Eating corn on the cob every summer is one of my fondest childhood memories. I grew up in New Jersey, and while no one likes to hear good things about the place, it produces excellent sweet corn. It’s so good, in fact, that butter and salt seem more like accessories than necessities. But every now and then, perfection can be improved upon, and elotes are a great way to make your summer corn a grand event.

Elotes are humble corn on the cob, but they are done to perfection. It is a Mexican dish that is made with simple ingredients that make a big impact on the flavor. You can grill, steam, or boil the corn, and while you will find recipes that recommend one over the other, it really comes down to personal preference. Of course, grilling will add some extra flavor, but boiling and steaming are much gentler methods. I prefer boiling because I usually make small portions and it is easy to avoid overcooking.

Cook as many corn on the cob as you like, in whatever style you prefer. After the corn is done, place it on a wire rack to cool. This also gives it a chance to dry out if you used a watery cooking method. Squeeze lime juice into a bowl and add some mayonnaise. Use a pastry brush to mix them together and spread the spicy mayonnaise over the corn on the cob. You don’t need too much mayonnaise, but enough to form a sticky layer for the cheese. Crumble some queso fresco, or cotija, onto a plate. Roll each corn on the cob in the crumbled cheese, one at a time. I like to use a spoon to press the cheese into any stubborn bits. Repeat with the remaining cobs.

It’s that simple: the elotes are done. You can finish the ears with some chili powder, salt, or chopped cilantro, or set out bowls of toppings for people to top them with whatever they like. If you live in a household where you don’t like mayonnaise, try using plain yogurt or sour cream as a glue. I recommend using a pastry brush for this; it’s easiest and prevents you from getting mayonnaise all over the brush. If you don’t have a pastry brush, buy one. They’re only a few bucks. In the meantime, you can use your hands. Listen, I didn’t say it would be pretty. If you have them, put on a pair of vinyl gloves, but if you don’t, you can always use soap and water.