Corn on the Cob on the Grill
Nothing says summer like corn on the cob on the grill. The sweet kernels bursting with crisp starchy juice, the little bits of charred skin, and the deep smoky flavor tastes of summer memories I long to relive. Grilled Corn is the perfect platform on which to experiment with flavors. Who says you have to stick with plain old butter?
Grilled Corn with Smoky Lime Mayo
Grilled Corn with Smoky Lime Mayo is a new favorite in our family. A gutsy blend of hot smoked paprika, lime zest, and MAYONNAISE makes for an unexpected treat. The rich creamy mayonnaise bonds the smoked paprika and lime to the fresh corn and offers intense complexity. Who knew mayonnaise could make such a difference?!? Grilling corn isn’t tricky, but it does seem to be something many people are afraid to try. Let’s discuss the dos and don’ts of corn on the cob on the grill.
Grilled Corn Tips and Tricks
Don’t worry about under-cooking. If your corn is fresh and “in season” it can be eaten raw. Warming it, softening the kernels, and keeping it tender should be your focus.Do be mindful of overcooking. The longer you cook the corn, the more dry and rubbery it becomes. That’s why wrapping it in foil makes such a difference.Don’t worry about the husks. Leave them on, peel them back, or tear them off. All methods are acceptable.Do try using the corn husks as a handle. As stated above, all methods are fine, but pulling the husks back and tying them together provides an attractive natural handle and allows the kernels to get a little char for appearance and flavor.Don’t crank up the heat too much. Medium is fine to warm the corn and tenderize the skin on the kernels. Do slather on the flavorful mayo marinade. It works its magic inside the foil and gives the grilled corn extra flavor and balance.Don’t grill your corn too early. Corn hot off the grill tastes the best.Do grill corn again and again. It’s aromatic, delicious, and a real crowd-pleaser.
Why Should I Use Foil When Grilling Corn?
When you place shucked corn cobs straight on the grill, it cooks fast and developed lovely char marks. However, the direct heat tends to make the skin on the kernels tough. There’s something to be said about this more rustic version of corn on the cob… I personally like it. However, most people prefer grilled corn to be tender. Wrapping each corn cob in aluminum foil protects the corn from the direct heat. The corn steams and grills at the same time, so you get some char marks but end up with a much better texture and sweet corn flavor.
What You Need
Fresh ears of corn on the cobMayonnaise – full fat or low fatLime – zested and juicedHoneyHot smoked paprika – or smoked paprika + a pinch of cayenne pepperSalt
How to Grill Corn on the Cob (in Foil)
How Long to Grill Corn in Foil?
It takes about 15-20 minutes over medium heat.
Can I Grill the Corn without Foil?
Of course, you can! It will have a tougher texture, and will have a little more char on the kernels, but will still taste delicious! Grill at medium heat for 8-10 minutes.
Can I Skip the Foil and Make Grilled Corn in the Husks?
Yes, if you would rather not use aluminum foil, you can brush the corn with the marinade and pull the husks back up around the cobs. This will produce tender corn, just like with foil. However, this method tends to be a bit messier, and you most likely won’t have the option of a “husk handle” after grilling.
Grilled Corn Variations
Don’t like the idea of the Smoky Lime Mayo? Try this recipe with simply salt, black pepper, and a little butter. Or season the mayonnaise with Italian seasoning and garlic powder. You can also brush the corn cobs with olive oil, then sprinkle them with chili powder, cilantro, and cotija cheese. You can even kick up the flavor with our Kimchi Grilled Corn Recipe.
What Should I Serve with Corn on the Cob?
Oh, there are so many options! Serve this recipe with all your favorite summertime dishes like…
Grilled Maple Mustard ChickenBest Summer BurgersMarinated Grilled VegetablesLemon Pepper Grilled CodIndian-Spiced Grilled ChickenGrilled Lamb KebabsBest Macaroni SaladEasy Italian Pasta SaladAmbrosia SaladChunky Greek Village SaladMaine Lobster Rolls
What Other Corn Recipes Will I Love?
Slow Cooker Creamed CornFamous Corn Pudding RecipeAvocado Chicken Salad with CornCorn Salsa Dip with BaconFire Roasted Corn DipGrilled Mexican Street Corn SaladMexican Street Corn Chicken ChiliGrilled Shrimp and Corn
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