Grilled Corn on the Cob: A Summer Delight for the Family
As the summer heat waves roll in, there’s no better way to enjoy the season than with a classic outdoor barbecue. And what’s a barbecue without the quintessential side dish—Grilled Corn on the Cob? Not only is it a sweet, smoky treat that complements any main dish, but it’s also incredibly simple to prepare and cook. Perfect for a family of four, this recipe will guide you through the steps to achieve perfectly grilled corn, ensuring a delightful crunch with every bite.
Ingredients:
- 4 ears of fresh corn on the cob
- Butter (for serving)
- Salt, to taste
- Optional: chili powder, lime, parmesan cheese, or fresh herbs for garnishing
Preparation:
- Preheat the Grill: Start by heating your grill to a medium-high heat. You want the grill to be hot enough to cook the corn thoroughly without burning it.
- Prepare the Corn: While the grill is heating, peel back the husks of the corn without completely removing them. Remove the silk (the fine threads between the husk and the corn) and rinse the corn under cold water. After cleaning, pull the husks back up around the corn. If you prefer, you can completely remove the husks and silk, and wrap the corn in aluminum foil for grilling.
- Soak the Corn: If you’re keeping the husks on, soak the corn in a large bowl of water for about 10 minutes. This step helps to prevent the husks from burning too quickly on the grill.
Cooking:
- Grill the Corn: Place the corn directly on the grill, turning every 2-3 minutes. If you’ve kept the husks on, they will char, which is perfectly fine—it adds to the smoky flavor. Grill the corn for about 15-20 minutes or until the kernels are tender and slightly charred.
- Add Flavor: Once the corn is grilled to perfection, carefully peel back the husks (or remove the foil if you went that route). Be cautious, as the corn will be very hot. Slather the corn with butter and season with salt to taste. For a more adventurous flavor, sprinkle with chili powder, squeeze lime over the top, add a sprinkle of parmesan cheese, or garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley.
Serving:
Place the beautifully grilled corn on a platter. If you’ve opted for additional garnishes, consider serving them on the side, allowing each family member to customize their ear of corn to their liking. Grilled Corn on the Cob is not just a side dish; it’s a summer experience, best enjoyed outdoors with family and laughter.
Conclusion:
Grilled Corn on the Cob is a simple, yet utterly satisfying dish that screams summer. It’s a versatile side that pairs well with almost any main dish, from burgers and steaks to grilled fish or chicken. By following this easy guide, you can turn a basic ear of corn into a flavorful masterpiece that your family will request time and time again. So fire up the grill, soak in the summer vibes, and get ready to enjoy one of the season’s simplest pleasures. Happy grilling!
