Grilling Corn Plus 7 Recipes To Make The Most of Corn Season

It's corn season. The end of August begins to signal the end of summer, but it is not the end of summer produce. In fact the farmer's markets, local farms, and backyard gardens are  bursting with the end of summer's bounty - especially corn on the cob!! It' now at its height.

There is nothing like fresh corn on the cob right from the farm. It is sweet, tender, and packed with flavor, and there are so many ways to enjoy it! I hope you will try some of my recipes that I'm sharing today.

In addition to munching it "raw" directly off the cob (if you haven't tried it - you gotta), I like fresh cut off the cob corn in salads, salsas, as a topping in soup, and other recipes. 

When you buy produce from local farms, you're not only supporting nearby farmers but also getting produce that hasn’t been sitting in storage for weeks.

Simple and Delicious Recipe: Grilled Corn on the Cob

Grilled corn on the cob is a summer classic and an easy way to bring out the corn’s natural sweetness. Here's a simple recipe to make the most of this seasonal treat:

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Ingredients:

• Fresh corn on the cob (shucked and cleaned)
• Salt (to taste)
• Optional: Lemon juice, herbs, or spices for extra flavor

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high. If using a charcoal grill, ensure the coals are hot and spread evenly.

2. Prepare the Corn: Shuck the corn and remove all the silk. Soak the corn in water for about 10-15 minutes before grilling. This helps to keep the corn moist and adds a bit of steam during cooking.

3. Grill the Corn: Place the corn directly on the grill grates. Turn the corn occasionally, cooking for about 10-15 minutes, or until the kernels are tender and have some nice char marks. The soaking step will help prevent burning and keep the corn juicy.

4. Season and Serve: Remove the corn from the grill. Sprinkle with a little salt to taste. For added flavor, you can squeeze a bit of lemon juice over the corn or sprinkle with your favorite herbs or spices like paprika, chili powder, or garlic powder.

Optional Topping Ideas:

• Lemon Juice: Adds a bright, tangy flavor.
• Herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, or chives can be chopped and sprinkled on top.
• Spices: Experiment with spices such as cumin, paprika, or chili powder for a different twist.

For Off-the-Cob: After grilling, let the corn cool slightly. Use a sharp knife to carefully cut the kernels off the cob. Toss the kernels with a bit of salt and your choice of seasoning, or add them to salads, salsas, or other dishes.

This oil-free approach lets the natural flavors of the corn come through and is a healthy alternative that’s just as delicious without any added fat.

Corn Contains Antioxidants and Phytochemicals:

• Lutein and Zeaxanthin: These antioxidants are beneficial for eye health and can help protect against age-related macular degeneration.
• Ferulic Acid: An antioxidant that may help reduce inflammation.

Health Benefits

1. Good Source of Fiber: The dietary fiber in corn aids in digestion and may help maintain healthy bowel movements.
2. Rich in Vitamins: Corn provides essential vitamins such as Vitamin C and B vitamins, which are important for immune function, energy metabolism, and overall health.
3. Antioxidant Properties: The antioxidants in corn help combat oxidative stress within the body.

Be Aware: The Impact of Genetically Modified Corn

While enjoying fresh corn, it’s important to consider the source of your produce. Genetically modified (GMO) corn seeds have been genetically engineered to resist pests and herbicides, but this process may impact our health in a negative way:

1. Health Concerns: Some studies suggest that GMO grown foods may have potential health risks, including allergic reactions, long-term harmful effects on the body, and may be difficult for some people to digest causing uncomfortable digestion issues. 

2. Environmental Impact: GM corn often requires more chemical inputs, such as herbicides, which can harm local ecosystems and reduce biodiversity and be harmful to bees that are essential for vegetation.

   
   

   

   Choosing Non-GMO Alternatives

To avoid these issues, consider opting for non-GMO, organic corn from local organic farms. Organic farming avoids and or limits the use of synthetic pesticides and herbicides. Plus, organic often tastes better because it’s grown with care and attention to soil health. If corn doesn't say NON-GMO- it is almost always genetically modified.

When shopping, look for certifications like “Non-GMO Project Verified” or “Certified Organic” to ensure you’re getting corn that’s been grown without genetic modifications. My local farmer's market has organic farm stands with organic corn that is non-GMO

Try some of my fresh corn recipes

Fresh Corn and Blueberry Salad

Jersey Raw Corn and Tomato Salad

Chilled Zucchini Corn and Lime Soup

Black Bean and Fresh Raw Corn Salad 

Corn, Cilantro, and Cucumber Salad with Creamy Lime Dressing

Jicama Rainbow Salad with Raw Corn and Fresh Mint

Mexican Corn and Bean Bake (contains cheese)  - this was one of my favorites before I stopped eating dairy. Can be made with vegan cheese. 

Made with fresh uncooked corn cut right off the cob

My Notes: 

1. My gluten-free vegetarian blog has changed, but remains gluten-free. It became vegan and oil-free in 2022. The recipes prior to 2022 may contain cheese/dairy and or oil. You can substitute vegan cheese in recipes and omit the oil. 

Disclaimer: I am not a medical doctor and am not trying to diagnose disease or give medical advice. Always consult your medical doctor for medical advice and before making changes to your diet. The information on this blog is striclty for educational purposes only.