Corn is a versatile and delicious ingredient that shines in many summer dishes. Whether you prefer it grilled, boiled, or baked, corn can be used in creative ways to enhance your meals.
You can discover new and exciting ways to enjoy this sweet and crunchy vegetable. From light salads to hearty casseroles, these corn recipes offer something for everyone.
1) Grilled Corn on the Cob
Grilling corn on the cob is a simple and delicious way to enjoy fresh corn. Start by preheating your grill to high heat, about 450-500°F.
Keep the corn in its husk but remove the outermost layer. Snip the top end of the silk to prevent it from catching fire. Place the corn directly on the grill grates.
Close the grill lid and cook for about 5 minutes. Rotate the corn halfway through to get even grill marks on each side. The husk helps steam the corn, making it tender and juicy.
You can also grill corn wrapped in foil. Coat the corn in butter, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and wrap tightly in foil. Place the foil-wrapped corn on the grill and cook for 8-10 minutes.
Once done, remove the corn from the grill. Peel back the husks or foil. Slather with butter and add any toppings you like, such as cheese, herbs, or spices.
2) Corn and Black Bean Salsa
Corn and black bean salsa is a tasty and colorful dish that’s great for summer. You can serve it with tortilla chips, on tacos, or as a side for grilled meats.
Start by cooking the corn until it’s slightly golden. You can roast it in a skillet or grill it.
Let the corn cool completely before mixing it with the other ingredients.
Combine black beans, diced tomatoes, red onion, and jalapeño in a large bowl. Stir in lime juice and olive oil.
If you like, add some seasonings like cumin and salt to taste. Fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro can also add extra flavor.
Mix everything gently to avoid mashing the beans. Cover the bowl and let the salsa sit for about 30 minutes. This helps the flavors blend well.
3) Corn Chowder
Corn chowder is a delicious and hearty soup that brings out the natural sweetness of corn. To make it, start by sautéing diced onions in a large pot until they become translucent. Next, add diced potatoes and your choice of broth. Bring this to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer until the potatoes are tender.
In a separate pot, combine milk and cream, and heat until just boiling. Add this creamy mixture to the pot with the potatoes, along with fresh or frozen corn kernels. Let the soup simmer for a few more minutes to thicken.
You can also include other vegetables like carrots, celery, and bell peppers. Sauté these along with the onions to soften them before adding the potatoes. For extra flavor, cook some bacon, and use the rendered fat to sauté the vegetables. Crumble the bacon and add it as a topping when serving.
Corn chowder can be seasoned with salt, pepper, and herbs like thyme. Serve it hot, and enjoy the comforting flavors. This soup is perfect for a cozy night in or as a starter for larger meals.
4) Mexican Street Corn (Elote)
Mexican Street Corn, also called Elote, is a popular snack often sold by street vendors. To start, you need fresh corn on the cob. You can grill the corn or boil it, depending on your preference.
For grilling, shuck the corn and either wrap it in foil or leave it with the husk pulled back. Grill the corn over medium heat, turning often until tender, usually about 25-30 minutes.
After cooking, spread a mix of sour cream, mayonnaise, lime juice, and spices like cayenne pepper and cumin over the corn. Sprinkle cilantro on top for extra flavor.
Some recipes also suggest adding grated cheese like Cotija or parmesan. This adds a salty kick that pairs well with the creamy topping.
Mexican Street Corn is usually served with lime wedges. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the corn just before eating. This tangy twist makes the flavors pop.
If you prefer, you can remove the kernels from the cob and toss them with the mix for an easier-to-eat option called Esquites.
Enjoy this tasty dish as a snack or a side at your next BBQ. It’s simple to make and packed with flavor.
5) Cornbread
Cornbread is a delicious and versatile dish that you can make quickly. It’s perfect for pairing with soups, stews, or enjoying on its own.
To start, preheat your oven to the recommended temperature, usually around 350°F to 400°F. Use either a cast iron skillet or a baking dish.
In a bowl, mix dry ingredients like flour, cornmeal, baking soda, and salt. In another bowl, whisk together wet ingredients such as melted butter, sugar, and eggs.
Combine the wet and dry ingredients until well mixed. Fold in any additional ingredients like whole kernels of corn or creamed corn.
