Grilled Corn on the Cob for Family Cookouts
There’s nothing quite like the taste of grilled corn on the cob at a summer cookout. It’s a side dish that brings everyone together, making it a staple for family gatherings and outdoor barbecues. The smoky flavor from the grill paired with the natural sweetness of the corn creates a delicious combination that’s hard to resist.
Imagine biting into a perfectly charred ear of corn, the kernels bursting with flavor and juiciness. This recipe makes it easy to elevate this beloved vegetable to the main star of your cookout. With just a few simple steps and minimal ingredients, you can impress your guests and create lasting memories around the grill.
Whether you’re hosting a big family gathering or a small backyard get-together, grilled corn is sure to be a hit. It’s a versatile side that pairs wonderfully with a variety of main dishes and offers a touch of sweetness that balances out savory flavors beautifully.
The Allure of Grilled Corn
Grilled corn on the cob is a quintessential side dish that captures the essence of summer cookouts and family gatherings. Its simple preparation belies the rich, smoky flavor that infuses each kernel during grilling.
As the corn sizzles on the grill, it transforms into a delightful treat that draws everyone together. This vibrant dish not only serves as a side but also as a centerpiece that adds a splash of color and flavor to any outdoor dining experience.
Preparing Your Corn
To achieve the best flavor, starting with fresh corn is key. Husk the corn thoroughly and rinse it under cold water to remove any silk that may cling to the kernels.
Next, drying the corn gently is essential, as it helps the butter and spices adhere better during grilling. This preparation sets the stage for the deliciousness to follow.
Butter and Seasoning Bliss
Once your corn is prepped, the fun begins with the butter mixture. Melting butter and combining it with salt and pepper creates a rich coating that enhances the natural sweetness of the corn.
Feel free to get creative with your seasonings! A sprinkle of paprika can add a touch of warmth and color, while fresh chopped parsley brings a burst of freshness that elevates the dish.
The Grilling Process
Grilling corn is where the magic happens. Preheating your grill to medium-high ensures that the corn gets those beautiful char marks while cooking through evenly.
As you place the corn on the grates, don’t forget to turn them occasionally. This helps in achieving that sought-after golden char without burning. The process typically takes about 10-15 minutes, but the aroma will have everyone eagerly awaiting their turn!
Serving Suggestions
Once removed from the grill, the corn can be brushed with a little extra melted butter for indulgence. The final touch of paprika and parsley gives it a vibrant look that’s sure to impress.
Serving the corn on a large platter invites family and friends to gather around, making it a perfect addition to any cookout spread. Its versatility allows it to pair wonderfully with various grilled meats or other side dishes, creating a delightful dining experience.
Creating Lasting Memories
Enjoying a platter of grilled corn on the cob during a family cookout is more than just about the food; it’s about the memories created around the grill. The shared experience of preparing, cooking, and savoring this delightful dish brings everyone closer.
From laughter to stories shared, each bite of grilled corn signifies the warmth of togetherness that family gatherings embody. Embrace the essence of summer and make grilled corn a staple in your outdoor dining adventures!
Simple and Delicious Grilled Corn Recipe
Grilled corn on the cob is a simple yet flavorful dish that features fresh corn, butter, and spices. Each bite is a delightful burst of sweetness with a smoky finish, making it a favorite at family cookouts.
Ingredients
- 4 ears of fresh corn, husked
- 4 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon salt, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Husk the Corn: Remove the husks and silk from the corn. Rinse the ears under cold water and pat dry.
- Season the Corn: In a bowl, mix melted butter, salt, and pepper. Brush this mixture generously over each ear of corn.
- Grill the Corn: Place the corn directly on the grill grates. Grill for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the kernels are tender and have nice char marks.
- Serve: Remove from the grill and brush with additional melted butter if desired. Sprinkle with paprika and parsley for an extra touch. Enjoy hot!
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 150kcal
- Fat: 10g
- Protein: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
