Memorial Day is all about sunshine, barbecues, and the irresistible smell of grilled corn wafting through the air. Imagine sinking your teeth into a perfectly charred ear of corn, each bite bursting with sweet, smoky goodness. This isn’t just any corn; it’s Memorial Day Grilled Corn, the highlight of your summer festivities.
Whether it’s a family gathering or a casual weekend hangout, this dish will make your taste buds dance with joy. The combination of spices and that lovely smoky flavor will have everyone begging for seconds—and maybe even thirds! So grab your grill and let’s get ready to elevate your barbecue game.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Memorial Day Grilled Corn is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for those lazy summer days
- The flavor profile is a delightful mix of sweet and savory that will excite your palate
- Its vibrant color adds a touch of charm to any platter, making it visually appealing
- Plus, you can easily customize it to suit any gathering or BBQ theme!
Ingredients for Memorial Day Grilled Corn
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Fresh Corn on the Cob: Look for plump ears with bright green husks and moist silk for the best flavor.
Olive Oil: A drizzle of good quality olive oil enhances flavor and helps seasonings stick.
Butter: For that rich creaminess that makes everything better—don’t skimp here!
Salt: Sea salt works wonders in bringing out the natural sweetness in corn.
Paprika: Adds a subtle smokiness and a pop of color to your corn.
Lime Juice: A squeeze of fresh lime juice adds brightness that balances the rich flavors.
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: Prepare Your Corn
Start by shucking the corn. Remove all husks and silk strands from each ear. Rinse them under cold water to ensure they’re clean—because nobody wants a mouthful of silk!
Step 2: Season Like You Mean It
In a large bowl, combine olive oil, melted butter, salt, paprika, and lime juice. Toss the corn in this tasty mixture until each ear is well coated. Feel free to dance around while doing this; it adds flavor! For more inspiration, check out this Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl recipe.
Step 3: Preheat the Grill
Fire up your grill! Preheat it to medium-high heat (about 400°F/200°C). If you don’t have a grill, you can always use a grill pan on your stovetop—just be sure not to let it feel left out.
Step 4: Grill Those Ears
Place the seasoned corn directly on the grill grates. Grill for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally until you notice those beautiful char marks forming. Keep an eye on them—no one likes burnt offerings!
Step 5: Serve with Flair
Once grilled to perfection, remove the corn from the grill and let it rest briefly (if you can resist!). Drizzle some extra melted butter over them and sprinkle with additional salt if desired.
Step 6: Enjoy!
Serve hot with lime wedges on the side for that perfect zingy finish. Trust me; your guests will be raving about this dish long after they’ve finished eating!
You are now equipped with all you need for an unforgettable Memorial Day feast featuring glorious grilled corn! Enjoy every sweet bite as you celebrate summer in style!
You Must Know
- This delightful Memorial Day Grilled Corn recipe not only brings vibrant flavors to your barbecue but also sparks joy in the hearts of your guests
- Simple yet versatile, it’s the perfect side for any summer gathering, ensuring your grill parties are unforgettable
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by soaking the corn in water for about 30 minutes while you prepare your grill. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Once heated, place the corn directly on the grill and cook for 10-15 minutes, turning frequently until charred and tender.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to jazz up your corn with various toppings! Consider adding lime juice, parmesan cheese, or even a sprinkle of chili powder. You can also swap out traditional butter for herb-infused olive oil for a unique twist.
Storing & Reheating
To store leftover grilled corn, wrap it in aluminum foil or place it in an airtight container and refrigerate. When reheating, simply warm it up on the grill or in the oven at low heat for best results.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For optimal flavor, always soak your corn before grilling to keep it juicy
- Don’t forget to turn it regularly for even cooking
- Experiment with different seasonings to discover your favorite combination
Memorial Day last year was special when I brought this grilled corn to our family barbecue. Everyone raved about how buttery and smoky it tasted, which made my heart swell with pride!
FAQs:
What is the best way to prepare Memorial Day Grilled Corn?
The best way to prepare Memorial Day Grilled Corn is to soak the husked corn in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling. This helps keep the corn moist and enhances its flavor during cooking. You can also season the corn with butter, salt, and your favorite herbs after grilling. perfect pairing with grilled corn For extra flavor, try adding cheese or spices. This method ensures that the corn remains juicy and delicious, making it a perfect addition to your summer barbecue.
How long should I grill corn for Memorial Day celebrations?
For Memorial Day celebrations, grill the corn for about 10-15 minutes over medium heat. Turn the corn every few minutes to ensure even cooking. The kernels should be tender and slightly charred when done. If you prefer a smokier flavor, leave the corn on the grill for a few extra minutes. Always check for doneness by piercing a kernel; it should release a milky juice when cooked perfectly.
Can I use frozen corn for grilling?
While fresh corn is ideal for grilling, you can use frozen corn if necessary. To grill frozen corn, first thaw it completely and dry it well to prevent steaming on the grill. Wrap individual cobs in foil with seasonings of your choice before placing them on the grill. Keep in mind that grilled frozen corn may not have the same texture as fresh, but it can still be tasty when prepared properly for your Memorial Day feast.
What are some creative toppings for Memorial Day Grilled Corn?
There are countless creative toppings for Memorial Day Grilled Corn that can elevate this dish. Consider using lime butter, crumbled feta cheese, or chili powder for an exciting twist. You could also drizzle balsamic glaze or sprinkle fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley on top. tasty vegetable side dish Experimenting with different toppings can make your grilled corn stand out at any gathering, adding variety to your Memorial Day menu.
Conclusion for Memorial Day Grilled Corn:
In conclusion, Memorial Day Grilled Corn is a delightful addition to your holiday barbecue spread. By soaking, seasoning, and grilling the corn properly, you’ll achieve deliciously tender kernels bursting with flavor. Remember to experiment with various toppings to impress your guests and enhance their overall experience. festive dessert option Whether you choose classic butter or creative toppings like feta or lime butter, grilled corn will surely be a memorable dish for all your summer celebrations. Enjoy this festive treat!
Memorial Day Grilled Corn
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Memorial Day Grilled Corn is the ultimate summer side dish that brings vibrant flavors and cheerful colors to your barbecue spread. Each ear of corn is grilled to perfection, offering a delightful smoky sweetness that pairs beautifully with lime and butter. Easy to prepare, this dish not only enhances your festive gatherings but also has everyone coming back for more. Whether enjoyed as-is or topped with your favorite seasonings, this grilled corn will be the star of your Memorial Day celebration!
Ingredients
- 4 ears fresh corn on the cob
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Juice of 1 lime
Instructions
- Shuck the corn, removing husks and silks. Rinse under cold water.
- In a bowl, mix olive oil, melted butter, salt, paprika, and lime juice. Toss corn in the mixture until well coated.
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat (400°F/200°C).
- Grill corn for 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally until charred.
- Serve hot with extra melted butter and lime wedges.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Vegetable Side
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ear of corn (approximately 100g)
- Calories: 170
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
