How to Cook Corn on the Cob
Corn on the cob makes one of the best side dishes for summertime. Perfect for incorporating into fresh summer salads, adding to soups, salsas, and casseroles, or simply serving on its own, corn is one versatile veggie. Plus, it’s easy to cook it in so many different ways. Follow these simple tips and tricks to know how many ears to use, how to select corn at the grocery store, how to cook corn on the cob in three different ways, and how to cut the kernels off the cob safely.
How Much Should You Cook?
Two medium ears of corn yields about 1 to 1¼ cups corn kernels.
How to Pick Out the Perfect Corn
When picking out fresh corn from the grocery store, choose corn with bright green husks. Feel the kernels through the husks or tear back the husk to peek at the corn. (Careful, though, as tearing the husk shortens the shelf life of the corn.) Select ears with kernels in tightly packed rows and moist, pale yellow silk peeking out of the ear.
Boiling
Boiling is one of the most popular ways to cook corn on the cob. Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Remove the corn husks and place the corn into the boiling water. Cover the pot, let the water return to a boil and cook the corn for 5 to 7 minutes. Remove the corn from the water and add desired toppings like butter and salt.
In the Microwave
Microwave corn on the cob – it’s fast and easy. Place a single layer of cleaned ears in a glass, microwavable dish with a couple tablespoons of water or milk. (Some Midwest cooks say the milk brings out the corn’s natural sweetness even more.) Cover and cook on high 9 to 12 minutes for 4 ears, rearranging once during cooking time.
On the Grill
Nothing says summertime like grilled corn on the cob! This perfect backyard barbecue side dish couldn’t be easier to make. Just heat the grill to high and lightly oil the grate. Peel back the corn husks and remove the silk. Place 1 tablespoon of butter on each ear, sprinkle with salt and pepper an close the husks again. Wrap each ear in aluminum foil and place on the prepared grill. Cook for about 20 minutes or until the corn is tender, rotating about every 5 minutes.
Cut Safely
Cut corn kernels off fresh cobs safely! First, slice the cob in half crosswise and stand it on its flat, cut end. Use a sharp chef’s knife and cut kernels off the ear, one side at a time.
Looking for some fresh corn recipes for summer? Try our Grilled Corn, Black Bean and Edamame Salad with Cilantro-Lime Vinaigrette, BBQ Corn Salad, and Fresh Corn Salad.