Memorial Day Grilled Corn is a burst of summer in every bite, bringing smoky sweetness that dances on your taste buds. The moment you unwrap the foil to reveal those perfectly charred kernels, your senses come alive with the aroma of grilled goodness. refreshing summer drink.
Picture this: It’s Memorial Day, the sun is shining, and laughter fills the air as friends gather around the grill. This corn dish isn’t just food; it’s a nostalgic hug from your childhood and a must-have at every backyard barbecue. Trust me; the experience is as delightful as the flavors themselves.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The ease of preparation makes this grilled corn a crowd-pleaser for any occasion
- Each ear bursts with flavor, enhanced by simple ingredients that shine through beautifully
- Visually appealing and aromatic, it adds a pop of color to your picnic spread
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to complement any main dish or stand alone as a snack!
Ingredients for Memorial Day Grilled Corn
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Fresh Corn on the Cob: Opt for sweet, juicy corn with bright green husks; it’s best when picked fresh.
- Olive Oil: A drizzle of high-quality olive oil adds richness and helps seasonings stick to the corn.
- Salt: Just a pinch can elevate the sweet flavor of the corn while balancing its natural sugars.
- Pepper: Freshly cracked pepper brings a bit of heat and depth to each bite.
- Lime Juice: A squeeze of fresh lime juice brightens up the flavors and adds a zesty kick.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Memorial Day Grilled Corn
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prep Your Corn
Begin by shucking the corn; peel away those green husks and silk strands until you have clean ears of corn. Rinse them under cool water and pat dry.
Step 2: Season It Up
In a bowl, mix together olive oil, salt, pepper, and freshly squeezed lime juice. Brush this vibrant mixture over each ear of corn generously; it’s like giving them a spa day. For more inspiration, check out this Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl recipe.
Step 3: Fire Up Your Grill
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375°F or 190°C). You want it hot enough to give that beautiful char but not so hot that you’ll turn your corn into charcoal.
Step 4: Grill Time
Place the seasoned corn directly on the grill grates. Cook for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally until all sides are tender and slightly charred. Pro tip: Keep an eye on them—no one likes burnt offerings.
Step 5: Finishing Touches
Once done, remove the corn from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. Drizzle with more lime juice if desired and sprinkle additional salt or even some chili powder for extra flair.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Transfer to serving plates or a big platter for family-style enjoyment. Watch everyone dive in as they savor each juicy bite!
Memorial Day Grilled Corn isn’t just about filling bellies; it’s about creating memories around shared meals filled with laughter and joy. So fire up that grill and get ready for compliments galore!
You Must Know
- This delicious Memorial Day Grilled Corn recipe is not just about great taste; it’s also a fun, interactive dish that brings people together
- The smoky aroma combined with the sweet crunch of corn makes for a perfect summer side, ideal for gatherings or backyard barbecues
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by prepping your corn and soaking it in water for about 30 minutes to keep it juicy on the grill. Meanwhile, gather your spices and make your marinade. Once the corn is ready, throw it on the grill while you whip up any sides or drinks.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to spice things up! Consider adding chili powder, lime juice, or even grated Parmesan cheese for an extra kick. You can also experiment with different herbs like cilantro or basil to give your Memorial Day Grilled Corn a unique flair.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover grilled corn in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For reheating, pop it in the microwave for a minute or two or toss it back on the grill for a quick warm-up.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Don’t be shy about experimenting with flavors; grilled corn loves company!
- Always soak your corn before grilling to prevent burning
- And remember, fresh corn tastes best when cooked right off the cob!
I once hosted a barbecue where my best friend declared my grilled corn “the reason he got out of bed that morning.” It felt like I had won a culinary Oscar right then and there!
FAQs:
What is the best way to prepare Memorial Day Grilled Corn?
The best way to prepare Memorial Day Grilled Corn involves soaking the ears in water for about 30 minutes before grilling. This method helps to keep the corn moist and prevents it from drying out. After soaking, peel back the husks, remove the silk, and then fold the husks back over the corn. Grill over medium-high heat for around 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally. For added flavor, consider brushing the corn with butter or your favorite seasoning before grilling. For more inspiration, check out this Honey Butter Skillet Corn recipe.
Can I grill frozen corn for Memorial Day?
Yes, you can grill frozen corn for Memorial Day. However, it’s best to thaw it first by leaving it in the refrigerator overnight or running it under cold water. Once thawed, you can place the corn directly on the grill or skewer it. Cooking time will be shorter than fresh corn, usually around 10-15 minutes. Brush with olive oil and season as desired for a delicious side dish.
What toppings are good for Memorial Day Grilled Corn?
Memorial Day Grilled Corn pairs wonderfully with various toppings that enhance its flavor. Classic options include butter, salt, and pepper. For a gourmet twist, try adding crumbled feta cheese, chopped cilantro, lime juice, or a sprinkle of chili powder. You can also experiment with flavored butters like garlic herb or spicy sriracha butter to add an exciting kick to your grilled corn.
How can I store leftover grilled corn?
To store leftover Memorial Day Grilled Corn, allow it to cool completely before wrapping each ear in aluminum foil or placing them in an airtight container. Store them in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat on the grill or in an oven at 350°F until heated through. This way, you can savor your delicious grilled corn even after the holiday celebration!
Conclusion for Memorial Day Grilled Corn:
In summary, Memorial Day Grilled Corn is a delightful addition to your holiday barbecue. By soaking the corn beforehand and using flavorful toppings, you can elevate this simple dish into a mouthwatering treat. Whether you choose fresh or frozen corn, grilling enhances its natural sweetness and provides that smoky flavor we all love during summer gatherings. sweet summer dessert option Enjoy this recipe at your next cookout and make lasting memories with family and friends!
Memorial Day Grilled Corn
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Memorial Day Grilled Corn is a must-have summer side dish that brings vibrant flavors and smoky sweetness to your backyard barbecue. This easy recipe transforms fresh corn on the cob into a mouthwatering delight, perfect for sharing with family and friends. With just a handful of simple ingredients, you can create irresistibly charred corn that evokes memories of sun-soaked gatherings and joyful laughter. Get ready to impress your guests with this flavorful treat that captures the essence of summer!
Ingredients
- 4 ears fresh corn on the cob
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp freshly cracked pepper
- Juice of 1 lime
Instructions
- 1. Prep Your Corn: Shuck the corn, removing husks and silk. Rinse under cool water and pat dry.
- 2. Season It Up: In a bowl, mix olive oil, salt, pepper, and lime juice. Brush the mixture generously over each ear of corn.
- 3. Fire Up Your Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (375°F).
- 4. Grill Time: Place seasoned corn on the grill grates. Cook for 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally until tender and slightly charred.
- 5. Finishing Touches: Remove from grill and let rest for a few minutes. Drizzle with additional lime juice or sprinkle with chili powder if desired.
- 6. Serve and Enjoy: Transfer to a platter for sharing.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ear of grilled corn (approximately 100g)
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
