Garlic Butter Grilled Corn

Discover the ultimate summer side dish with Garlic Butter Grilled Corn on the Cob! This easy recipe transforms fresh corn into a flavorful delight, perfect for barbecues and outdoor gatherings. Enjoy the rich garlic butter that enhances the corn’s natural sweetness, complemented by the grill’s smokiness. This dish is suitable for family dinners, picnics, or any festive occasion. The standout qualities of this recipe include its simplicity, incredible flavor, and ability to elevate any meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This Garlic Butter Grilled Corn recipe requires minimal ingredients and steps, making it perfect for even novice cooks.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of garlic and butter creates a rich taste that enhances the sweetness of the corn.
• Versatile Side Dish: Perfect for summer barbecues, picnics, or casual family dinners—pair it with any main course.
• Quick Preparation: Grill the corn in just minutes, allowing you to spend more time enjoying your meal and less time in the kitchen.
• Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh corn ensures you’ll get all the natural sweetness and crunch that frozen alternatives can’t match.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather your tools and prepare your grilling area. Having everything ready will make the cooking process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Basting brush
• Aluminum foil (optional)
• Tongs

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: The key to achieving that smoky flavor while cooking the corn evenly.
• Basting brush: Ideal for applying garlic butter generously to each ear of corn for maximum flavor.

Ingredients

For the Corn

• 4 ears of fresh corn on the cob

For Garlic Butter

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Garlic Butter Grilled Corn

Step 1: Prepare the Corn

Start by husking the corn and removing all silk strands. Rinse under cold water if necessary.

Step 2: Mix Garlic Butter

In a bowl, combine melted butter with minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Stir well until all ingredients are blended.

Step 3: Preheat Your Grill

Heat your grill to a medium-high temperature (about 400°F). Ensure it’s clean for optimal grilling.

Step 4: Baste the Corn

Using your basting brush, apply a generous amount of garlic butter mixture over each ear of corn.

Step 5: Grill the Corn

Place the corn directly on the grill grates. Cook for about 10-15 minutes, turning every few minutes until charred spots appear.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Remove from the grill carefully using tongs. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over each ear before serving. Enjoy your delicious Garlic Butter Grilled Corn!

How to Serve Garlic Butter Grilled Corn

Garlic Butter Grilled Corn is a versatile dish that can complement various meals or stand alone as a tasty snack. Here are some delicious ways to serve this flavorful corn.

As a Side Dish

• With Grilled Meats: Pair the corn with grilled chicken, steak, or barbecue ribs for a hearty meal.
• Topped with Cheese: Sprinkle crumbled feta or cotija cheese over the corn for an extra layer of flavor.

In Salads

• Corn Salad: Cut the kernels off the cob and mix them into a fresh salad with tomatoes, avocado, and lime dressing.
• Pasta Salad: Incorporate grilled corn into pasta salads for added texture and sweetness.

As a Snack

• On-the-Go Option: Enjoy garlic butter grilled corn as a quick snack while enjoying outdoor activities.
• Party Appetizer: Serve in small cups at gatherings topped with herbs for an attractive presentation.

How to Perfect Garlic Butter Grilled Corn

Perfecting Garlic Butter Grilled Corn involves attention to detail. Follow these tips to enhance your grilling experience.

• Choose Fresh Corn: Select ears that are bright green with tightly packed kernels for optimal sweetness.
• Use Quality Butter: Opt for high-quality unsalted butter to allow the garlic flavor to shine through without being overwhelmed.
• Grill Over Medium Heat: Maintain medium heat on your grill to ensure even cooking and prevent burning.
• Baste Generously: Apply garlic butter generously during grilling to infuse maximum flavor into the kernels.

