Few things scream summer like the smoky aroma of grilled corn on the cob wafting through the air. Whether you're throwing a backyard barbecue, camping under the stars, or just craving a pop of sweet and charred flavor, grilled corn is the perfect side dish. This simple yet delicious recipe will help you master the art of grilling corn, complete with tips and ideas for seasoning to make it truly your own.
Ingredients
To get started, you'll need just a handful of ingredients:
- 4 ears of fresh corn, husked
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
- Salt, to taste
- Ground black pepper, to taste
Optional Toppings and Add-Ons
- Lime wedges for squeezing
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Chili powder or smoked paprika
- Fresh chopped herbs (like cilantro or parsley)
- Crumbled feta or cotija cheese
- Garlic butter
Feel free to get creative here! Grilled corn is a blank canvas for bold flavors.
Instructions
Follow these easy steps to achieve perfectly grilled corn every time:
1. Preheat Your Grill
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375°F-400°F). If you're using a charcoal grill, allow the coals to turn white and evenly distribute the heat.
2. Prep the Corn
Start by husking the corn, removing all the leaves and as much silk as possible. Give the ears a quick rinse to remove any stubborn silk. Pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel.
3. Apply Oil or Butter
Brush each ear of corn with olive oil or melted butter. This step helps the kernels caramelize beautifully while grilling and prevents sticking. Sprinkle with a pinch of salt and pepper for a simple and classic flavor.
4. Grill to Perfection
Place the corn directly on the grill grates. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure all sides get evenly charred. You're aiming for a mix of golden brown and slightly blackened spots for a smoky, sweet flavor.
5. Add Toppings and Serve
Remove the corn from the grill and give it a final brush of butter or olive oil, if desired. This is also the time to add your favorite toppings. Dust with Parmesan, sprinkle on chili powder, squeeze fresh lime juice, or scatter chopped herbs. Serve immediately and enjoy that irresistible combination of sweetness and smokiness.
Tips for Perfect Grilled Corn
Leave the Husk On for Variation: For a more steamed effect, you can partially peel back the husks (leaving them attached), remove the silk, then fold the husks back up. Soak the corn in water for about 15 minutes before grilling. The husks will protect the kernels and add a subtle smoky flavor.
Get the Char Just Right: Don't be afraid of a bit of char! Rotate the ears frequently to avoid overburning any single side while letting the sweet kernels caramelize.
Use Compound Butters: Elevate the flavor with a flavored butter made from softened butter mixed with garlic, herbs, spices, or citrus zest.
Serving Suggestions
Grilled corn pairs beautifully with BBQ favorites like burgers, ribs, or grilled chicken. It’s also a fantastic addition to salads, tacos, or bowls. You can even cut the kernels off and mix them into salsas or pasta dishes for extra texture and flavor.
Once you’ve grilled your own corn on the cob, there’s no going back. Its smoky aroma, juicy crunch, and endless topping possibilities make it a dish worthy of any summer table. Give it a try and feel free to experiment with flavors to make it your signature side!
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