Imagine sinking your teeth into a freshly grilled ear of corn, the smoky aroma wafting through the air and the sweet kernels bursting with flavor. Now, picture that corn slathered in a tangy lime butter that adds a zesty kick to every bite. This recipe for grilled corn on the cob with lime butter is a perfect balance of savory and citrusy, making it the ultimate summer side dish. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, you’ll have this delicious treat ready to serve in no time. So fire up the grill, gather your loved ones, and get ready for a taste sensation that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Grilled Corn on the Cob with Lime Butter
Who doesn’t love the taste of sweet, juicy corn on the cob? And when you add a tangy lime butter to the mix, it takes this classic summer dish to a whole new level. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or just craving a tasty side dish for dinner, this recipe for grilled corn on the cob with lime butter is sure to be a hit. So fire up the grill and get ready to indulge in a burst of flavor!
Ingredients
To make the grilled corn on the cob with lime butter, you will need the following ingredients:
- 6 ears of corn
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 1 teaspoon lime zest
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon chili powder (optional)
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Preparation
Before you can start grilling the corn, there are a few important preparation steps to follow. This will ensure that your corn is cooked to perfection and ready to be slathered in delicious lime butter.
Removing the Husks
To remove the husks from the corn, start by peeling back the outer layers. Gently pull down the husks from the top of the ear of corn until they are completely removed. Be careful not to tear the husks as you’ll want to use them later to help seal in the flavor while grilling.
Removing the Silk
Once the husks are removed, you’ll need to remove the silk from the corn. Silk refers to the fine hair-like strands that are found between the husks and the corn kernels. Simply peel back the husks to expose the silk and then use your hands or a brush to remove as much of it as possible. Be thorough in this step to ensure that you’re left with clean, silky-smooth corn.
Soaking the Corn
Before grilling, it’s a good idea to soak the corn in water for about 30 minutes. This will help prevent the husks from burning while on the grill and will also help keep the corn moist and flavorful. Fill a large bowl with water and add the corn. Allow the corn to soak for the recommended time, ensuring that each ear is fully submerged. This step is crucial for achieving perfectly grilled corn on the cob.
Grilling
Now that you’ve prepped the corn, it’s time to fire up the grill and start cooking. Follow these simple steps to achieve deliciously charred corn on the cob.
Preparing the Grill
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Make sure the grates are clean and well-oiled to prevent the corn from sticking. If you’re using a gas grill, preheat it with the lid closed for about 10 minutes. If you’re using a charcoal grill, wait until the coals are white and glowing before placing the corn on the grates.
Grilling the Corn
Place the soaked corn directly on the grill grates. Cover the grill and let the corn cook for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure even cooking. The corn is done when the kernels are tender and slightly charred. Remove the corn from the grill and set aside to cool slightly before slathering it with the delicious lime butter.
Making Lime Butter
The star of this grilled corn recipe is the tangy lime butter that adds a burst of citrus flavor to each bite. Here’s how to make it:
Softening the Butter
Start by letting the unsalted butter soften at room temperature. This will make it easier to blend with the other ingredients and create a smooth and creamy lime butter.
Adding Lime Juice and Zest
In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, fresh lime juice, and lime zest. The lime juice will add tanginess, while the zest will provide a bright citrus aroma. Stir the mixture well to ensure that all the flavors are evenly incorporated.
Seasoning with Salt, Pepper, and Chili Powder
To enhance the flavors even further, add salt, black pepper, and chili powder to the lime butter mixture. The salt will bring out the natural sweetness of the corn, while the black pepper will add a hint of heat. The chili powder is optional but can add a smoky and slightly spicy kick to the lime butter.
Mixing Well
Once all the ingredients are combined, use a spoon or spatula to mix them thoroughly. You want a smooth and well-blended lime butter that is easy to spread on the grilled corn.
Chilling the Lime Butter
After mixing, transfer the lime butter to a small dish or container and refrigerate it for about 30 minutes. This will allow the flavors to meld together and the butter to firm up slightly.
Serving Suggestions
Now that you have perfectly grilled corn on the cob and a delicious lime butter, it’s time to bring it all together. Here’s how to serve this tasty dish:
Brushing the Corn with Lime Butter
Once the corn has cooled slightly, use a pastry brush or a spoon to generously brush the lime butter over each ear of corn. Make sure to coat all sides for maximum flavor. The lime butter will melt slightly on the warm corn, creating a mouthwatering glaze.
Garnishing with Fresh Cilantro (optional)
For an extra pop of freshness and color, consider garnishing the grilled corn with fresh cilantro leaves. Sprinkle a handful of cilantro leaves over the lime butter-coated corn to add a burst of herbal flavor. This step is optional but can elevate the presentation and taste of the dish.
Plating and Indulging
Place the grilled corn on a serving plate and bring it to the table with pride. The vibrant colors and enticing aroma will surely make mouths water. Encourage your guests to dig in and savor every bite of this delicious grilled corn on the cob with lime butter. It’s a true summer delight that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
In conclusion, grilled corn on the cob with lime butter is a must-try recipe for any corn lover. The combination of smoky, charred corn and tangy lime butter creates a flavor explosion that will leave you craving more. Whether you’re grilling up a batch for a barbecue or simply enjoying a cozy night at home, this recipe is a winner. So grab some fresh ears of corn, fire up the grill, and get ready to indulge in the perfect blend of sweet, savory, and citrus flavors. Bon appétit!