Memorial Day Grilled Corn on the Cob Recipe

Name: Memorial Day Grilled Corn on the Cob
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 ears fresh corn on the cob; 4 tbsp unsalted butter; 1 tsp sea salt; ½ tsp freshly cracked black pepper

Published: April 5, 2025

by Clara Harper

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Memorial Day Grilled Corn on the Cob is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy cooks.
The smoky flavor paired with fresh toppings creates a mouthwatering delight everyone will love.
The vibrant yellow kernels make it visually stunning at any picnic or barbecue table.
Tailor your toppings to suit everyone’s tastes for a truly versatile dish!

I remember one year my brother decided he could “improve” our traditional recipe by adding every spice he could find in the cupboard. Let’s just say we learned that sometimes simpler is better!

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 but not hard.
Butter: Use unsalted butter for a richer flavor; you can also melt it with herbs for added taste.
Salt: A pinch of sea salt will enhance all those delicious flavors coming from your grilled corn.
Pepper: Freshly cracked black pepper adds just the right amount of kick; don’t be shy!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Before we get grilling, let’s break down our process into easily digestible bites.

Prep Your Grill: Fire up your grill and get it nice and hot at about 350°F (175°C). You want that perfect sear without burning everything!

Husk Those Ears: Peel back the husks from each ear of corn and remove any silk strands hiding between those sweet kernels. Give them a quick rinse under cold water.

Add Some Flavor: Melt some butter in a small bowl and stir in salt and pepper to taste. You can even toss in garlic powder or chili powder if you’re feeling adventurous!

Grill Away!: Place your prepared corn directly onto the grill grates. Cook for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally until they turn golden brown with lovely grill marks.

Topping Time!: Once your corn is grilled to perfection, slather it with your buttery mixture. Feel free to sprinkle additional toppings like parmesan cheese or fresh herbs!

Enjoy that first bite as you relish how those kernels burst with flavor while you soak up the sun!

Now go ahead and savor every juicy morsel of your Memorial Day Grilled Corn on the Cob—it’s bound to steal hearts (and stomachs) at any gathering!

You Must Know

Grilled corn on the cob is a summer classic; it’s simple yet packed with flavor.
Perfectly charred, sweet, and buttery, it becomes an irresistible side.
This dish can elevate any barbecue, bringing back memories of sunny days and laughter with friends and family.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by soaking the corn in water for 30 minutes to keep it juicy while grilling. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, about 400°F, then place the corn directly on the grates. Grill for 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally until tender and slightly charred.

Add Your Touch

Consider adding spices like paprika or chili powder to your butter for a kick. You can also experiment with fresh herbs such as cilantro or basil for a fragrant twist. Feel free to drizzle lime juice over the top for an extra zing!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover grilled corn in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, wrap in foil and warm on a grill or oven at 350°F until heated through, maintaining that delightful char.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Soak your corn before grilling; it retains moisture and enhances flavor.
Always check for doneness by piercing kernels with a fork; they should be tender but not mushy.
Lastly, let your corn rest after grilling to allow flavors to meld beautifully.

My friend once told me that grilled corn is like summer on a stick! Every bite reminds me of backyard barbecues filled with laughter and sunshine. The joy of sharing this dish brings people together in the most delicious way.

FAQ

How do I know when my corn is done grilling?

Look for bright yellow kernels that are tender when pierced; this takes about 10-15 minutes.

Can I grill corn without soaking it?

Yes, but soaking helps keep it moist and prevents burning during grilling.

What are some toppings for grilled corn?

Try butter, cheese, lime juice, or spices like chili powder for added flavor.

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📖 Recipe Card