Nothing is more quintessentially summer than knowing, and enjoying, how to cook corn on the cob! As the perfect mild and sweet canvas for a range of flavors, there are so many ways how to cook corn on the cob and enjoy this fiber-rich, warm-weather veggie. Although corn can be prepared in a variety of different ways including steaming, boiling, and microwaving, grilling will be our method of choice with summer’s sizzle just around the corner. But first thing’s first – here is the lowdown on what makes corn such an amazing and versatile staple crop:
- Corn 101
- Debunking corn myths
- How does corn stack up nutritionally?
- Here you have 5 ways how to cook corn on the cob:
- How to Cook Corn on the Cob: Grilled Mexican Street Corn – Gluten-Free
- How to Cook Corn on the Cob: Asian Style Corn on the Cob – Ⓥ Vegan
- How to Cook Corn on the Cob: Caribbean Style Corn on the Cob – Ⓥ Vegan AND Gluten-Free
- How to Cook Corn on the Cob: Simple Garlic Parmesan Corn on the Cob – Gluten Free
- How to Cook Corn on the Cob: Herbed Grilled Corn on the Cob – Gluten Free
- Final Words…
Corn 101
Known as one of the most popular cereals in the world, corn was first domesticated over 8,000 years ago in Mexico. It has been a staple ingredient in human diets for thousands of years. Interestingly enough, much of the corn produced today in the United States is not consumed directly by humans but instead used for the production of corn products like starch, syrup, or animal feed.
Corn season lasts from May through September – peaking in the summer. As a dietitian, I encourage my clients to eat along with the seasons. In-season produce is generally more affordable, nutritious, and readily available in stores and markets. Corn is no exception and there are many ways how to cook corn on the cob, especially when June rolls around. One thing to note is that it is important to consume corn the day it is purchased or close to that since corn begins to lose its natural sweetness as soon as it is picked.
Looking for more types of seasonal foods? Download our free seasonal grocery list.
One thing that makes corn so unique is that it is considered both grain and vegetable. Dried and ground corn is considered a grain, while fresh corn is considered a vegetable. Corn naturally is also gluten-free, making it a good grain option for those with gluten sensitivities or intolerances.
Debunking corn myths
Corn has gotten a bad rap lately with one reason being its sugar content. Yes, corn is sweet for a vegetable, but that doesn’t make it unhealthy. The glycemic index of just “corn” can vary, but cooked corn has an estimated glycemic index of 56, which is considered moderate. The glycemic index is a value assigned to foods based on how slowly or quickly they cause increases in blood glucose levels.
Additionally, corn indeed is one of the most genetically modified crops in the United States. While research on the safety of genetically modified corn for humans is limited and often conflicting, it is still an area of strong debate. If you are concerned about eating genetically modified crops, simply look for the non-GMO label.
How does corn stack up nutritionally?
Carbohydrates
Corn is primarily made up of carbohydrates, which are our body’s main source of energy. Sweet corn is a commonly consumed variety that is higher in sugar and lowers in starch. The most common varieties of sweet corn are yellow, white, and bi-colored.
Fiber
Corn, like all vegetables, is a good source of fiber. Corn primarily consists of insoluble fiber, which is important for digestion and the elimination of free radicals.
Vitamin B5
B vitamins are important for breaking down food and converting it to energy. Vitamin B5, also known as pantothenic acid, is one of the most important B vitamins also needed for making hormones and keeping the immune system strong.
Antioxidants
Corn contains a slew of antioxidants, including carotenoids, which provide immune support and help prevent or mitigate cell damage brought on by free radicals.
Here you have 5 ways how to cook corn on the cob:
How to Cook Corn on the Cob: Grilled Mexican Street Corn – Gluten-Free
This popular Mexican street food is the perfect crowd-pleasing entrée for your summer soirees. The combination of sweet corn, savory cheese, and spicy chili powder will keep your taste buds guessing. This twenty-minute side dish can easily become part of your weeknight appetizer rotation this summer.
Recipe: Grilled Mexican Street Corn
- Serves: 8
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 10 minutes
- Total time: 20 minutes
Ingredients:
- 8 ears of corn, shucked
- 2 tbsp avocado oil
- 1/2 cup cotija cheese, crumbled
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- chili powder
- salt and pepper to taste
- fresh cilantro, chopped
Directions:
Preheat the grill to medium-high. Brush corn with avocado oil and grill until slightly charred, turning often. Brush corn with mayonnaise and sprinkle with cotija cheese, chili powder, and cilantro. Serve immediately.
