There’s something incredibly satisfying about biting into a perfectly grilled ear of corn, especially during those lazy summer afternoons. That’s why I absolutely love Grilled Corn on the Cob. The sweet, juicy kernels paired with the rich, creamy basil butter create a flavor explosion that’s hard to resist. I remember the first time I made this dish for my friends during a backyard barbecue. We were all gathered around the grill, laughing and sharing stories, when I pulled off the husks to reveal the beautifully charred corn. The aroma of the grilled corn mingling with the fresh basil was heavenly and instantly made everyone’s mouths water. Each bite brought a rush of nostalgia, reminding me of childhood summers spent at picnics and fairs, where corn on the cob was always the star of the show.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
60 mins

Prep Time:
0 mins

Cook Time:
0 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
120 kcal

Protein:
3 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
2 g

Tools Used:
Mixing Bowl, Peeler

Why This Grilled Corn on the Cob Shines

Flavorful and Fresh

One of the key reasons I adore Grilled Corn on the Cob is because it celebrates the essence of summer. The sweetness of the corn is enhanced by the grill’s smoky flavor, creating a delightful contrast. Each bite bursts with freshness, making it an irresistible side dish for any summer meal.

Easy to Prepare

You don’t have to be a gourmet chef to make this dish. With just a few simple steps, you can impress your family and friends. Soaking the corn, grilling it, and whipping up that basil butter hardly takes any time at all. It’s perfect for those spontaneous get-togethers!

Versatile Dish

Another reason this recipe stands out is its versatility. You can enjoy it as a side dish, snack, or even as part of a main course. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats, salads, or just on its own. You can even customize the butter by adding herbs or spices to suit your taste.

Fun for Everyone

Grilled corn on the cob brings people together. It’s a dish that invites sharing; you can pass around the butter and let everyone spread it on their corn as they please. It’s a fun, interactive way to enjoy a meal, making it even more memorable.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, having a picnic, or just enjoying a quiet dinner at home, Grilled Corn on the Cob is a perfect addition. It’s light, satisfying, and embodies the spirit of summer all in one dish!

What Goes Into Grilled Corn on the Cob

When it comes to making Grilled Corn on the Cob, the ingredients are simple yet powerful. The magic happens with fresh, sweet corn, rich butter, fragrant basil, and a hint of cayenne pepper to add a little kick. Together, they create a dish that’s brimming with flavor and perfect for any summer gathering.

6-8 ears of corn on the cob, in husks: Fresh corn is the star of this dish. Choose ears that feel firm and have bright green husks.
1 stick salted butter, at room temperature: The creamy texture of butter helps to create a luscious spread for the corn.
2 tablespoons minced fresh basil: Basil adds an aromatic, herbal flavor that complements the sweetness of the corn.
2-3 pinches cayenne pepper: A little bit of cayenne gives the dish a delightful kick without overpowering the natural flavors.
Sea salt, to taste: Enhances the overall flavor profile.

How to Cook Grilled Corn on the Cob

Cooking Grilled Corn on the Cob is a straightforward process that anyone can master. Let’s start with soaking the corn to ensure it stays juicy and flavorful while grilling. You’ll be pleased at how simple the steps are, and soon you’ll be enjoying delicious, smoky corn in no time.

Soak your corn on the cob in cool water for about half an hour. This soaking process helps to keep the corn moist during grilling, ensuring each bite is juicy and tender.
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. You want the grill to be hot enough to give the corn those beautiful char marks while cooking it through.
Grill corn, turning it every two to three minutes for about twelve to fifteen minutes. Look for the husks to become charred and the kernels to steam inside, turning a bright yellow.
While the corn is grilling, mix the softened butter with the minced basil and cayenne. This will create a delicious spread that will elevate your grilled corn.
Add a bit of sea salt to the butter mixture, to taste. This enhances the flavors and ties everything together.
Once the corn is grilled to perfection, pull back the husks (the silk will peel away with them) and spread a generous amount of the basil butter over the hot corn. The warmth of the corn helps melt the butter, creating a delightful topping.
Serve immediately, allowing your guests to enjoy the corn while it’s still hot. The aroma of the grilled corn will have everyone gathering around!