Grease your skillet or baking dish with butter and pour in the batter. Bake for the recommended time, which can vary depending on the size of your pan.
Once done, let it cool slightly before cutting into pieces. Cornbread is best served warm, with a bit of butter on top.
You can customize cornbread by adding jalapeños, cheese, or honey for different flavors. Enjoy experimenting to find your favorite version!
6) Corn Fritters
Corn fritters are a tasty, easy-to-make snack or side dish. You start with fresh or canned corn kernels. Combine them with flour, baking powder, a bit of sugar, salt, and pepper.
Next, mix in eggs and heavy cream until you get a smooth batter. Heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Drop spoonfuls of the batter into the hot oil.
Cook the fritters for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. Once cooked, let them drain on paper towels.
For added flavor, you can incorporate ingredients like green onions, chives, or a pinch of cayenne pepper in the batter. Serve your corn fritters warm.
They are perfect on their own or with a dipping sauce like sour cream or spicy mayo. Enjoy!
7) Creamed Corn
Creamed corn is a beloved dish that combines the natural sweetness of corn with a rich and creamy sauce. You can use fresh, frozen, or even canned corn for this recipe, making it versatile and convenient.
Start by sautéing finely chopped onion in butter until it’s soft. This adds a base of flavor. Then, add your corn kernels. If you’re using frozen corn, make sure it’s thawed.
Next, you need to create the creamy sauce. Combine milk, cream, and a little bit of flour to thicken it. Stir this mixture with the corn and onions until it starts to thicken. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
For an extra touch of flavor, you can add some fresh or dried thyme. Use an immersion blender to blend part of the mixture if you like a smoother texture. This step is optional but can enhance the creaminess.
This creamy side dish is perfect for holidays or any family meal. It pairs well with roasted meats and vegetables, making it a versatile addition to your table.
8) Corn Pudding
Corn pudding is a classic dish that combines sweet and creamy flavors. It’s a favorite at family gatherings and holiday meals. This dish is simple to make and uses basic ingredients you likely have on hand.
To start, preheat your oven to 400°F and grease a 2-quart casserole dish. This helps the pudding cook evenly and prevents sticking.
In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, melted butter, sugar, and cornstarch until smooth. Make sure the cornstarch is fully dissolved to avoid lumps.
Next, add both whole kernel corn and cream-style corn to the egg mixture. Stir until everything is well mixed.
Pour the mixture into the prepared casserole dish. Bake for about an hour, or until the top is golden brown and the pudding is set.
The creamy texture and sweet corn make this dish a hit. Serve it warm, and enjoy the comforting taste of homemade corn pudding.
9) Corn Salad
Corn salad is a great dish to add to your summer meals. It is light, fresh, and easy to make. You can use fresh or frozen corn, making it versatile for any time of year.
Start by boiling or grilling the corn until it is tender. Once cooked, let it cool and cut the kernels off the cob.
Mix the corn with cherry tomatoes, crumbled feta, and finely chopped red onion. Add some chopped herbs like basil or cilantro for extra flavor.
For the dressing, a simple mix of olive oil, lime juice, and salt works well. You can also add a bit of honey for sweetness.
Serve the salad chilled for the best taste. This dish pairs well with grilled meats or can be enjoyed on its own as a light meal.
10) Cornbread Muffins
Cornbread muffins are a delicious and easy addition to any meal. You start by prepping your muffin tin with liners or a non-stick spray. These muffins can be made with a blend of cornmeal and flour, which creates a perfect texture.
You’ll need to mix dry ingredients like cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt in one bowl. In another bowl, whisk together wet ingredients such as milk, eggs, butter, and oil until smooth.
By combining the wet and dry ingredients, you get a batter that’s ready to be spooned into the muffin tin. Fill each tin about two-thirds full.
Bake the muffins at 350°F to 400°F for around 15 to 20 minutes. When a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, they’re ready. These muffins are best served warm and can be enjoyed with a spread of butter or honey.
11) Corn and Avocado Salad
Corn and avocado salad is fresh, simple, and tasty. You’ll love its bright flavors and vibrant colors. It’s perfect for a summer picnic or a light lunch.
Start by cutting fresh corn kernels from the cob. If fresh corn isn’t available, canned or frozen corn works too.
