Grilled Corn on the Cob: The Ultimate Summer Recipe

Grilled Corn on the Cob: Is there anything that screams summer quite like it? I think not! Imagine sinking your teeth into sweet, juicy kernels, kissed by the smoky char of the grill. It’s a flavor explosion that’s both simple and utterly satisfying. But this isn’t just about taste; it’s about tradition, too.

Corn, a staple in many cultures, has been cultivated for thousands of years. From its humble beginnings in Mesoamerica, it has spread across the globe, becoming a beloved ingredient in countless dishes. Grilling corn, in particular, is a time-honored method, passed down through generations. It’s a way to celebrate the bounty of the season and enjoy the natural sweetness of the corn in its purest form.

People adore grilled corn on the cob for its incredible flavor and ease of preparation. The grilling process enhances the corn’s natural sweetness, adding a smoky depth that’s simply irresistible. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile! You can slather it with butter, sprinkle it with herbs, or even add a spicy kick with chili powder. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or simply looking for a quick and delicious side dish, grilled corn on the cob is always a winner. So, let’s fire up the grill and get ready to enjoy this summer classic!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• 4 ears of fresh corn, husks and silk removed
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Optional: Lime wedges, for serving

Preparing the Corn:

1. First things first, let’s get that corn ready for the grill! Make sure you’ve completely removed the husks and silk from each ear of corn. Sometimes those little silk strands can be stubborn, so take your time and get them all off. Nobody wants to be picking silk out of their teeth later!
2. Now, give the corn a good rinse under cold water. This will help remove any lingering debris and also hydrate the kernels a bit, which will prevent them from drying out on the grill.
3. Pat the corn dry with paper towels. This is important because we want the corn to get a nice char on the grill, and excess moisture will hinder that process.

Making the Flavorful Butter Mixture:

1. While the grill is heating up, let’s whip up that amazing butter mixture that will take our grilled corn to the next level. In a medium bowl, combine the softened butter, mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, cilantro, chili powder, and garlic powder.
2. Season the mixture with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Don’t be shy with the seasoning! This is where all the flavor comes from.
3. Use a fork or a small whisk to thoroughly combine all the ingredients until you have a smooth and creamy mixture. If your butter isn’t quite soft enough, you can microwave it for a few seconds, but be careful not to melt it completely.
4. Taste the butter mixture and adjust the seasonings as needed. Maybe you want a little more chili powder for a spicier kick, or perhaps a touch more Parmesan for extra cheesiness. This is your chance to customize it to your liking!

Grilling the Corn:

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. You want the grill grates to be nice and hot so that the corn gets those beautiful grill marks.
2. Once the grill is hot, lightly oil the grates. This will prevent the corn from sticking and make it easier to turn. You can use a grill brush dipped in oil or spray the grates with cooking spray.
3. Place the corn directly on the hot grill grates. Make sure the ears of corn are evenly spaced so that they cook evenly.
4. Grill the corn for about 10-15 minutes, turning it every few minutes to ensure that all sides are evenly charred. You’ll know the corn is done when the kernels are tender and slightly browned. Keep a close eye on the corn and adjust the grilling time as needed, depending on the heat of your grill.
5. If the corn starts to char too quickly, you can move it to a cooler part of the grill or reduce the heat slightly. We want the corn to be cooked through, not just burnt on the outside.
6. To check for doneness, you can carefully pierce a kernel with a fork. If it’s tender and juicy, the corn is ready to go.

Applying the Butter and Serving:

1. Once the corn is grilled to perfection, remove it from the grill and place it on a platter.
2. While the corn is still hot, generously spread the butter mixture over each ear of corn. Use a spoon or a butter knife to ensure that every kernel is coated in that delicious flavor.
3. The heat from the corn will melt the butter mixture, creating a luscious and flavorful glaze.
4. If you’re feeling fancy, you can sprinkle a little extra Parmesan cheese or chopped cilantro over the corn for garnish.
5. Serve the grilled corn immediately while it’s still hot and the butter is melted.
6. Offer lime wedges on the side for those who like a little extra zing. A squeeze of lime juice really complements the flavors of the corn and the butter mixture.

