When the sun shines bright and the grill is sizzling, there’s one dish that steals the show at every Memorial Day gathering: Grilled Corn on Cob Memorial Day Essential Side. Picture this: golden kernels bursting with sweet juiciness, kissed by the smoky embrace of the grill, and slathered in your favorite buttery goodness. It’s that perfect blend of crunchy and tender that makes each bite a celebration of summer. For more inspiration, check out this more recipes to try recipe.
Now, let me take you back to my childhood. Every Memorial Day, my family would gather around the grill, laughter echoing through the air as we fought over who could get to the corn first. The aroma wafting from the grill was nothing short of magical, pulling us away from whatever important game we were playing. And trust me, nothing beats biting into that sweet corn while attempting to keep butter from dripping down your arms—pure bliss!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Grilled Corn on Cob recipe is incredibly easy to prepare, making it a go-to for busy holiday weekends
- The flavor profile is a delightful mix of sweetness and smokiness that pairs well with any main dish
- With its vibrant golden hue and charred accents, it’s visually stunning and sure to impress your guests
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to enjoy year-round, not just at barbecues!
Ingredients for Grilled Corn on Cob Memorial Day Essential Side
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Fresh Corn on the Cob: Select vibrant green husks with plump kernels underneath for optimal sweetness.
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Butter: Use unsalted butter for better control over seasoning; feel free to add garlic or herbs for an extra kick.
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Salt: Sea salt or kosher salt works best to enhance the natural flavors of the corn.
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Pepper: Freshly cracked black pepper adds a nice kick; adjust according to your taste preference.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Grilled Corn on Cob Memorial Day Essential Side
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prep Your Corn
Start by peeling back the husks of each ear of corn without completely removing them. Remove all silk strands—the more you get off now, the less you’ll have to deal with later.
Step 2: Soak Your Corn
Fill a large bowl with water and submerge your corn cobs in it for about 30 minutes. This prevents them from drying out on the grill.
Step 3: Preheat Your Grill
While your corn soaks up some moisture, fire up your grill. Aim for a medium-high heat (around 400°F or 200°C) for those beautiful char marks.
Step 4: Season Your Corn
Once soaked, pat dry your corn cobs and spread butter generously over each ear. Sprinkle with salt and pepper—go ahead and be generous!
Step 5: Grill Away
Place your prepared corn directly on the grill grates. Grill for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally until all sides are nicely charred.
Step 6: Serve Hot
Remove from the grill and let cool just a bit before serving. You can add extra butter or sprinkle some fresh herbs if you’re feeling fancy!
Transfer to plates and serve hot alongside burgers or grilled chicken for a truly festive meal!
Now that you know how to create this Grilled Corn on Cob Memorial Day Essential Side, gather your friends and family around—because nothing brings people together like good food! Enjoy every juicy bite as you create new memories this holiday season!
You Must Know
- This Grilled Corn on Cob Memorial Day Essential Side is more than just a tasty treat; it’s a chance to gather family and friends around the grill
- The sweet, smoky flavor pairs perfectly with summer vibes and makes every bite a celebration of sunshine
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by soaking the corn in water for about 30 minutes. While that’s happening, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. After soaking, wrap the corn in foil or place it directly on the grill. Cook for 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally for even roasting.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to jazz up your grilled corn with toppings like chili powder, lime juice, or crumbled feta cheese. You can also swap fresh corn for frozen if you’re in a pinch. Remember, creativity is key to making this side uniquely yours!
Storing & Reheating
To store leftover grilled corn, wrap it tightly in aluminum foil or place it in an airtight container. When reheating, simply toss it back on the grill or microwave for a few seconds until warm—just like magic!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Soak your corn before grilling; this prevents burning and keeps it juicy
- Avoid overcooking to maintain that crisp-tender texture
- Lastly, experiment with different herbs and spices to elevate flavors beyond traditional seasoning
I remember the first time I made this Grilled Corn on Cob Memorial Day Essential Side. My aunt declared it “the best thing since sliced bread,” which totally made my day!
FAQs:
What is the best way to grill corn on the cob for Memorial Day?
To grill corn on the cob perfectly for Memorial Day, start by soaking the cobs in water for at least 30 minutes. This helps prevent burning. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. You can grill the corn in husks or wrapped in foil. Cook for about 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally until tender. For added flavor, brush melted butter and sprinkle salt before serving.
Can I make grilled corn on the cob ahead of time?
While grilled corn on the cob is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare it ahead of time. Grill the corn as usual and let it cool. Once cooled, wrap it in foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to two days. To reheat, place it back on the grill or use an oven until warm. This allows you to enjoy this Memorial Day essential side without last-minute hassle.
What toppings pair well with grilled corn on the cob?
Grilled corn on the cob offers a delicious base for various toppings that enhance its flavor. Popular choices include melted butter with garlic, lime juice with chili powder, or even Parmesan cheese with fresh herbs. For a Mexican twist, try spreading mayonnaise mixed with lime and cotija cheese. These toppings make your grilled corn an unforgettable Memorial Day essential side.
How do I know when my grilled corn on the cob is done?
To determine if your grilled corn on the cob is done, look for a few key signs. The kernels should be plump and tender when pierced with a fork. Additionally, they will have a slight char from grilling but not be burnt. Cooking typically takes around 15-20 minutes over medium-high heat; however, check regularly to achieve that perfect texture for your Memorial Day gathering.
Conclusion for Grilled Corn on Cob Memorial Day Essential Side:
Grilled corn on the cob is undeniably a Memorial Day essential side that adds flavor and fun to your outdoor gatherings. By soaking the cobs before grilling and experimenting with various toppings, you can elevate this simple dish into something extraordinary. Remember to keep an eye on cooking times to ensure perfectly tender kernels every time you serve them at your celebration. Enjoy this classic summer treat and make lasting memories with loved ones!
Grilled Corn on Cob Memorial Day Essential Side
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Grilled Corn on the Cob is the ultimate Memorial Day side dish, bursting with sweet, juicy kernels that are beautifully charred on the grill. This easy-to-make recipe highlights the essence of summer gatherings, making it a must-have for your barbecue. With just a few simple ingredients and quick preparation steps, you can impress your family and friends with this flavorful treat that’s perfect for any outdoor celebration.
Ingredients
- 4 ears fresh corn on the cob
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
Instructions
- Peel back the husks of each ear of corn without removing them completely and remove all silk strands.
- Soak the corn cobs in a large bowl of water for 30 minutes to keep them juicy while grilling.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F or 200°C).
- Pat dry the soaked corn and spread butter generously over each ear. Season with salt and pepper.
- Place the corn directly on the grill grates. Grill for 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally until charred on all sides.
- Remove from the grill and serve hot, optionally adding extra butter or fresh herbs.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ear (90g)
- Calories: 115
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 175mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
