As with asparagus and strawberries, corn is one of the best summer produce items out there. The possibilities for cooking with corn are endless, and I think most people would agree that corn on the cob is one of their favorite summertime meals.
If you want your corn on the cob to be full of flavor, there are two basic ingredients that you should consider adding to the pot you’re boiling the corn in — milk and butter. Many people swear by this tactic, and I’ve tried it myself a few times. The verdict? So yummy.
Before placing the corn in the pot, add about a cup of milk and a few tablespoons of butter to the boiling water. When the corn is done cooking (about 7-8 minutes), it will be packed full of delicious flavor. Easy enough, right?
If you’re looking to spice up the way you cook corn this summer, check out these drool-worthy recipes:
Grilled Mexican Street Corn
This delicious recipe features a tangy, creamy sauce that tastes amazing drizzled over some grilled corn. This would be a great side dish to serve at a summer BBQ
🌽 Grilled Mexican Street Corn (Elote)
Ingredients:
- 4 ears of corn (husks removed)
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream (or Mexican crema)
- 1/2 cup cotija cheese (crumbled)
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tbsp chopped cilantro (optional)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
Instructions:
- Grill the corn over medium-high heat, turning occasionally, until charred (8–10 minutes).
- In a bowl, mix mayo, sour cream, and lime juice.
- Brush the mixture onto the grilled corn.
- Sprinkle with cotija cheese, chili powder, and cilantro.
- Serve with lime wedges on the side.
🔥 Tip: Add a dash of hot sauce for extra heat!
Summer Corn Salad
If you’re looking for a light, healthy salad to eat with lunch or dinner, this is it
🥗 Summer Corn Salad
Ingredients:
- 3 cups fresh corn (grilled or boiled, then cut off the cob)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
- 1/2 cucumber (diced)
- 1/4 red onion (finely chopped)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro or parsley (chopped)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt & pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/2 avocado (diced), feta cheese
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine corn, tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and herbs.
- Drizzle with olive oil and lime juice.
- Season with salt and pepper, toss gently.
- Add avocado or feta if desired. Serve chilled or at room temp.
🌽 Tip: Use grilled corn for extra smoky flavor!
Cheddar Bacon Ranch Corn
Cheddar, bacon, and ranch? Need I say more?
🧀🥓 Cheddar Bacon Ranch Corn
Ingredients:
- 4 cups corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup cooked bacon (crumbled)
- 2 tbsp ranch dressing or ranch seasoning mix
- 2 tbsp butter
- Salt & pepper to taste
- Optional: chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
- In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add corn and cook for 5–7 minutes until heated and slightly golden.
- Stir in ranch dressing, cheddar cheese, and bacon.
- Cook until cheese melts and everything is well mixed.
- Season to taste, garnish with green onions, and serve warm.
🔥 Tip: Try it as a side dish for BBQ or tacos!
