Grilled Corn on the Cob

Grilled Corn on the Cob Recipe

Grilled corn on the cob is a quintessential summer treat that brings the taste of the outdoors right to your table.
Bursting with sweet, juicy flavor, this dish is not only easy to prepare but also perfect for backyard barbecues, picnics, or just a casual dinner.
With its smoky aroma and charred goodness, grilled corn will surely be a hit, whether served as a side or on its own. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe!

Recipe Information

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

• Calories per serving: 100
• Protein: 3g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fat: 4.5g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 100mg

Why I Love This Grilled Corn on the Cob

I absolutely adore grilled corn on the cob because it embodies the essence of summer. There’s something magical about biting into those warm, perfectly charred kernels. It takes me back to summer cookouts, where the smell of grilling corn mingles with laughter and sunshine. Plus, this recipe is incredibly simple! Just brush on some olive oil, toss on a little salt and pepper, and you’re ready to savor the smoky, sweet delight. It’s a fantastic way to elevate any meal and brings a joyful burst of color and flavor to the plate.

Ingredients

• 4 ears of corn, husked
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt to taste
• Pepper to taste
• Optional toppings: butter, parmesan cheese, chili powder

How to Make Grilled Corn on the Cob

Step 1: Preheat the Grill

Start off by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This will ensure that your corn gets those beautiful char marks and cooks evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Corn

Husk the corn and remove any silk. Then, brush each ear lightly with olive oil. This not only adds flavor but helps the corn achieve that golden char. Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste using your favorites to enhance the natural sweetness.

Step 3: Grill the Corn

Place the prepared corn directly on the grill grates. Cook for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally. Keep an eye on it until the corn is evenly charred and fragrant.

Step 4: Serve with Toppings

Once grilled to perfection, remove the corn from the grill. Feel free to slather it with butter, sprinkle on some parmesan cheese, or add a dash of chili powder for a kick. Serve it warm and enjoy!

Tips and Variations

• For a slightly smoky flavor, soak the corn (still in husks) in water for 20-30 minutes before grilling.
• If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding spices like garlic powder or smoked paprika for an extra layer of flavor.
• This recipe is naturally gluten-free and vegetarian. You can easily make it dairy-free by skipping the cheese or using a plant-based butter.
• To save time, grill multiple ears at once if your grill space allows!

Delicious Variations

• Mexican Street Corn (Elote): Slather the grilled corn with a mixture of mayonnaise, lime juice, chili powder, and cheese for a traditional twist.
• Herb-Infused Butter Corn: Use herbed butter with fresh herbs like basil or cilantro for a fragrant topping.
• Spicy Grilled Corn Salad: Cut the grilled corn off the cob and toss it with diced tomatoes, onions, and avocado for a refreshing salad.
• BBQ Corn Fritters: Combine grilled corn with flour, eggs, and spices for a fun twist in fritter form.

Serving Suggestions for Grilled Corn on the Cob

Serve your grilled corn hot off the grill for the best experience! It’s perfect for summertime dinners or as a vibrant side dish at barbecues. Pair with refreshing drinks like lemonade or iced tea, and complement it with grilled meats or summer salads. For an amazing combo, serve it alongside a classic burger or grilled chicken — you won’t regret it!

Storage and Leftovers

Should you have any leftovers, store the grilled corn in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 3 to 5 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it—just cut the kernels off the cob first, and they’ll keep for about 6 months. Reheat in the microwave or in a skillet for a tasty reminder of warm summer days!

Helpful Questions

1. Can I use frozen corn instead?
While fresh corn is best for grilling, you can use frozen corn by grilling it in a grill basket. Just keep in mind the cooking time may vary.

2. How do I know when the corn is done?
The corn is done when it’s lightly charred and tender. A simple poke with a fork should show you the kernels are juicy and soft.

3. Can I make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely! Simply skip any toppings that are dairy-based or use vegan alternatives instead.

4. What other seasonings work well?
Aside from salt and pepper, you can use smoked paprika, garlic powder, or even ranch seasoning for a flavor boost.

5. How can I add more flavor during grilling?
Try marinating the corn in your favorite oils or spices before grilling for an enhanced flavor profile. You could even experiment with barbecue sauce for a sweet and smoky finish!

Now that you know how to make this delicious grilled corn on the cob, gather your ingredients, fire up the grill, and enjoy the taste of summer!

Print