Add diced avocados to the corn. Make sure to toss them in lemon or lime juice to keep them fresh and bright.
Mix in chopped tomatoes, red onions, and jalapeno peppers for a bit of heat. Cilantro adds a fresh, herbal note.
For the dressing, whisk together olive oil, more lemon or lime juice, sea salt, and black pepper. Drizzle it over the salad and gently toss to combine.
Serve the salad chilled, and enjoy its delicious combination of sweet corn and creamy avocado.
12) Sweet Corn Soup
Sweet Corn Soup is a comforting and delicious dish. Start by sautéing some onions, garlic, and corn kernels. This step helps enhance their flavors.
Add vegetable stock, salt, and pepper to the mixture. Use an immersion blender to puree it until smooth and creamy. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can use a regular blender instead.
For a richer soup, consider adding some heavy cream at the end. This will make the soup even more silky and smooth.
You can also try seasoning it with red pepper flakes for a bit of heat or fresh parsley for added freshness. Enjoy your Sweet Corn Soup warm.
13) Corn Casserole
Corn casserole is a comforting dish that’s great for any occasion.
To start, preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Lightly grease a baking dish. You can use a 9×9-inch or an 8×8-inch dish, depending on your preference.
In a medium bowl, mix whole corn, creamed corn, cornbread mix, sour cream, melted butter, and eggs. Stir until everything is well combined. Pour the mixture into the prepared dish.
For a creamier version, you might add some shredded cheddar cheese. About half a cup should be enough. If you like a bit of heat, consider adding some chopped jalapenos.
Bake the mixture in the preheated oven. It usually takes around an hour for the top to turn golden brown.
To check if it’s done, insert a toothpick into the center. It should come out clean. If you prefer a more caramelized top, you can move the dish to the top oven rack for the last few minutes.
Corn casserole can be served hot from the oven. It’s a delicious side dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses.
14) Corn and Tomato Salad
If you’re looking for a quick and tasty summer dish, corn and tomato salad is a great choice. It combines fresh ingredients and can be ready in just 15 minutes.
Start by removing the kernels from fresh corn on the cob. This gives the salad a sweet and crunchy texture.
Next, add halved cherry tomatoes. They bring a burst of juiciness and vibrant color to the mix.
Dice some red onion for a bit of bite. The onions add a nice contrast to the sweetness of the corn and tomatoes.
Toss these ingredients in a large bowl. For extra flavor, add fresh basil or mint, and a simple dressing made from lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
This salad pairs well with grilled chicken or shrimp. You can also enjoy it with a slice of sourdough bread for a complete meal.
Feel free to get creative by adding ingredients like cotija cheese or cilantro. This can enhance the flavor and make the dish more interesting.
This simple corn and tomato salad is perfect for summer and goes well with almost any meal you prepare. Enjoy its refreshing taste and vibrant look!
15) Corn Risotto
Corn risotto is a creamy and flavorful dish that balances the sweetness of corn with the richness of risotto.
Start by melting butter in a heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add leeks or onions and cook until they are soft. Stir in the rice and cook until it’s slightly translucent.
Slowly add warm broth a ladle at a time, stirring constantly. This helps release the rice’s starch, creating the creamy texture risotto is known for.
Incorporate fresh or canned corn early in the cooking process. This allows the corn to soften and blend with the rice.
For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine or vermouth.
Finish the risotto by stirring in additional butter and grated Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve your corn risotto hot, perhaps topped with fresh herbs or crispy pancetta for added texture. Enjoy the delightful combination of creamy rice and sweet corn.
Health Benefits of Corn
Corn is packed with essential nutrients, including dietary fiber and vitamins, which promote overall health. Let’s explore the nutritional value, dietary fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals found in corn.
Nutritional Value
Corn is a low-fat, high-carbohydrate food that offers a decent amount of protein. A cup of cooked corn contains around 130 calories, 4 grams of protein, and 2 grams of fat. It’s a good source of carbohydrates, providing the energy you need for daily activities.
Corn is also rich in fiber. It provides about 12% of the recommended daily intake. This helps in maintaining a healthy digestive system. The combination of protein and fiber ensures that you feel full longer, which can be beneficial for weight management.
Dietary Fiber
Fiber is one of the key ingredients in corn that contributes to good digestive health. Consuming adequate fiber helps in promoting regular bowel movements and preventing constipation.
