Traeger Smoked Corn on the Cob
As summer rolls in and the days stretch longer, there’s nothing quite like the joy of biting into a warm ear of corn fresh off the grill. That’s why I’m thrilled to share my take on Traeger Smoked Corn on the Cob. Picture this: a sunny afternoon, laughter echoing from the backyard, and the enticing aroma of sweet corn mingling with the smoky essence of the grill. It’s a simple dish, yet it seems to elevate every gathering, drawing friends and family together around the table. The best part? This recipe is not just about the corn; it’s about the love and memories we create while preparing and sharing it.
Every summer, I eagerly await the arrival of fresh corn at the farmers’ market. There’s something special about selecting the perfect ears, feeling the husks, and imagining how they will taste once grilled. Smothered in vibrant green pesto, the corn takes on a whole new life, marrying the sweetness of the corn with the herbal notes of the pesto. It’s an elegant yet casual dish that truly captures the essence of summer dining.
Whether you’re serving it at a backyard barbecue or enjoying a quiet evening on your porch, Traeger Smoked Corn on the Cob brings warmth and a sense of togetherness that’s hard to replicate. So grab your apron, and let’s get cooking! You’re going to love how easy and delicious this dish is.
Recipe Snapshot
35 mins
5 mins
30 mins
Easy
150 kcal
5 g
Keto, Paleo, Whole30
4 g
Traeger Pellet Grill Ironwood 885, Traeger Mesquite Pellets
What’s Great About This Traeger Smoked Corn on the Cob
1. The Smoky Flavor
The essence of grilling is all about the flavors that infuse into the food. When you smoke corn on your Traeger, the natural sweetness of the corn pairs beautifully with the rich, smoky undertones. The Traeger allows for a controlled, consistent heat that enhances the corn’s natural sugars, making each bite a delightful experience.
2. Fresh Ingredients
Using fresh, high-quality ingredients is crucial in making this dish shine. Sweet corn, harvested at its peak, is tender and bursting with flavor. The addition of homemade or high-quality pesto not only complements the corn but also elevates it to gourmet status. You can really taste the difference when you use fresh ingredients.
3. Perfect for Gatherings
There’s something about serving corn on the cob that invites joy and laughter. It’s a communal food, meant to be shared and enjoyed together. Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a festive barbecue, Traeger Smoked Corn on the Cob fits perfectly into any gathering, bringing people together around the grill.
4. Versatility
This dish is incredibly versatile. You can serve it as a side with grilled chicken, steak, or even alongside a fresh salad. It can also be dressed up with additional toppings like cheese, spices, or herbs. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to customize it to suit your taste and occasion.
5. Simple Preparation
One of my favorite aspects of this recipe is its simplicity. With just a few steps, you get a dish that’s full of flavor. The preparation involves minimal effort and time, making it a perfect quick option for busy days when you still want to enjoy a delicious meal.
6. Seasonal Delight
Summer is the perfect season for corn on the cob, and this recipe highlights the freshness of the season. As corn is in peak season, it’s an ideal time to make the most of it. Enjoy this dish while you can, and savor those summer memories!
Ingredients You’ll Need for Traeger Smoked Corn on the Cob
For this delightful dish, we’ll be using just a couple of key ingredients that highlight the fresh and smoky flavors. The sweet corn is the star of the show, bringing natural sweetness and juiciness. The pesto adds a burst of herbal richness that elevates the corn to new heights. Together, these ingredients create a simple yet stunning dish that everyone will love.
- 4 ears of sweet corn, husked
- ½ cup pesto
Step by Step Instructions for Traeger Smoked Corn on the Cob
Making Traeger Smoked Corn on the Cob is a breeze! Follow these simple steps to create a dish that’s sure to impress. Each step is designed to ensure that your corn is perfectly smoked and seasoned, bringing out the best flavors. Let’s dive in!
- Start by lining up the husked corn on a rimmed baking sheet. This helps keep things tidy and makes it easy to coat all the ears evenly with the pesto.
- Generously spread the fresh pesto all over each ear of corn, ensuring they are well-coated. The pesto will add a rich flavor that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the corn.
