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Flavorful Grilled Corn on the Cob with Herb Butter

grilled corn on the cob with herb butter - featured image

A simple and delicious grilled corn on the cob recipe featuring fresh herb butter that enhances the smoky, buttery, and fresh flavors perfect for summer BBQs.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 ears fresh corn on the cob, husks intact
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh chives, finely chopped
  • 1 small clove garlic, minced (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • ½ teaspoon sea salt
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Herb Butter: In a mixing bowl, combine 4 tablespoons of softened unsalted butter, 2 tablespoons chopped parsley, 1 tablespoon chopped chives, 1 minced garlic clove, 1 teaspoon lemon zest, ½ teaspoon sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Mix until evenly incorporated. Set aside in the fridge to firm up slightly while prepping the corn (about 5 minutes).
  2. Prep the Corn: Peel back the husks of each ear carefully without detaching them. Remove the silk threads from each ear. Rinse the corn under cool water to wash away remaining silk. Fold the husks back over the corn. Brush each ear lightly with 1 tablespoon olive oil to prevent sticking and encourage caramelization (10 minutes).
  3. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high, about 375°F to 450°F (190°C to 230°C). If using charcoal, wait until coals are covered with gray ash. Oil your grill grates lightly using a folded paper towel dipped in oil and tongs to prevent sticking.
  4. Grill the Corn: Place the ears on the grill with husks on. Grill for 15-20 minutes, turning every 5 minutes to ensure even cooking. The husks will char, steaming the corn inside and infusing smoky flavor. Kernels should be plump and tender when peeled back slightly.
  5. Apply Herb Butter: Once grilled, carefully peel back the husks completely (use tongs or gloves as corn will be hot). Slather the warm corn generously with the prepared herb butter, allowing it to melt into every crevice.
  6. Final Touch: Optionally sprinkle extra fresh herbs or squeeze fresh lemon juice over the corn just before serving.

Notes

Keep the husks on while grilling to steam the corn and preserve moisture. Use softened butter at room temperature for easy mixing and spreading. Turn corn every 5 minutes for even cooking. Wrapping corn in foil for the last 5 minutes can help retain moisture. Herb butter can be made ahead and chilled. For dairy-free, substitute butter with plant-based alternatives.

Nutrition

Keywords: grilled corn on the cob, herb butter, summer BBQ, easy side dish, fresh herbs, smoky corn, summer recipe