Nothing says summer like the sweet aroma of Memorial Day Grilled Corn wafting through the air. Imagine biting into a perfectly charred ear of corn, the kernels bursting with buttery goodness and a hint of smokiness that dances on your palate. refreshing summer beverage perfect pairing with grilled corn It’s like a flavor explosion, and trust me, your taste buds will be throwing a party. easy party appetizer. For more inspiration, check out this Zesty Lemon Basil Chicken Piccata recipe.
As you gather around the grill with friends and family, laughter fills the air. Memories are made over this simple yet delightful dish that has become a staple at every backyard barbecue. Each bite reminds me of those sun-soaked afternoons spent listening to stories, sharing laughter, and indulging in delicious food. What better way to celebrate than with corn that’s grilled to perfection?
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The ease of preparation makes this grilled corn a go-to for any barbecue
- Its sweet flavor pairs well with various dishes, making it versatile
- The vibrant yellow color adds visual appeal to your plate, making everyone want to dig in
- Plus, it’s an absolute crowd-pleaser that will have your guests coming back for seconds
The last time I made Memorial Day Grilled Corn, my uncle proclaimed it was “life-changing,” while my cousin tried to eat three ears in one sitting—definitely a success!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Fresh Corn on the Cob: Look for bright green husks and plump kernels; they should feel firm when squeezed.
Butter: Choose unsalted butter for better control over seasoning; it melts beautifully over hot corn.
Salt: A sprinkle of sea salt enhances sweetness; adjust to your personal taste preferences.
Pepper: Freshly cracked black pepper adds an extra kick; use sparingly if you want a milder flavor!
Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice brightens the flavors; it’s the perfect zesty finishing touch.
Chili Powder (optional): A dash of chili powder can elevate the flavor profile if you like a little heat. patriotic dessert option.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Memorial Day Grilled Corn
Prepare Your Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 400°F (200°C). This temperature is crucial for achieving those perfect char marks.
Husk the Corn: Remove the husks and silk from each ear of corn. Rinse them under cold water to remove any residual silk strands.
Soak the Corn (optional): If you prefer more moisture during grilling, soak the husked corn in water for about 10 minutes. This helps keep it juicy while cooking.
Grill the Corn: Place each ear directly on the grill grates. Cook for about 10-15 minutes, turning every few minutes until all sides are nicely charred.
Add Butter and Seasonings: Once grilled, slather each ear with melted butter while hot. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and if desired, a dash of chili powder for an exciting twist.
Squeeze Lime Juice Over It All!: Finish off by squeezing fresh lime juice over each ear of corn before serving. This step brings everything together beautifully.
Now you’re ready to serve up some delicious Memorial Day Grilled Corn! Gather your loved ones around as they indulge in this delightful treat that’s simple yet unforgettable!
You Must Know
- Grilling corn for Memorial Day is a summer favorite
- The smoky flavor combined with the sweetness of the corn creates a delightful combination that everyone loves
- This dish is not only easy to prepare but makes your backyard smell amazing too
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat, then soak the corn in water for about 30 minutes before grilling. This keeps it moist and prevents burning while enhancing that delicious smoky aroma.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to add spices or herb butter to elevate the flavor. Try garlic powder, chili powder, or even a sprinkle of parmesan cheese for an extra zing. For more inspiration, check out this Honey Garlic Butter Roasted Carrots recipe.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover grilled corn in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, wrap it in foil and place on a hot grill for about 5-7 minutes.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Soaking corn prevents it from drying out while grilling
- Always check for doneness by piercing kernels; they should be tender and juicy
- Use fresh corn if possible for the best flavor and sweetness
Sharing my first attempt at grilling corn brings back fond memories—let’s just say my friends had a good laugh when I mistook smoke for seasoning!
FAQ
How long should I grill corn on the cob?
Grill the corn for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally until tender.
Can I grill frozen corn?
Yes, but it’s best to thaw it first for even cooking and better texture.
What toppings go well with grilled corn?
Try lime juice, butter, cotija cheese, or spicy mayo for delicious flavors!
Memorial Day Grilled Corn
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Experience the ultimate summer side with Memorial Day Grilled Corn! This dish features fresh corn grilled to perfection, boasting a smoky flavor and buttery richness that will tantalize your taste buds. Ideal for summer gatherings, this easy-to-make recipe pairs beautifully with any barbecue spread, promising to be a crowd favorite at your next outdoor celebration.
Ingredients
- 4 ears of fresh corn on the cob
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon sea salt (to taste)
- ½ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper (to taste)
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- ¼ teaspoon chili powder (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F/200°C).
- Husk the corn, removing silk and rinsing under cold water.
- Soak the corn in water for about 10 minutes (optional for moisture).
- Grill the corn directly on the grates for 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally until charred.
- Brush each ear with melted butter and season with salt, pepper, and chili powder if desired.
- Squeeze fresh lime juice over each ear before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ear of corn (140g)
- Calories: 177
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 305mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
