What to Serve with Corn on the Cob

Corn on the cob is a classic summertime side dish that is versatile, easy to cook, and delicious. Whether boiled, grilled, air fried or roasted, corn on the cob is delicious, easy to cook, and pairs well with many main dishes. When deciding what to serve with corn on the cob, plenty of options will elevate your meal and make it even more enjoyable.

Whether it's grilled, boiled, air fried or roasted, corn on the cob always adds a touch of sweetness to any meal. Special sauces and toppings will enhance the flavor of the corn and add a touch of personality to this popular side. There are plenty of options that will perfectly complement its taste and texture.

Best Time of Year to Buy Corn on the Cob

Corn on the cob is a summertime staple, but did you know that the season you buy this delicious vegetable can affect its quality and taste? While corn is available year-round, there are certain times of the year when it's at its peak.

One of the best times to buy corn on the cob is late spring and early summer. This is when fresh sweet corn starts appearing in farmers' markets nationwide. The weather at this time provides optimal growing conditions for corn, resulting in tender kernels that burst with sweetness when cooked.

Another great season for buying corn on the cob is late summer to early fall. During this time, corn has had plenty of time to mature and develop its full flavor profile. It's also the best time to harvest corn, so you know it will be at its peak freshness. Look for a creamy yellow hue on the corn and firm kernels that should be plump and feel heavy in your hand. Avoid corn that looks limp or is starting to shrivel.

Best Methods When Cooking Corn on the Cob

When deciding what to eat with corn on the cob, it is best to decide what cooking method will enhance flavor and fit nicely with the chosen main entree. Whether you boil, grill, roast, air fry, or microwave your corn, you are certain to enjoy every last kernel.

To Boil:

Peel back the husks and remove the silk from each ear. Rinse under cold water to remove any remaining debris. Then, place your ears of corn in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Add a pinch of salt to enhance their flavor. Bring your pot to a boil over high heat before reducing it to medium-low heat for 10-12 minutes until they are tender but still slightly crunchy when bitten into.

To Grill:

Soak your corn in salted water for 10 minutes. Cover them on a grill over medium heat with aluminum foil. Grill for 15-20 minutes or until tender but slightly crunchy.

To Roast:

Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Remove husks and silks from corn. Place on a baking sheet covered with foil, and cover with another piece of foil. Bake for 30 minutes or until tender. Serve immediately!

To Airfry:

Make sure to check out how easy it is to cook corn on the cob inside an air fryer.

To Microwave:

Remove husks and silk. Place in a microwave-safe container with a small amount of water (2-3 tablespoons). Cook on high for 4-5 minutes or until tender but slightly crunchy.

Sauces and Seasoning Ideas

Corn on the cob is a mouth-watering treat that many people enjoy during summer barbecues or as a side dish with their meals. When choosing what to serve with corn on the cob, don't forget to elevate your tasty experience; try these topping ideas:

First up, garlic butter. Garlic and butter are two ingredients that complement each other well, and when combined with sweet corn, they create an irresistible combination. Melt some butter in a pan and add minced garlic to it. Brush this mixture over your cooked corn for a tasty kick. You can also add some chopped parsley for added flavor.

Mexican street-style corn toppings, including mayo, chili powder, lime juice, and cotija cheese. This combination gives your corn on the cob an explosion of flavors that will leave your taste buds wanting more.