If you crave a tasty summer treat, Garlic Butter Grilled Corn is the answer! This mouthwatering dish combines sweet, juicy corn with a rich garlic butter spread, making it perfect for your next barbecue. In this post, I’ll show you how to make this simple delight with fresh ingredients. Get ready to impress your friends and family with an easy recipe that brings summer flavors to your table!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 4 ears of fresh corn, husked
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
– 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Parmesan cheese for garnish (optional)
For this garlic butter grilled corn, you need simple, fresh ingredients. Fresh corn is the star here. Choose ears that feel heavy and have bright green husks. The butter adds richness, while garlic gives a bold flavor. Fresh parsley brightens the dish. Lemon juice adds a hint of tartness. Paprika gives a gentle warmth, while salt and pepper enhance all the flavors. If you like, sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top for extra creaminess.
Using high-quality ingredients makes a big difference. This dish shines with freshness. You can find most of these items at your local market or grocery store. Remember, the goal is to make this dish easy and tasty. For the full recipe, check the detailed steps above.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Grill
First, you need to preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This step is key for even cooking. A hot grill will help the corn get those nice grill marks and a smoky flavor. While the grill heats up, ensure the grill grates are clean. Use a grill brush to scrape off any old food particles. A clean grill gives you the best taste.
Making Garlic Butter Spread
Next, let’s make the garlic butter spread. In a small bowl, combine the softened butter with minced garlic and chopped herbs. I like to add fresh parsley for color and taste. Also, squeeze in some lemon juice and sprinkle paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix everything until it’s well blended. This garlic butter will coat the corn and make it super tasty.
Grilling the Corn
Now it’s time to grill the corn. Take your husked corn and brush it generously with the garlic butter spread. Make sure every cob is well-coated. Then, wrap each ear of corn in aluminum foil. Sealing it tightly keeps all the flavors locked in. Place the wrapped corn on the grill. Cook it for about 15-20 minutes, turning it every few minutes. You want the corn to be tender but not mushy.
When done, carefully unwrap the foil. Be cautious of the steam. You can brush on any leftover garlic butter for extra flavor. If you want to elevate your dish, sprinkle some Parmesan cheese on top. This adds a delightful finish. For the full recipe, check out the details above.
Tips & Tricks
Selecting the Best Corn
When you pick corn, look for bright green husks. The silk should be moist and golden. Squeeze the kernels gently. They should feel plump and firm. Fresh corn smells sweet and grassy. If it feels dry or shriveled, skip it. Always choose corn that is in season for the best taste.
Keeping Corn Tender
To keep corn tender, avoid grilling it too long. Wrap each ear tightly in foil to trap moisture. This helps it steam as it grills. Cook the corn for about 15 to 20 minutes. Turn it every five minutes for even cooking. Check if it’s done by piercing a kernel. If it bursts with juice, it’s ready.
Enhancing Flavor
You can spice up your garlic butter grilled corn in many ways. Try adding chili powder for heat. Lime juice gives a zesty twist. Fresh herbs like basil or cilantro can brighten the flavor. You can also sprinkle crumbled feta cheese for a salty kick. Every twist makes it unique and exciting.
For the full recipe, check out the Garlic Butter Grilled Corn recipe.
Variations
Different Flavor Profiles
You can easily change up the taste of garlic butter grilled corn. One way is by adding chili powder. This spice gives the corn a nice kick. You can also squeeze fresh lime juice over the corn. This brightens up the flavor and adds a zesty note.
Another fun idea is to try different cheese toppings. You can use feta or cotija cheese for a salty twist. Just sprinkle it on right before serving for a tasty finish.
Cooking Methods
If you don’t have a grill, don’t worry! You can cook corn in the oven or on the stovetop. For the oven, wrap the corn in foil and bake at 400°F for 25-30 minutes. This method keeps the corn juicy and flavorful.
On the stovetop, boil the corn in water for about 7-10 minutes. Then, you can brush on garlic butter as you would on the grill. Both methods work well and still give you a delicious result.
Vegan Alternatives
Want to make this dish vegan? You can substitute the butter with a plant-based option. Look for vegan butter or even olive oil. Both choices will keep the corn moist.
For cheese, try using nutritional yeast. It gives a cheesy flavor without dairy. Sprinkle it on before serving for that extra savory touch.
Explore these variations to make garlic butter grilled corn your own! For more tips and a full recipe, check out the Full Recipe section.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your garlic butter grilled corn fresh, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. This helps lock in flavors and moisture. If you want to avoid sogginess, don’t add any extra butter before storing.
Reheating Tips
When it’s time to enjoy your leftovers, reheat them carefully. The best way is to use a grill or stovetop. Heat the corn on medium heat for about five minutes, turning often. This method will warm the corn without making it dry. If you prefer the microwave, cover the corn with a damp paper towel. Heat in short bursts of 30 seconds until hot.
Freezing Grilled Corn
Yes, you can freeze grilled corn! To do this, allow it to cool completely. Wrap each ear in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. Make sure to squeeze out as much air as possible. Frozen corn can last up to three months. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. Enjoy the sweet summer flavor even in the colder months!
FAQs
How long does it take to grill corn?
Grilling corn takes about 15 to 20 minutes. Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. Wrap each ear in foil after brushing with garlic butter. Place them on the grill. Turn them every few minutes. The corn is done when it feels tender. Always check a piece to ensure it is cooked just right.
Can I use frozen corn for this recipe?
You can use frozen corn, but fresh corn is best. If you use frozen corn, thaw it first. Grill it in a basket or on skewers. This method helps keep the corn from falling apart. The flavors of the garlic butter will still shine through.
What should I serve with garlic butter grilled corn?
Garlic butter grilled corn pairs well with many dishes. Serve it with grilled meats like chicken or steak. It also complements salads and pasta dishes. For a light meal, try it with a fresh tomato salad. You can also enjoy it as a snack on its own.
For the complete recipe, check out the Full Recipe link.
In this blog post, we explored how to make delicious garlic butter grilled corn. We covered key ingredients, step-by-step grilling instructions, and tips for the best results. Remember to choose fresh corn for great flavor. You can also try variations to suit your taste or diet. Finally, proper storage and reheating ensure you enjoy leftovers. Enjoy this tasty dish with friends and family for a delightful treat. Grilled corn makes any meal better!