Best Side Dishes for Garlic Butter Grilled Corn

Garlic Butter Grilled Corn pairs wonderfully with many side dishes. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Coleslaw: A refreshing cabbage salad that adds crunch and balances the richness of the corn.
2. Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad provides hearty satisfaction that complements grilled flavors well.
3. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil offer a light and vibrant contrast to garlic butter corn.
4. Grilled Vegetables: Mix different vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers for a colorful side dish that enhances any meal.
5. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf seasoned with herbs pairs beautifully alongside savory grilled corn.
6. Beans & Rice: A classic combination that adds protein and is satisfying enough alongside corn on the cob.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Garlic Butter Grilled Corn, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Avoiding these pitfalls will ensure your corn turns out delicious every time.

• Skipping fresh corn: Using older corn can lead to a lack of sweetness. Always choose the freshest ears available for the best flavor.
• Overcooking on the grill: Leaving corn on the grill too long can cause it to become tough. Aim for 10-15 minutes, turning frequently for even cooking.
• Not using enough garlic butter: A light application won’t provide the rich flavor you’re aiming for. Generously coat each ear of corn with your garlic butter mixture for maximum taste.
• Ignoring seasoning: Just because it’s garlic butter doesn’t mean you shouldn’t add more spices! A pinch of salt or pepper can enhance the overall flavor profile.
• Grilling without soaking: Soaking corn in water before grilling can help keep it moist. This step prevents the kernels from drying out and adds steam during cooking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
• Garlic Butter Grilled Corn can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
• Ensure the corn has cooled down before sealing it in a container.

Freezing Garlic Butter Grilled Corn

• Wrap individual cobs tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped cobs in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months without losing flavor.

Reheating Garlic Butter Grilled Corn

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Wrap corn in foil and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Place corn on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat for 1-2 minutes, checking every 30 seconds.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a little extra garlic butter if desired. Cook until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I choose the best corn for Garlic Butter Grilled Corn?

Look for ears that are bright green and tightly packed husks. The kernels should feel plump and milky when you pierce them.

Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh?

While fresh is preferred, you can use frozen corn. Thaw it completely before grilling for best results.

What spices pair well with Garlic Butter Grilled Corn?

Consider adding paprika, chili powder, or even Parmesan cheese after grilling to elevate the flavor further.

How long do I need to grill my corn?

Aim for about 10-15 minutes on medium heat, turning frequently until you see slight char marks appear.

Can I customize my garlic butter recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add herbs like parsley or basil or even a splash of lime juice for extra zing!

Final Thoughts

Garlic Butter Grilled Corn is not just a side dish; it’s an experience that brings out the best flavors of summer. This recipe is incredibly versatile—feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices based on your preferences. Whether served at barbecues or family dinners, this dish is sure to impress everyone at your table. Give it a try and enjoy customizing it to fit your taste!

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Garlic Butter Grilled Corn on the Cob

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Garlic Butter Grilled Corn on the Cob is the quintessential summer side dish that elevates any meal with its delightful blend of flavors. This simple yet indulgent recipe transforms fresh corn into a mouthwatering treat, perfect for barbecues, picnics, and family gatherings. The rich garlic butter enhances the corn’s natural sweetness while the grill adds a smoky touch, making each bite an explosion of flavor. Whether paired with grilled meats or enjoyed as a standalone snack, this dish is sure to impress. With minimal ingredients and quick preparation, you can savor the taste of summer in just minutes.

• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 ears of fresh corn on the cob
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

Instructions

1. Husk the corn and remove silk strands; rinse if necessary.
2. Combine melted butter, minced garlic, salt, and pepper in a bowl and stir until well mixed.
3. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F).
4. Baste each ear of corn generously with the garlic butter mixture.
5. Place corn directly on grill grates; cook for 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally until charred spots appear.
6. Carefully remove from grill using tongs; garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

• Author: Juniper
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 ear of corn (approximately 110g)
• Calories: 200
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 370mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 30mg

Keywords: For extra flavor variations, consider adding spices like paprika or chili powder after grilling. Ensure you choose fresh corn for optimal sweetness and crunch.