Regular intake of fiber-rich foods like corn can aid in maintaining healthy blood sugar levels. This is especially helpful for individuals with diabetes. Fiber also helps in lowering cholesterol levels, which is crucial for heart health.
Corn’s fiber content can make you feel full and satisfied, reducing overall calorie intake. This can be particularly useful if you are trying to manage your weight.
Essential Vitamins and Minerals
Corn is a good source of several essential vitamins and minerals. It contains significant amounts of vitamin C, B vitamins (including B6 and folate), and minerals like magnesium and potassium.
Vitamin C in corn acts as an antioxidant and supports the immune system. B vitamins, like B6 and folate, are crucial for energy production and the formation of red blood cells. Folate is especially important for pregnant women as it helps in fetal development.
Magnesium and potassium found in corn contribute to healthy muscle function and the maintenance of normal blood pressure levels. These minerals are essential for overall cardiovascular health.
Cooking Techniques for Corn
There are several ways to cook corn, each bringing out unique flavors and textures. We’ll explore grilling, boiling, and roasting methods to help you make perfect corn every time.
Grilling
Grilling corn infuses it with a smoky flavor that pairs well with grilled meats and veggies. Start by peeling back the husks but not removing them. Remove the silk and then fold the husks back into place. Soak the corn in water for about 10 minutes. This step keeps the husks from burning and helps steam the corn.
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the corn on the grill, turning occasionally, for about 15-20 minutes. The husks will char, but the kernels will be tender and slightly caramelized. You can add butter, salt, and other seasonings once the corn is off the grill to taste.
Boiling
Boiling is one of the simplest and quickest ways to cook corn. Start by shucking the corn and removing all the silk. Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil. Add a tablespoon of sugar or a few drops of milk to enhance the sweetness of the corn.
Once the water is boiling, add the corn and cover the pot. Boil the corn for 4-6 minutes. Avoid overcooking as it can make the kernels mushy. After boiling, remove the corn with tongs and let it cool slightly before serving. Adding butter and a pinch of salt will elevate the flavor.
Roasting
Roasting corn brings out its natural sweetness and adds a rich, toasty flavor. Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. Remove the husks and silk from the corn. Wrap each ear individually in aluminum foil to keep it from drying out.
Place the wrapped corn on a baking sheet and roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes. Turn the corn halfway through the cooking time to ensure even roasting. Once done, carefully unwrap the corn and serve with your favorite toppings like butter, herbs, or spices. Roasting gives the corn a tender yet firm texture that is deliciously enhanced by the oven’s heat.
Corn in Global Cuisines
Corn is a versatile ingredient found in various dishes around the world. It’s a staple in many traditional recipes, showcasing its adaptability and cultural significance.
Mexican Cuisine
In Mexican cuisine, corn is a cornerstone. You will encounter it in many forms, like tortillas, tamales, and elote. Tortillas are made from masa harina and used for tacos and quesadillas. Elote, or Mexican street corn, is grilled, slathered in mayonnaise, and sprinkled with cheese and chili powder. Tamales are masa dough filled with meats or cheeses and steamed in corn husks. Corn is also used in pozole, a traditional soup made with hominy and pork, garnished with fresh vegetables.
American Southern Cuisine
Southern cuisine in the United States features corn in numerous beloved dishes. Cornbread is a staple often served with BBQ or chili. You may find grits, a dish made from boiled cornmeal, typically served as a breakfast item or side dish. Hushpuppies, deep-fried cornmeal balls, are a favorite at fish fries and seafood boils. Succotash, a mixture of corn and lima beans, is a classic comfort dish. These dishes highlight the Southern tradition of easy, hearty, and flavorful cooking.
Asian Cuisine
Though less dominant than in the Americas, corn still finds its way into various Asian dishes. In Korean cuisine, corn cheese is a popular bar snack. This dish mixes corn with cheese, mayonnaise, and sugar, then bakes it until bubbly and golden. Cambodian grilled corn is another example, where corn is grilled and basted with a mix of coconut milk and brown sugar. Chinese-style corn soup commonly features creamed corn and chicken broth, yielding a thick, comforting soup. These dishes show how corn can complement and enhance a variety of Asian flavors.
