Grilled Corn Recipe

There’s something incredibly satisfying about sinking your teeth into the sweet, smoky kernels of perfectly grilled corn—it’s like summer wrapped up in a husk! 🌽✨

The simple, but solid, flavor of corn grilled over a fire is one I adore. My preferred way to enjoy it involves brushing the fresh ears with some olive oil, adding a little salt and a bit of black pepper, melted butter, and finishing it with a touch of fresh cilantro, just before I take a big bite and juice squirts everywhere.

That taste is so right.

Grilled Corn Recipe Ingredients

• Fresh Corn: A good source of carbohydrates and fiber, with natural sweetness.
• Olive Oil: Rich in healthy monounsaturated fats, it enhances flavor.
• Salt: Enhances taste, balancing the sweetness of corn.
• Black Pepper: Adds a hint of spice, boosting overall flavor.
• Butter: Adds rich creaminess, enhancing texture and taste.
• Fresh Cilantro: Adds fresh herbal notes, offering a touch of citrusy aroma.
• Lime: Provides a refreshing, tangy contrast with brightness.

Grilled Corn Recipe Ingredient Quantities

• 4 ears of fresh corn, husked
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
• 1 lime, cut into wedges (optional)

How to Make this Grilled Corn Recipe

1. Get your grill to a medium-high heat before you start cooking.

2. Evenly coat the ears of corn with olive oil. Be sure to apply the oil thoroughly so that it gets on every part of the corn.

3. Spice the corn with salt and pepper.

4. Position the corn straight onto the grill grates.

5. Cooking the corn on the grill requires around 10 to 15 minutes, with the cook occasionally turning the corn to ensure that it chars and cooks evenly.

6. Take the corn off the grill and set it on a platter for serving.

7. Grilled corn brushed with melted butter offers a flavor-packed, rich side dish. Pair it with chili powder, and it becomes the perfect complement to just about any vegetable or protein dish. Try it slathered across a sweet potato; it works like a charm.

8. When using, chop and add fresh cilantro to the corn for a burst of freshness.

9. Accompany the corn with lime wedges on the side. Just before eating, squeeze the limes over the top.

10. Savor the grilled corn as a delightful accompaniment or nibble.

Grilled Corn Recipe Equipment Needed

1. Grill
2. Tongs
3. Pastry brush
4. Knife
5. Cutting board
6. Platter or serving dish
7. Small bowl or microwave-safe container (for melting butter)
8. Spoon (for spreading butter)
9. Measuring spoons (for olive oil, salt, and pepper)

FAQ

• Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh?Grilling is best done with fresh corn; however, frozen corn will suffice in a pinch. If you use frozen corn, ensure it is thawed and dried completely before grilling.
• What’s the best way to husk corn?Strip the outer layers and dislodge the threads that hang on the corn. For a more civilized method of cooking corn on the grill, leave the outer layers on and soak them in water.
• How long should I grill the corn?Corn should be grilled for approximately 10-15 minutes, with periodic turning, until tender and just this side of burnt.
• Do I need to soak the corn before grilling?Optional soaking can prevent the husks from catching fire if grilling with them on, but it is not necessary. Most of the time, we grill with dry planks, tubs, or baskets of produce. We also add flavor with the grill fire itself.
• Can I add other spices?Yes, you can safely play around with flavoring spices such as paprika or chili powder for an extra kick.
• How do I know when the corn is done?The kernels should be tender and easily pierced with a fork. You should see some char marks on the kernels.
• What can I use instead of cilantro?Fresh parsley, basil, or even the omission of those herbs can be used as substitutes for a milder flavor.

Grilled Corn Recipe Substitutions and Variations

Avocado oil: Use a different flavor profile with melted coconut oil or avocado oil.
Salt: Employ sea salt, kosher salt, or garlic salt to give flavor an extra boost.
Black pepper can be exchanged for white pepper or, for an even spicier option, cayenne pepper.
Butter: Use ghee or a plant-based butter alternative for lactose-free versions.
Cilantro: If not preferred, use parsley or basil.

Pro Tips

1. Pre-soak the Corn: Before grilling, consider soaking the ears of corn in cold water for about 15 to 20 minutes. This helps retain moisture during grilling and prevents the husks from burning if you choose to grill them with the husks on.