Garlic-Herb Butter Roasted Corn

Garlic-Herb Butter Roasted Corn is a delightful dish that elevates ordinary corn into a flavorful side. Perfect for barbecues, picnics, or family dinners, this recipe combines the rich taste of garlic and herbs with sweet corn. With just 15 minutes of cooking time, you can enjoy tender, roasted corn slathered in a mouthwatering garlic-herb butter that makes every bite irresistible.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish takes only 15 minutes to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Flavorful Boost: The combination of garlic and herbs adds a delicious depth to the corn, enhancing its natural sweetness.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a side dish at barbecues, as part of a vegetarian meal, or even sliced into salads for extra flavor.
• Customizable: Feel free to adjust the herbs and spices according to your preference. Add chili flakes for heat or cheese for richness.
• Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh ingredients ensures vibrant flavors that are better than store-bought alternatives.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making Garlic-Herb Butter Roasted Corn, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline the process and make cooking more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Cast-iron grill pan
• Pot for boiling
• Mixing bowl
• Basting brush

Importance of Each Tool

• Cast-iron grill pan: This tool helps achieve that perfect char on the corn, enhancing both texture and flavor.
• Pot for boiling: Boiling the corn first ensures it cooks evenly and becomes tender before roasting.
• Mixing bowl: An essential tool to combine your garlic-herb butter ingredients thoroughly.
• Basting brush: Use this to generously apply the garlic-herb butter mixture onto each ear of corn for maximum flavor.

Ingredients

For the Garlic-Herb Butter

• 3 tablespoons salted butter (melted)
• 1 teaspoon parsley leaves (chopped)
• 1 clove garlic (finely minced)
• 1 tablespoon honey

For the Corn

• 3 ears corn (cut into 2-inch pieces)
• Paprika (optional)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Garlic-Herb Butter Roasted Corn

Step 1: Prepare the Garlic-Herb Butter Mixture

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, chopped parsley, minced garlic, and honey.
2. Stir until all ingredients are well combined.

Step 2: Cook the Corn

1. Bring a pot of water to a boil.
2. Add the corn pieces and cook for about 5 minutes until they are tender.
3. Drain the corn carefully.

Step 3: Roast the Corn

1. Brush each ear of corn generously with the garlic-herb butter mixture.
2. Heat your cast-iron grill pan over high heat.
3. Place the corn on the grill pan and roast for about 5 minutes or until slightly charred on all sides.

Step 4: Final Touches

1. If desired, drizzle paprika over the roasted corn for added flavor.
2. Serve immediately while hot!

Enjoy your delicious Garlic-Herb Butter Roasted Corn as a standout side dish at any gathering!

How to Serve Garlic-Herb Butter Roasted Corn

Garlic-Herb Butter Roasted Corn is a delightful dish that can be paired with various options for an exquisite meal. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or enjoying a family dinner, these serving suggestions will elevate your corn experience.

As a Standalone Snack

• Enjoy the corn on its own as a flavorful snack. The garlic-herb butter adds a rich taste that is perfect for munching.

On a Salad

• Add sliced roasted corn to your favorite salad. It enhances freshness and brings an unexpected twist to classic greens.

With Grilled Meats

• Serve alongside grilled chicken or steak. The robust flavors of the corn complement the smokiness of grilled meats perfectly.

In Tacos

• Incorporate the roasted corn into tacos for added sweetness and texture. Pair it with black beans and avocado for a nutritious filling.

As Part of a Platter

• Include garlic-herb butter roasted corn in a vegetable platter. This makes for an attractive presentation at gatherings or parties.

With Dips

• Pair it with creamy dips like ranch or guacamole. Dipping adds an interactive element that everyone will enjoy.

How to Perfect Garlic-Herb Butter Roasted Corn

To make sure your Garlic-Herb Butter Roasted Corn turns out delicious every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Corn – Fresh corn on the cob will provide the best flavor and sweetness compared to frozen or canned options.
• Adjust Butter Amount – Feel free to adjust the amount of garlic-herb butter to suit your taste preference. More butter means more flavor!
• Experiment with Spices – Try adding other spices like chili powder or cumin to create different flavor profiles.
• Ensure Even Cooking – When using a grill pan, rotate the corn frequently to achieve even charring on all sides.
• Let it Rest – Allow the cooked corn to rest for a minute before serving. This lets flavors meld together beautifully.
• Add Cheese – For extra indulgence, sprinkle some crumbled feta or cotija cheese over the roasted corn right before serving.

Best Side Dishes for Garlic-Herb Butter Roasted Corn

Garlic-Herb Butter Roasted Corn pairs well with several side dishes that complement its rich flavors. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Grilled Vegetables – A mix of zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus adds color and nutrition.
2. Potato Salad – Creamy potato salad offers a contrasting texture and balance to the sweet corn.
3. Coleslaw – The crunchiness of coleslaw provides a refreshing side that pairs well with grilled foods.
4. Rice Pilaf – Fluffy rice pilaf can soak up any juices from grilled meats while enhancing your meal’s heartiness.
5. Cucumber Salad – Light and refreshing, this salad cools down the palate between bites of flavorful corn.
6. Baked Beans – Sweet and smoky baked beans complement the savory notes of garlic-herb butter roasted corn beautifully.
7. Cornbread – For true corn lovers, cornbread serves as an ideal pairing that enhances the overall experience.
8. Macaroni and Cheese – Creamy mac and cheese makes for a comforting side dish that everyone loves!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Garlic-Herb Butter Roasted Corn, avoiding common pitfalls can enhance your dish’s flavor and presentation.

• Using cold butter: Always use melted butter for the garlic-herb mixture. Cold butter won’t mix well with the other ingredients and may clump on the corn.
• Overcooking the corn: Cooking corn for too long can make it tough. Boil it for only 5 minutes before roasting to keep it tender and juicy.
• Skipping the charring step: Charring adds a great depth of flavor. Don’t skip roasting on the grill pan or oven; it creates that perfect smoky taste.
• Not seasoning enough: Garlic and herbs need a good balance. Don’t be shy with seasonings, as they greatly enhance the overall flavor profile of your dish.
• Ignoring freshness: Fresh corn tastes best. Use fresh ears of corn rather than frozen or canned for optimal flavor and texture.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Garlic-Herb Butter Roasted Corn

• Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Garlic-Herb Butter Roasted Corn

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Bake for about 10 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals (30 seconds), checking often to avoid overcooking.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a little butter and reheat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I customize Garlic-Herb Butter Roasted Corn?

You can add different herbs like basil or cilantro for varied flavors. Adding cheese or spices like chili powder can also enhance the dish.

Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh?

Yes, but fresh corn gives the best flavor and texture. If using frozen, ensure it’s fully thawed before cooking.

What are some side dishes that pair well with Garlic-Herb Butter Roasted Corn?

This dish pairs nicely with grilled meats, salads, or even as part of a picnic spread.

How do I ensure my Garlic-Herb Butter is flavorful?

Make sure your ingredients are fresh, especially the garlic and herbs. Allow them to mix well before applying to the corn.

Final Thoughts

Garlic-Herb Butter Roasted Corn is a simple yet delicious dish that showcases summer’s fresh flavors. Its versatility means you can easily customize it according to your taste preferences. Whether enjoyed at a barbecue or as a side for dinner, this recipe is sure to impress!