Things Worth Knowing

Soaking the corn: Soaking helps to keep the corn hydrated, preventing it from drying out on the grill.
Grilling time: Watch the corn closely; overcooking can lead to tough kernels. Aim for the bright yellow color.
Butter temperature: Make sure the butter is at room temperature for easy mixing with the basil and cayenne.
Serving tip: Offer extra basil butter on the side for those who want an extra burst of flavor!

Ways to Adapt This Recipe

If you’re looking to get creative, here are some fun adaptations for Grilled Corn on the Cob. Each variation can bring a new twist to this classic dish, making it fun and exciting for any occasion.

Experiment with spices: Try adding garlic powder, smoked paprika, or even lime zest to the butter for a unique flavor profile.
Herbed variations: Mix in different herbs like parsley, cilantro, or dill for a fresh take.
Cheesy twist: After grilling, sprinkle grated cheese like feta or cotija on top for a savory finish.
Sweet addition: Brush the corn with honey or maple syrup before grilling for a sweet glaze.
Storage: Store leftover corn in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
Freezing: You can freeze grilled corn on the cob for a quick side dish later. Just wrap it tightly to prevent freezer burn.
Pairing: This corn pairs beautifully with grilled meats, summer salads, or even in a fresh salsa.

How to Serve Grilled Corn on the Cob

When it comes to serving Grilled Corn on the Cob, the possibilities are endless. It’s a dish that brings joy and is perfect for any meal. Here are some serving suggestions:

Serve with grilled meats: This corn is the perfect side for barbecue chicken, steaks, or ribs.
Ideal for summer picnics: Pack it up for a picnic in the park or a day at the beach.
Perfect for summer parties: Set up a corn bar at your next gathering where guests can customize their toppings.
Garnish ideas: Consider adding fresh herbs or crumbled cheese for added flavor and texture.
Leftovers: Store any leftover corn in the fridge and enjoy it in salads or as a snack.
Great for lunch: Use the grilled corn in a fresh salad or wrap for a tasty lunch option.
Seasonal occasions: This dish is perfect for summer events like Fourth of July, family reunions, or any outdoor gathering.

FAQ

For the best flavor and texture, look for fresh, sweet corn on the cob. When selecting corn, choose ears with bright green husks and plump kernels. If possible, try to find locally grown corn as it’s often harvested at its peak sweetness. Avoid corn that appears dry or has brown spots on the husk, as these may indicate it’s past its prime.

The corn is ready when the husks are charred and the kernels have turned a bright yellow color. You should also be able to smell the delicious aroma of grilling corn. It usually takes about twelve to fifteen minutes, turning every two to three minutes to ensure even cooking. If you’re unsure, you can always pull one ear off the grill and check for doneness!

Absolutely! You can prepare the basil butter in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just mix the softened butter with basil and cayenne and place it in an airtight container. When you’re ready to use it, simply take it out, let it sit at room temperature for a bit, and then spread it over your grilled corn. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

While fresh corn on the cob is ideal for grilling, you can use frozen corn if necessary. Just make sure to thaw it completely and drain any excess moisture before grilling. Keep in mind that using frozen corn may result in a slightly different texture and flavor, so try to use fresh when you can!

Conclusion

The beauty of Grilled Corn on the Cob lies in its simplicity and flavor. With just a few fresh ingredients, you can create a dish that truly captures the essence of summer. I encourage you to try it out at your next barbecue or picnic; it’s sure to be a hit! You’ll love sharing this delightful dish with friends and family, and I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out.

Grilled Corn on the Cob

Enjoy a taste of summer with Grilled Corn on the Cob. This dish features sweet, juicy corn grilled to perfection and topped with rich basil butter. Easy to make, it’s the ideal side for any summer meal. Make it tonight!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Side Dishes

Cuisine: American

Calories: 120

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

6-8 ears Corn on the cob in husks
1 stick Salted butter at room temperature
2 tablespoons Minced fresh basil
2-3 pinches Cayenne pepper
to taste Sea salt

Equipment

Mixing Bowl
Peeler

Method

Soak your corn on the cob in cool water for about half an hour.
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
Grill corn, turning every two to three minutes for about twelve to fifteen minutes.
Mix softened butter with basil and cayenne.
Add a bit of salt, to taste.
Pull back husks of cooked corn and spread basil butter over hot corn.
Serve immediately.

Notes

Storage: Store leftover corn in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
Freezing: You can freeze grilled corn on the cob for a quick side dish later.
Pairing: This corn pairs beautifully with grilled meats, salads, or even in a fresh salsa.