How to Cook Corn on the Cob: Asian Style Corn on the Cob – Ⓥ Vegan
Put an Asian twist on this classic summer side with soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and brown sugar. The combination of salty, sweet, and umami will have you making this veggie side all summer long.
Recipe: Asian Style Corn on the Cob
- Serves: 5
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 50 minutes
Ingredients:
- 8 ears of corn, shucked
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/2 cup seasoned rice vinegar
- 2 cloves of garlic, crushed and minced
- 1/4 tsp ginger
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 2 tbsp sesame oil
Directions:
Preheat the grill to medium-high. Brush corn with sesame oil and grill until slightly charred, turning often. In a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, and brown sugar until uniform. Brush onto grilled corn and serve immediately.
How to Cook Corn on the Cob: Caribbean Style Corn on the Cob – Ⓥ Vegan AND Gluten-Free
This Caribbean-style corn on the cob is brimming with aromatic spices, which are low in calories but high in flavor. This lower-calorie recipe is perfect for those looking for a lighter take on classic corn on the cob that doesn’t lack in the flavor department.
Recipe: Caribbean Style Corn on the Cob
- Serves: 8
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 10 minutes
- Total time: 20 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 tbsp garlic
- 8 ears of corn, shucked
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp celery salt
- 1/4 tsp allspice
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/4 tsp chili powder
Directions:
Preheat the grill to medium-high. Brush corn with olive oil and grill until slightly charred, turning often. Add seasonings to a large mixing bowl and combine until uniform. Toss corn with seasonings until coated. Serve immediately.
How to Cook Corn on the Cob: Simple Garlic Parmesan Corn on the Cob – Gluten Free
Is there any better flavor combination than garlic and Parmesan? This match made in flavor heaven is the ideal simple accompaniment to our favorite grilled summer veggie. Plus, cheese adds additional protein for staying power along with calcium for strong and healthy bones.
Recipe: Simple Garlic Parmesan Corn on the Cob
- Serves: 8
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 10 minutes
- Total time: 20 minutes
Ingredients:
- 8 ears of corn, shucked
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup parsley, minced
Directions:
Preheat the grill to medium-high. Grill corn until slightly charred, turning often. Transfer to a serving plate. In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together butter, parmesan cheese, garlic, and parsley. Pour over corn and serve immediately.
How to Cook Corn on the Cob: Herbed Grilled Corn on the Cob – Gluten Free
Spices and herbs steal the show in this simple summer side. In addition to being tasty, this option is perfect for your guests who enjoy dairy but are gluten-free or those simply looking for a lower-calorie option.
Recipe: Herbed Grilled Corn on the Cob
- Serves: 8
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 10 minutes
- Total time: 20 minutes
Ingredients:
- 8 ears of corn, shucked
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, minced
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 2 tbsp fresh basil, minced
- 2 tbsp cilantro, minced
- 1/2 tsp salt
Directions:
Preheat the grill to medium-high. Grill corn until slightly charred, turning often. Transfer to a serving plate. Whisk together butter and herbs in a small bowl and pour over corn.
Final Words…
Be sure to try some of this delicious grilled corn on the cob preparations while the summer is ripe with this crop. These can be especially great for an easy weeknight side dish or even for entertaining guests! With its long history and consistent popularity, you can always count on corn on the cob to find its audience of happy people and satisfied palates.
If you don’t have the option to grill your corn on the cob, you can check out this easy air fryer corn recipe!
How much time do you boil corn on the cob?
Boil the corn for 4 to 5 minutes, or until the kernels are bright yellow and crisp-tender. With tongs, carefully remove from the water to a serving tray, then warmly serve.
What’s the best way to cook corn on?
The maize is added after bringing a large pot of water to a boil. Cook for 3 to 5 minutes, or until the corn is soft and bright yellow, tossing regularly to ensure that the corn is completely covered. Alternately, put the corn in a sizable pot that has cold water in it. With butter, salt, and pepper, drain and serve warm.
Do you cook corn in cold water or boiling water?
Remove the silk and husk. Include in a pan with cold water (the water should cover all the corn). Cover the stove and raise the heat to high. The corn is done when the water boils.
Read more from our “Snack Series”:
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Mia Syn is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist, national on-air nutrition expert and host of Good Food Friday on ABC Charleston. She holds a Bachelor of Science in nutritional science physiology and a Master of Science in human nutrition from two of the top universities in the country, Columbia and the University of California, Berkeley. As one of the most recognized and trusted young dietitians in the media, her content serves as a healthy lifestyle resource for millions of television viewers and readers around the globe.
