Grilled Corn on the Cob

Grilled Corn on the Cob is a summer staple that brings a delightful burst of sweetness and flavor to your outdoor gatherings. With its buttery, sweet, and slightly spicy honey sriracha butter glaze, this recipe will elevate your cookouts and impress guests. Perfect for barbecues, picnics, or even a simple weeknight dinner, this dish stands out with its easy preparation and mouthwatering taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe requires just 15 minutes from prep to plate, making it a fantastic choice for busy days.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of honey and sriracha creates a unique sweet-spicy glaze that enhances the natural sweetness of grilled corn.
• Versatile Side Dish: Serve it alongside meats, or as a standalone snack. It’s perfect for any occasion!
• Healthy Choice: Low in calories yet high in flavor, this grilled corn will satisfy your cravings without guilt.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re hosting friends or family, everyone loves the charred goodness of corn on the cob!

Tools and Preparation

To make Grilled Corn on the Cob, you’ll need some essential tools that streamline the cooking process. Having the right equipment can make all the difference.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Outdoor grill
• Grill brush
• Basting brush
• Microwave-safe bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Outdoor grill: This is key for achieving that perfect char and smoky flavor that makes grilled corn irresistible.
• Basting brush: Helps evenly distribute the honey sriracha butter over the corn for maximum flavor.
• Microwave-safe bowl: Ideal for melting butter quickly without fuss.

Ingredients

Honey Sriracha Butter Grilled Corn – buttery, sweet and slightly spicy grilled corns with honey sriracha butter. So easy and so good!

For the Corn

• 4 ears corn (bearded and husk removed)
• 4 tablespoons honey sriracha butter (melted)

For Garnish

• Lemon wedges (optional)

How to Make Grilled Corn on the Cob

Step 1: Prepare the Butter

1. Melt the Honey Sriracha Butter in a microwave-safe bowl until fully liquid.
2. Brush a generous amount of melted butter onto each ear of corn using your basting brush.

Step 2: Grill the Corn

1. Preheat your outdoor grill to medium heat.
2. Place the prepared corn on the grill.
3. Grill for about 10 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure even cooking and slight charring.
4. While grilling, continue to brush additional honey sriracha butter onto the corn for extra flavor.

Step 3: Serve

1. Once cooked, remove from grill.
2. Serve warm as is or with lemon wedges for added zest if desired. Enjoy your delicious Grilled Corn on the Cob!

How to Serve Grilled Corn on the Cob

Grilled corn on the cob is a delightful dish that’s perfect for summer barbecues or casual dinners. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your grilled corn experience.

With Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Cilantro – Sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro over your grilled corn for a burst of freshness.
• Basil Pesto Drizzle – A light drizzle of basil pesto adds a rich flavor that complements the sweetness of the corn.

Topped with Cheese

• Feta Crumbles – Add crumbled feta cheese for a creamy and tangy contrast.
• Parmesan Shavings – Freshly shaved Parmesan can enhance the savory notes of the grilled corn.

Spiced Up

• Chili Powder – Dust some chili powder on top for an extra kick of heat.
• Lime Zest – A sprinkle of lime zest brightens up the flavor profile and adds a citrusy aroma.

How to Perfect Grilled Corn on the Cob

Perfecting grilled corn on the cob is simple with just a few tips. Follow these guidelines for optimal results.

• Choose Fresh Corn – Always opt for fresh, in-season corn for the sweetest flavor.
• Pre-soak Corn – Soaking the corn in water for 30 minutes before grilling helps prevent it from drying out.
• Rotate Regularly – Turn the corn every few minutes while grilling to achieve even cooking and charring.
• Use High Heat – Make sure your grill is hot enough to create those beautiful grill marks without overcooking.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Corn on the Cob

Grilled corn on the cob pairs well with many side dishes, making it a versatile addition to any meal. Here are some tasty options to consider.

1. Caprese Salad – A refreshing mix of tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze.
2. Coleslaw – Crunchy cabbage slaw provides a crisp contrast to the soft grilled corn.
3. Potato Salad – Creamy potato salad complements the smoky flavors of grilled corn beautifully.
4. Garlic Bread – Toasted garlic bread adds a savory touch that pairs well with sweet corn.
5. Grilled Veggies – A medley of grilled vegetables enhances your barbecue spread with vibrant colors and flavors.
6. Quinoa Salad – A healthy quinoa salad loaded with veggies offers protein-packed goodness next to your grilled treat.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Grilling corn on the cob can be simple, but small mistakes can lead to unsatisfying results. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid.

• Skipping the soaking step: Not soaking your corn before grilling can lead to dryness. Soaking helps keep the corn moist and enhances its flavor during grilling.

• Grilling without seasoning: Forgetting to apply honey sriracha butter before grilling means missing out on flavor. Always brush the butter generously for a tasty outcome.

• Overcooking the corn: Overcooked corn becomes tough and chewy. Aim for about 10 minutes on medium heat, turning regularly to achieve perfect tenderness.

• Neglecting rotation: Failing to rotate the corn while it’s grilling can cause uneven cooking. Rotate every couple of minutes for even charring and cooking.

• Skipping lemon juice: Omitting lemon juice from your grilled corn can miss an opportunity for added brightness. A squeeze of lemon elevates the flavors wonderfully.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover grilled corn in an airtight container.
• It can last in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Make sure it cools down before sealing it in the container.

Freezing Grilled Corn on the Cob

• Wrap each ear of grilled corn tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Grilled corn will stay good for up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Grilled Corn on the Cob

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap the corn in foil and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

• Microwave: Place corn on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.

• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a little butter and place the corn in the skillet, cooking for about 5-7 minutes while rotating occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I choose fresh corn for grilling?

Look for ears that are plump with bright green husks and moist silk at the top. Avoid any that appear dried out or have brown spots.

Can I use frozen corn for this recipe?

While fresh is best, you can use frozen corn if thawed and patted dry beforehand. Adjust grilling time as needed since it may cook faster.

What is honey sriracha butter?

Honey sriracha butter is a blend of melted butter, honey, and sriracha sauce, creating a sweet and spicy topping perfect for grilled corn on the cob.

How long does grilled corn on the cob last?

When stored properly, grilled corn can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator and up to 3 months in the freezer.

Can I customize my grilled corn toppings?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different seasonings like garlic powder, parmesan cheese, or lime juice based on your preference.

Final Thoughts

This Grilled Corn on the Cob recipe is not just delicious; it’s incredibly versatile too! With its buttery sweetness balanced by a hint of spice, it’s perfect as a side dish or snack. Personalize it with your favorite toppings or spices, making it uniquely yours. Give this easy recipe a try at your next barbecue!