Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Cooking corn on the cob is one of the easiest ways to enjoy fresh, sweet corn. It’s a versatile side dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses, and it’s incredibly simple to prepare. The best part? You can cook it in multiple ways to suit your preferences—whether you like it boiled, grilled, or roasted, this recipe covers it all. It’s a must-try for corn lovers and anyone looking to add a delicious vegetable to their meal.
Ingredients
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Fresh ears of corn
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Water (for boiling)
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Butter (optional)
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Salt (optional)
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Olive oil (for grilling)
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Seasonings or herbs (optional)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
Boiling Corn:
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Start by husking the corn, removing the silk, and breaking the ears in half if needed.
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Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil.
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Add the corn to the boiling water and cook for 7-10 minutes, or until the kernels are tender.
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Remove the corn from the water using tongs and serve with butter and salt, if desired.
Grilling Corn:
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Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
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Husk the corn and brush the kernels with olive oil or your favorite seasoning.
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Place the corn on the grill and cook for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the kernels are charred and tender.
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Remove from the grill and serve with butter, herbs, or seasonings.
Roasting Corn (in the oven):
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Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
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Husk the corn or leave it in the husk for a more natural, smoky flavor.
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Place the corn on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, turning once, until tender.
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Serve with butter and your favorite seasonings.
Servings and Timing
This recipe makes enough for 4 servings. Depending on your cooking method, you can expect the following cooking times:
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Boiling: 7-10 minutes
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Grilling: 10-15 minutes
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Roasting: 20-25 minutes
Variations
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Add spices: You can spice up your corn with chili powder, paprika, garlic powder, or even a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
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Herb butter: Instead of regular butter, mix in fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or cilantro for a flavorful twist.
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Mexican street corn (Elote): Coat your grilled corn in mayonnaise, sprinkle with cotija cheese, chili powder, and a squeeze of lime for a delicious Mexican-inspired treat.
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Vegan option: Skip the butter and try a drizzle of olive oil, or use dairy-free butter for a plant-based version.
Storage/Reheating
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Storage: Leftover corn can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
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Reheating: Reheat your corn in the microwave, on the stovetop, or in the oven. To retain moisture, wrap the corn in a damp paper towel before microwaving, or reheat it covered in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes.
FAQs
How do I know when corn on the cob is done?
The corn is done when the kernels are tender and can be easily pierced with a fork.
Can I cook corn on the cob without husking it?
Yes, you can cook corn with the husk on, especially when grilling or roasting. It adds a smoky flavor.
How do I cook corn on the cob if I don’t have a grill?
Boiling or roasting the corn are great alternatives when you don’t have access to a grill.
What’s the best way to remove corn silk?
After husking, use a soft brush or your hands to gently remove the silk strands.
Can I freeze corn on the cob?
Yes, you can freeze cooked corn. It’s best to blanch it before freezing to preserve the flavor and texture.
How do I make corn on the cob spicy?
Add chili powder, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce for an extra kick.
Should I add sugar to the water when boiling corn?
Some people add sugar to the water to enhance the sweetness of the corn, but it’s not necessary.
How long can I store leftover corn on the cob?
Leftover corn can be stored in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
Can I microwave corn on the cob?
Yes, place the corn with the husk on in the microwave and cook for 3-4 minutes for one ear. You can also microwave it without the husk wrapped in a damp paper towel.
What is the best way to reheat leftover grilled corn on the cob?
Reheat grilled corn on the cob by wrapping it in foil and placing it in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes.
Conclusion
Corn on the cob is a classic side dish that can be cooked in various ways to suit your preferences. Whether you boil it, grill it, or roast it, this simple and versatile recipe is sure to bring out the best flavors of summer. With a few variations and easy methods, you can customize your corn to fit any occasion. Enjoy this delicious and easy treat at your next family gathering or BBQ!
The Best Way to Cook Corn on the Cob
Learn the best way to cook corn on the cob, with methods that preserve its natural sweetness and flavor. Whether you prefer boiling, grilling, or roasting, this recipe will give you perfect, tender corn every time. Perfect for summer barbecues, family dinners, or any occasion!
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-30 minutes
- Total Time: 15-35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 4 ears of fresh corn on the cob
- Water (if boiling)
- Salt (optional, for boiling or grilling)
- Butter (optional, for serving)
- Freshly ground black pepper (optional, for serving)
- Lime wedges (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- Boiling:
- Fill a large pot with water and bring to a boil.
- Remove the husks and silk from the corn.
- Add the corn to the boiling water and cook for 7-10 minutes, until the kernels are tender.
- Remove the corn from the water and drain.
- Serve with butter, salt, and pepper, if desired.
- Grilling:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Remove the husks and silk from the corn, or leave the husks on for a smokier flavor.
- Lightly brush the corn with oil or butter if desired.
- Grill the corn for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally until the kernels are tender and slightly charred.
- Serve with butter, salt, pepper, and lime wedges for an extra burst of flavor.
- Oven Roasting:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place the corn on a baking sheet, either with or without the husks (husks will give a steamed effect).
- Roast for 25-30 minutes, turning halfway through the cooking time, until the corn is tender and golden.
- Serve with butter and seasoning as desired.
Notes
- If you prefer a sweeter, more intense flavor, consider grilling or roasting the corn for a smoky char.
- For a quicker cook time, boiling is the fastest method, though it may not add the same depth of flavor as grilling or roasting.
- For extra flavor, try adding garlic, Parmesan, or a sprinkle of chili powder on the corn after cooking.
