How to Grill Corn on the Grill

Fresh corn on the cob is a delightful treat that shines during summer barbecues and family gatherings. How to Grill Corn on the Grill brings out its natural sweetness, creating a smoky flavor that pairs well with any dish. Whether you’re hosting a backyard party or enjoying a quiet evening at home, this simple recipe will elevate your meal and impress your guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With only two main ingredients, you can have delicious grilled corn ready in no time.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal as a side dish for summer picnics, barbecues, or even casual weeknight dinners.
• Versatile Flavor Options: Customize your grilled corn by adding spices, herbs, or cheese for an extra kick.
• Healthier Alternative: Grilling corn enhances its flavor without adding extra calories or fats.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Its irresistible taste makes it a favorite among both kids and adults.

Tools and Preparation

Before you get started with grilling corn, gather your tools. Having the right equipment makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Tongs
• Brush for oil application
• Platter

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: The heart of the operation; it provides that perfect charred flavor.
• Tongs: Essential for safely turning the corn while it cooks without losing any kernels.
• Brush for oil application: Ensures even coverage of olive oil, enhancing flavor and preventing sticking.

Ingredients

Fresh grilled corn on the cob is a summer favorite. It has an irresistible sweet, charred, smoky flavor.

For the Corn

• 4 Ears of Corn
• 3 Tablespoons Olive oil

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make How to Grill Corn on the Grill

Step 1: Shuck the Corn

Remove the husks from each ear of corn carefully. Ensure all cornsilk is removed for a smooth eating experience.

Step 2: Preheat Your Grill

Set your grill to medium-high heat. This step is crucial for achieving that lovely char on your corn.

Step 3: Place Corn on the Grill

Once preheated, place your ears of corn directly on the hot grill grates.

Step 4: Brush with Olive Oil

Using a brush, coat the corn evenly with olive oil. This adds flavor and helps prevent sticking.

Step 5: Cooking Time

Allow the corn to cook for about 8 minutes. Use tongs to turn each ear every 4 minutes to ensure even cooking.

Step 6: Check for Char

Continue grilling until the corn is evenly charred, which should take about 13 to 15 minutes total.

Step 7: Season and Serve

Once cooked, transfer the corn to a platter. Sprinkle salt and pepper over it to taste. For an extra delicious touch, add pats of butter before serving.

How to Serve How to Grill Corn on the Grill

Grilled corn on the grill is delicious on its own but can be enhanced with various toppings and pairings. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to elevate your grilled corn experience.

Classic Butter and Salt

• Butter: Spread pats of butter over the hot corn for a rich, creamy flavor.
• Salt: Sprinkle sea salt or your favorite seasoning salt for an added burst of taste.

Spicy Lime Crema

• Lime Juice: Drizzle fresh lime juice for a zesty kick.
• Crema: Add sour cream or Mexican crema mixed with chili powder for a creamy, spicy topping.

Cheese and Herbs

• Parmesan Cheese: Grate fresh Parmesan over the corn for a savory twist.
• Fresh Herbs: Garnish with chopped cilantro or parsley for freshness.

BBQ Sauce Drizzle

• Sweet BBQ Sauce: Brush your favorite barbecue sauce on the grilled corn for a sweet and tangy flavor.
• Hot Sauce: For those who love heat, add a few dashes of hot sauce!

How to Perfect How to Grill Corn on the Grill

To achieve perfectly grilled corn, follow these helpful tips that will enhance both flavor and texture.

• Choose Fresh Corn: Always select fresh, in-season corn for the best taste and sweetness.
• Preheat Your Grill: Make sure your grill is at medium-high heat before placing the corn; this ensures even cooking.
• Oil Generously: Brush olive oil well to prevent sticking and enhance flavor while grilling.
• Rotate Regularly: Turn the corn every 4 minutes to achieve an even char on all sides.
• Check Doneness: Look for a nice char; it usually takes about 13-15 minutes total cooking time.
• Season Immediately: Season with salt right after grilling so it sticks better to the corn.

Best Side Dishes for How to Grill Corn on the Grill

Pairing side dishes with grilled corn elevates any meal. Here are some fantastic options that complement its smoky sweetness.

1. Coleslaw: A crunchy cabbage slaw adds freshness and balances out the richness of grilled foods.
2. Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad brings comfort and pairs beautifully with grilled flavors.
3. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers can be grilled alongside your corn for a colorful plate.
4. Baked Beans: Sweet and savory baked beans offer a hearty side that complements any summer barbecue.
5. Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella create a refreshing contrast to warm grilled corn.
6. Cornbread: Sweet cornbread is a delightful way to continue the corn theme while adding a comforting touch.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When learning how to grill corn on the grill, it’s easy to make simple mistakes that can affect the flavor and texture of your corn. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid.

• Boldly skip shucking: Failing to shuck the corn properly can lead to a messy grilling experience. Always remove the husks and silk before grilling for best results.
• Boldly ignore preheating: Not preheating your grill can result in uneven cooking. Make sure your grill is at medium-high heat before placing the corn on it.
• Boldly neglect oiling: Skipping the olive oil can cause the corn to stick to the grates. Brush olive oil on all sides of the corn for a perfect char and flavor.
• Boldly overcook or undercook: Cooking the corn for too long or not enough will ruin its texture. Aim for 13 to 15 minutes, turning every 4 minutes for even charring.
• Boldly forget seasoning: Not seasoning your grilled corn can leave it bland. Season with salt and pepper after grilling, and consider adding butter for extra richness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store grilled corn in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3 days in the fridge.
• Keep it unseasoned if you plan to reheat later.

Freezing How to Grill Corn on the Grill

• Wrap each ear of grilled corn tightly in aluminum foil.
• Place in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Frozen grilled corn can last up to 3 months.

Reheating How to Grill Corn on the Grill

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap corn in foil and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Place corn in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat for 1-2 minutes per ear.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a little olive oil and sauté corn for about 5 minutes until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know when my corn is done grilling?

The corn is done when it’s evenly charred and tender, usually around 13 to 15 minutes on medium-high heat.

Can I grill frozen corn?

Yes, you can grill frozen corn; just ensure it’s thawed first. Follow regular grilling instructions once thawed.

What are some variations for grilled corn?

You can add toppings like cheese, chili powder, lime juice, or herbs after grilling for added flavor.

How to Grill Corn on the Grill without husking?

For a unique flavor, you can grill corn with husks on. Simply soak it in water first, then place it directly on the grill.

Final Thoughts

Grilling corn is not only simple but also incredibly rewarding. The sweet, smoky flavor makes it a fantastic side dish for any summer meal. Feel free to customize this recipe with your favorite seasonings or toppings like cheese or herbs. Enjoy trying out this delightful recipe!