How to Grill Corn on the Cob

Grilling corn on the cob is a fantastic way to enhance its natural sweetness and add a smoky flavor. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or simply craving a summery side dish, grilled corn is a crowd-pleaser. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of grilling corn to perfection and provide you with a mouthwatering recipe that will elevate your next outdoor gathering.

How to Grill Corn 🌽

Step 1: Choose Fresh Corn:
To ensure the best flavor, opt for fresh corn on the cob. Look for ears with bright green husks, moist silk, and plump kernels. Avoid corn with dry or brown husks, as it may not be as flavorful.

Step 2: Preheat the Grill:
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Aim for a temperature of around 375°F (190°C). This allows for a good balance between cooking the corn and achieving those beautiful grill marks.

Step 3: Prepare the Corn:
Peel back the husks of the corn, but leave them attached at the base to create a natural handle. Remove the silk threads by hand or with a stiff brush, making sure to remove as much as possible.

Step 4: Soak the Corn:
To prevent the corn from drying out during grilling, soak the ears in cold water for about 10-15 minutes. This helps retain moisture and prevents the husks from burning.

Step 5: Season the Corn (optional):
You can add flavor to your grilled corn by brushing it with melted butter or olive oil. Sprinkle some salt, pepper, or your favorite seasonings for an extra kick. This step is entirely optional but enhances the taste.

Step 6: Grill the Corn:
Place the corn on the preheated grill. If desired, you can fold back the husks to expose the kernels and create those signature grill marks. Grill for approximately 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the corn is tender and lightly charred.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy:
Once the corn is grilled to perfection, remove it from the grill. Allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving. Optionally, you can brush the corn with additional melted butter or sprinkle it with herbs and grated cheese for added flavor. Serve it hot alongside your favorite dishes.

Grilled Corn Recipe: Herb-Buttered Delight
Ingredients:
– 4 ears of fresh corn on the cob
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
– 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.

2. Peel back the husks of the corn, leaving them attached at the base. Remove the silk threads.

3. Soak the corn in cold water for 10-15 minutes.

4. In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, parsley, chives, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to incorporate the herbs.

5. Remove the corn from the water and pat dry with a paper towel.

6. Brush each ear of corn with the herb butter mixture, ensuring an even coating.

7. Place the corn on the preheated grill and cook for approximately 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the corn is tender and lightly charred.

8. Remove the corn from the grill and let it cool for a few minutes.

9. Serve the grilled corn hot, optionally brushing it with additional herb butter and seasoning to taste.

What Does Grilled Corn Go Well With?

Grilled corn pairs well with a variety of dishes and ingredients, complementing the smoky sweetness of the corn. Here are a few suggestions for what grilled corn goes well with:

• Grilled Meats: Grilled corn is a fantastic side dish for various grilled meats such as steak, chicken, pork chops, or burgers. The combination of smoky flavors from both the corn and the meat creates a delicious and satisfying meal.
• Barbecue Fare: If you’re hosting a barbecue, grilled corn is a classic accompaniment to barbecue ribs, pulled pork, brisket, or smoked sausages. The sweetness of the corn provides a nice contrast to the savory and tangy flavors of the barbecue.
• Salads: Grilled corn can be a fantastic addition to salads. Toss it with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, avocado, and a tangy vinaigrette for a refreshing summer salad. You can also use grilled corn in grain salads, adding it to quinoa or couscous along with vegetables, herbs, and a light dressing.
• Salsa and Dips: Grilled corn can be used to make delicious salsas and dips. Combine grilled corn kernels with diced tomatoes, onions, jalapeños, cilantro, lime juice, and spices to create a flavorful corn salsa. It can be enjoyed with tortilla chips or used as a topping for grilled meats or tacos.
• Mexican and Tex-Mex Dishes: Grilled corn is a staple ingredient in many Mexican and Tex-Mex dishes. Use it in recipes like Mexican street corn (elote), where the grilled corn is brushed with mayonnaise, sprinkled with cheese and chili powder, and served with lime wedges. Grilled corn can also be added to tacos, enchiladas, quesadillas, or Mexican-style rice for added flavor and texture.
• Seafood: Grilled corn makes a wonderful side dish for grilled or roasted seafood. Serve it alongside grilled shrimp, fish fillets, lobster tails, or scallops. The sweetness of the corn complements the delicate flavors of seafood.
• Summer Cookout Foods: Grilled corn is a staple at summer cookouts and can be enjoyed alongside other classic barbecue and picnic foods. It pairs well with coleslaw, baked beans, potato salad, grilled vegetables, and watermelon.

Remember, the versatility of grilled corn allows you to experiment and combine it with various dishes based on your preferences and culinary creativity. Enjoy the flavors of summer with grilled corn as a delightful addition to your meals.