream cheese separate to maintain its fresh flavor and avoid condensation making the ribs soggy.

Freezing

While the corn ribs can be frozen, their texture may soften slightly upon thawing. If you choose to freeze them, flash freeze individually on a tray until firm, then transfer to a sealed container. Freeze for up to one month.

Reheating

Reheat the ribs in a hot oven or toaster oven at 180°C (350°F) for 8-10 minutes to help crisp them back up. Avoid microwaving as this can make them rubbery or soggy. Reheat the Aleppo chili butter separately on the stove and refresh the lime cream cheese with a quick stir before serving.

FAQs

Can I use regular chili flakes instead of Aleppo chili flakes?

Yes, but Aleppo chili flakes have a unique mild heat with slightly fruity and tangy notes that give this recipe its distinct flavor. If you substitute, try to use mild chili flakes to keep the balance right.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! All ingredients in the Vegan Corn Ribs with Aleppo Chili Butter & Lime Zest Cream Cheese Recipe are naturally gluten-free, making this a safe choice for those with gluten sensitivities.

Can I make this recipe nut-free?

Simply omit the toasted pine nuts from the garnish, or substitute with toasted seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds for crunch without nuts.

What’s the best way to cut the corn ribs?

Cut the corn lengthwise into quarters. Use a sharp knife and steady hands to ensure even “ribs” that hold together during cooking and look great when served.

Can I prepare parts of this recipe in advance?

Yes! The lime zest cream cheese can be mixed a day ahead and kept refrigerated. The Aleppo chili butter can also be made early and warmed gently before serving.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly joyful about transforming simple corn into these bold, flavorful Vegan Corn Ribs with Aleppo Chili Butter & Lime Zest Cream Cheese Recipe bites. The combination of smoky, spicy, creamy, and tangy flavors makes this a standout recipe to impress guests or simply enjoy cozy nights in. I can’t encourage you enough to give it a try—once you do, it might just become a new favorite to reach for whenever you want to impress with minimal fuss and maximum flavor.