- Now, it’s time to preheat your Traeger pellet grill to 250°F. Make sure it’s nice and hot before you add the corn. You want that smoky flavor to really penetrate into the corn.
- Once your grill is preheated, place the pesto-covered corn directly on the grill grates. This allows for even cooking and smoking.
- Smoke the corn for about 30 minutes, or until it becomes tender when pierced with a fork. Keep an eye on the corn, as cooking times can vary slightly depending on your grill.
- When the corn is ready, carefully remove it from the grill using tongs. The corn should have a lovely smoky color, and the pesto will have created a delicious crust.
- Serve immediately while it’s still warm. Enjoy the smoky, herb-infused flavors of this delicious summer side dish!
Things Worth Knowing
- Choose the Right Corn: Fresh, sweet corn is essential for this recipe. Look for ears that are plump and firm, with bright green husks.
- Storage: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can be enjoyed cold or reheated on the grill.
- Experiment with Pesto: While basil pesto is classic, feel free to experiment with different types of pesto, such as sun-dried tomato or arugula for a unique flavor twist.
- Grill Temperature: While 250°F works great for smoking, you can also increase the temperature to 350°F for faster cooking if you’re in a hurry.
Ways to Adapt This Recipe
If you like to get creative in the kitchen, here are some tips to adapt Traeger Smoked Corn on the Cob to fit your taste and occasions:
- Storage: Properly store any leftover smoked corn in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat on the grill or stovetop.
- Freezing: You can freeze cooked corn on the cob for later use. Wrap each ear tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag.
- Pairing: This dish pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, fresh salads, or even a light pasta dish. It makes a fantastic side for any summer gathering!
- Flavor Variations: Consider adding spices like chili powder or smoked paprika to the pesto for an extra kick.
- Cheese Topping: For an added layer of flavor, sprinkle grated parmesan or feta cheese over the smoked corn just before serving.
What to Serve With Traeger Smoked Corn on the Cob
Serving Traeger Smoked Corn on the Cob opens up a world of culinary possibilities. Here are some ideas to make your meal complete:
- Grilled Chicken: The smoky flavor of the corn complements grilled chicken perfectly, making for a delightful summer meal.
- Steaks: Serve alongside juicy steaks for a hearty dinner that’s sure to impress.
- Summer Salads: Pair with a refreshing salad that can balance the richness of the pesto.
- Picnics: Bring this dish to picnics or barbecues; it’s easy to transport and serve.
- Light Lunch: Enjoy the corn by itself as a light lunch option or a healthy snack.
- Seasonal Events: Perfect for summer celebrations like the Fourth of July or family reunions.
FAQ
Conclusion
Traeger Smoked Corn on the Cob is a delightful summer dish that combines the sweetness of corn with the rich flavors of pesto, making it a must-try for your next outdoor gathering. This simple yet flavorful recipe highlights the joys of summer cooking and brings people together around the grill. Don’t miss out on this easy-to-make dish that will impress your friends and family!
So, why not fire up that grill and give it a go? You won’t regret it!
Traeger Smoked Corn on the Cob
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Line up the husked corn on a rimmed baking sheet.
- Generously spread the fresh pesto all over each ear of corn, ensuring they are well-coated.
- Preheat your Traeger pellet grill to 250°F. (note: I have also smoked these are 350 with great results, obviously they will cook faster).
- Place the pesto-covered corn directly on the grill grates and smoke for about 30 minutes, or until the corn is tender when pierced with a fork.
- Remove the corn from the grill and serve immediately.
- Enjoy the smoky, herb-infused flavors of this delicious summer side dish!
Notes
- Tip 1: Properly store any leftover smoked corn in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat on the grill or stovetop.
- Tip 2: You can freeze cooked corn on the cob for later use. Wrap each ear tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag.
- Tip 3: This dish pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, fresh salads, or even a light pasta dish. It makes a fantastic side for any summer gathering!
- Tip 4: Consider adding spices like chili powder or smoked paprika to the pesto for an extra kick.
- Tip 5: For an added layer of flavor, sprinkle grated parmesan or feta cheese over the smoked corn just before serving.
