Summer BBQs are a cherished tradition in my family, filled with laughter, good food, and unforgettable memories. One dish that always steals the show is Grilled Corn on the Cob with Garlic Herb Butter. The moment that sweet, smoky aroma wafts through the air, I can’t help but feel a wave of nostalgia. I remember the first time I made this dish for a family gathering. My cousin, who usually turns his nose up at vegetables, took one bite and declared it the best corn he’d ever had! That’s the magic of this recipe—it transforms simple corn into a flavor-packed delight that everyone loves.
As the corn sizzles on the grill, the garlic herb butter melts into every crevice, creating a mouthwatering experience that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re hosting a backyard party or just enjoying a quiet evening, this dish brings a burst of summer flavor to your table. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make it a staple at every gathering. So, let’s dive into the ingredients and get started on this delicious journey!
Ingredients List
4 ears of fresh corn, husked and cleaned
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
3 garlic cloves, minced finely
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
1 tablespoon fresh chives, finely chopped
1 tablespoon fresh basil, finely chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
Lime wedges, for serving
These ingredients come together to create a delightful flavor explosion. The fresh corn is the star of the show, while the garlic herb butter adds a rich, savory touch. Feel free to adjust the herbs based on your preferences or what you have on hand. This recipe is all about making it your own!
How to Prepare Grilled Corn on the Cob with Garlic Herb Butter
Preparing Grilled Corn on the Cob with Garlic Herb Butter is a simple yet rewarding process. Follow these steps to ensure your corn is bursting with flavor and perfectly grilled.
Step 1: Prepare the Garlic Herb Butter
Start by making the garlic herb butter. In a medium bowl, combine the softened butter with the minced garlic, chopped parsley, chives, and basil. I like to use a fork to mix everything together, ensuring the garlic and herbs are evenly distributed throughout the butter. This way, every bite of corn will be infused with that delicious flavor. Once mixed, season the butter with salt and pepper to taste. Set it aside while you prepare the corn.
Step 2: Grill the Corn
Next, it’s time to fire up the grill! Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This is crucial for achieving that perfect char on the corn. While the grill is heating, husk and clean the corn, removing all the silk. Once the grill is ready, place the husked corn directly on the grates. Grill the corn for about 10-15 minutes, turning it every few minutes. You want to see those beautiful char marks and feel the kernels become tender. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning, as every grill is a bit different.
Step 3: Apply the Garlic Herb Butter
Once the corn is grilled to perfection, remove it from the grill. This is the moment you’ve been waiting for! While the corn is still hot, generously brush the garlic herb butter over each ear. The heat from the corn will melt the butter, allowing it to seep into every nook and cranny. Trust me, this step is essential for maximizing flavor. Serve the corn immediately with lime wedges on the side for an extra zing. Enjoy your delicious creation at your next BBQ!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have this dish ready to grill, making it perfect for busy summer days.
Delicious Flavor: The combination of sweet corn and savory garlic herb butter creates a mouthwatering experience that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Perfect for Gatherings: This dish is a crowd-pleaser, ideal for BBQs, picnics, or family dinners. It adds a burst of flavor to any meal.
Customizable: You can easily adjust the herbs and spices to suit your taste, making it a versatile addition to your recipe collection.
Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh corn and herbs elevates the dish, ensuring a vibrant and tasty side that complements any main course.
Tips for Success
To make your Grilled Corn on the Cob with Garlic Herb Butter truly shine, here are some handy tips:
Adjust the Garlic: If you love garlic, feel free to add an extra clove or two. For a milder flavor, reduce the amount.
Experiment with Herbs: Don’t hesitate to mix in other herbs like thyme or oregano for a unique twist. Each herb brings its own character!
Try Different Butters: For a fun variation, use flavored butters, like chili lime or lemon herb, to change up the taste.
Grill in Foil: If you prefer a softer texture, wrap the corn in foil before grilling. This steams the corn while still allowing it to absorb the smoky flavor.
Serve with Toppings: Consider offering toppings like crumbled cheese or a sprinkle of chili powder for added flavor and texture.
These tips will help you create a memorable dish that everyone will love!
Nutritional Information Section
Understanding the nutritional value of your food can enhance your cooking experience. Here’s the estimated nutritional information for one serving of Grilled Corn on the Cob with Garlic Herb Butter:
Calories: 180
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Unsaturated Fat: 4g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 30mg
Sodium: 150mg
Carbohydrates: 15g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 2g
Protein: 3g
These values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients used. Enjoy this delicious side dish knowing it’s not only tasty but also provides a good balance of nutrients!
FAQ Section
Here are some common questions I often hear about making Grilled Corn on the Cob with Garlic Herb Butter:
Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh?
While fresh corn is best for flavor and texture, you can use frozen corn if needed. Just make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before grilling.
What are some variations I can try?
You can experiment with different herbs like cilantro or dill for a unique twist. Adding spices like smoked paprika or cayenne pepper can also give your corn a delightful kick!
How should I store leftovers?
If you have any leftover corn, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. It can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it on the grill or in the microwave before serving.
What’s the best way to grill corn?
For the best results, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Turn the corn every few minutes to ensure even cooking and achieve those beautiful char marks.
Can I make the garlic herb butter ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the garlic herb butter a day in advance. Just store it in the fridge and let it soften at room temperature before using it on your grilled corn.
Serving Suggestions
Grilled Corn on the Cob with Garlic Herb Butter is a fantastic side dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of main courses. Here are some delicious ideas to complement your corn:
Grilled Meats: Serve it alongside juicy grilled chicken, steak, or pork chops. The smoky flavors of the meat enhance the sweetness of the corn.
Fresh Salads: A light, refreshing salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the garlic herb butter.
BBQ Ribs: The sweet and savory notes of BBQ ribs make for a perfect match with the corn, creating a classic summer feast.
Fish Tacos: For a fun twist, serve the corn with fish tacos topped with fresh salsa and avocado. The flavors meld beautifully!
These pairings will elevate your meal and make your summer gatherings even more memorable. Enjoy the burst of flavors!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing leftovers of Grilled Corn on the Cob with Garlic Herb Butter is easy and ensures you can enjoy this delicious dish later. First, let the corn cool to room temperature. Then, wrap each ear tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container. This will help keep the corn fresh and prevent it from drying out. You can store the corn in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheating is simple. You can place the corn back on the grill for a few minutes to warm it up and regain that lovely char. Alternatively, you can microwave it for about 1-2 minutes, just until heated through. If you want to refresh the flavor, consider brushing on a little extra garlic herb butter before serving. Enjoy your tasty corn again!
Grilled Corn on the Cob with Garlic Herb Butter is a BBQ must-have that brings flavor to your summer gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
4 ears of fresh corn, husked and cleaned
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
1 tablespoon fresh chives, finely chopped
1 tablespoon fresh basil, finely chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
Lime wedges (for serving)
Instructions
In a medium bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, chives, and basil. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
Season the garlic herb butter with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
Place the husked corn directly on the grill grates. Grill the corn for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the kernels are tender and slightly charred.
Once the corn is grilled to perfection, remove it from the grill and immediately brush the garlic herb butter generously over each ear of corn while it’s still hot.
Serve the grilled corn on the cob with lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of flavor. Enjoy your deliciously seasoned corn at your next BBQ!
Notes
Adjust the amount of garlic based on your preference.
Try adding other herbs for variation.
For a spicy kick, sprinkle some chili powder on top.