Tips and Variations:

• Soaking the Corn: Some people like to soak the corn in water for about 30 minutes before grilling. This helps to prevent the husks from burning and keeps the corn moist. However, since we’re grilling the corn without the husks, this step isn’t necessary.
• Grilling with Husks: If you prefer to grill the corn with the husks on, soak the corn in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling. Then, pull back the husks, remove the silk, and brush the corn with olive oil or melted butter. Pull the husks back up and tie them with kitchen twine. Grill the corn over medium heat for about 20-25 minutes, turning occasionally.
• Different Seasonings: Feel free to experiment with different seasonings in the butter mixture. Some other great options include smoked paprika, cumin, cayenne pepper, or even a little bit of brown sugar for a touch of sweetness.
• Cheese Variations: Instead of Parmesan cheese, you can use other types of cheese, such as Cotija cheese, feta cheese, or even shredded cheddar cheese.
• Herb Variations: If you’re not a fan of cilantro, you can use other fresh herbs, such as parsley, chives, or basil.
• Spicy Kick: For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few drops of hot sauce to the butter mixture.
• Vegan Option: To make this recipe vegan, use vegan butter and vegan mayonnaise. You can also substitute the Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast.
• Serving Suggestions: Grilled corn on the cob is a perfect side dish for barbecues, picnics, or any summer gathering. It pairs well with grilled meats, salads, and other summer favorites.
• Leftovers: Leftover grilled corn can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the microwave, oven, or on the grill. You can also cut the kernels off the cob and use them in salads, soups, or tacos.

Troubleshooting:

• Corn is Burning: If the corn is burning too quickly, reduce the heat of the grill or move the corn to a cooler part of the grill. You can also wrap the corn in foil to protect it from the heat.
• Corn is Not Cooking Through: If the corn is not cooking through, increase the grilling time or move the corn to a hotter part of the grill. You can also cover the grill to trap the heat and help the corn cook more evenly.
• Butter Mixture is Too Thick: If the butter mixture is too thick, add a little bit of milk or cream to thin it out.
• Butter Mixture is Too Thin: If the butter mixture is too thin, add a little bit of Parmesan cheese or flour to thicken it up.

Enjoy your delicious grilled corn on the cob! I hope you love this recipe as much as I do. It’s a simple, yet incredibly flavorful way to enjoy fresh corn during the summer months. Happy grilling!

Conclusion:

And there you have it! This isn’t just grilled corn on the cob; it’s a summer flavor explosion waiting to happen. I truly believe this recipe is a must-try because it elevates a simple ingredient into something truly special. The combination of the smoky char, the sweet corn kernels, and that incredible herb butter is simply irresistible. It’s quick, easy, and guaranteed to impress your family and friends at your next barbecue.

But why is this grilled corn on the cob so special? It’s all about the details. The pre-soaking ensures the kernels stay plump and juicy, preventing them from drying out on the grill. The herb butter, oh, the herb butter! It’s a symphony of flavors that perfectly complements the sweetness of the corn. And the grilling technique, while simple, is crucial for achieving that perfect balance of char and tenderness.

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

Now, let’s talk about how you can serve this delicious corn. Of course, it’s fantastic on its own as a side dish. But don’t be afraid to get creative!

* Mexican Street Corn (Elote) Inspired: Slather the grilled corn with mayonnaise, sprinkle with cotija cheese, chili powder, and a squeeze of lime juice.
* Grilled Corn Salad: Cut the kernels off the cob and toss them with diced tomatoes, red onion, avocado, cilantro, and a lime vinaigrette.
* Corn and Black Bean Salsa: Combine the grilled corn kernels with black beans, bell peppers, red onion, jalapeno, and a cilantro-lime dressing. Serve with tortilla chips or as a topping for grilled chicken or fish.
* Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the herb butter for a little kick.
* Cheese Please: Sprinkle some Parmesan cheese or crumbled feta cheese over the grilled corn for an extra layer of flavor.
* Herb Variations: Feel free to experiment with different herbs in the butter. Try adding dill, chives, or parsley.
* Garlic Lovers: Add a clove of minced garlic to the herb butter for a more intense flavor.
* Vegan Option: Use a plant-based butter alternative and ensure your other ingredients are vegan-friendly.

The possibilities are endless! Don’t be afraid to experiment and find your favorite way to enjoy this grilled corn on the cob.

I’m so excited for you to try this recipe! I know you’ll love it as much as I do. It’s the perfect way to celebrate summer and enjoy the delicious flavors of fresh corn.

So, fire up your grill, gather your ingredients, and get ready to experience the best grilled corn on the cob you’ve ever had. And when you do, please share your experience with me! I’d love to hear what you think and see your creations. Tag me in your photos on social media, or leave a comment below. I can’t wait to see what you come up with! Happy grilling! I am sure that this grilled corn on the cob will become a staple in your summer menu.