Perfect Grilled Corn on the Cob: A Summer Classic

As late summer approaches, our family gatherings are always highlighted by one delicious staple: grilled corn on the cob. Grilled corn on the cob is perfect for almost any occasion, like hosting a lively barbecue or enjoying a cozy family dinner. Grilled corn steals the show every time.

For years, we've made it a tradition to pick up fresh corn from a local farm just outside Pittsburgh. My parents always take local corn with them when they visit Jaime, who lives a few hours away. Jaime loves their corn, and it instantly brightens everyone's day.

Grilled corn on the cob is the ultimate summer treat. Its sweet, smoky flavor and satisfying crunch make it irresistible. To elevate your grilled corn experience, wrap it in aluminum foil before tossing it on the grill. This simple trick enhances the corn's natural sweetness and makes it super tender—all while cutting down on the cleanup!

Here’s a straightforward step-by-step guide to help you achieve that perfectly grilled corn on the cob wrapped in foil.

Ingredients

• 4 ears of corn, husked and cleaned

• 2 tablespoons of olive oil or melted butter

• Salt, to taste

• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

• Optional: your favorite herbs, spices, or cheese for added flavor

Instructions

1. Prepare the Corn: Start by removing the husks and silk from the corn. Be sure to get as much of the silk off as possible to avoid any burnt pieces sticking to the kernels. You can also break the corn in half if it’s too large to fit on your grill or if you prefer smaller portions.

2. Season the Corn: Spread a thin layer of softened butter over each ear of corn. This will help to keep the corn moist and add rich flavor. Season the corn with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Feel free to get creative with additional seasonings—garlic powder, paprika, and a pinch of cayenne can add some nice depth to the flavor.

3. Wrap in Aluminum Foil: Tear off large sheets of aluminum foil, ensuring they are big enough to fully enclose each ear of corn. Place each ear of corn in the center of a foil sheet. Before sealing, add a few tablespoons of water onto the corn. This extra step helps create steam, which keeps the corn moist and flavorful. Fold the sides of the foil over the corn to form a tight packet, making sure the foil is well-sealed to trap the steam and enhance the flavors.

4. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat, around 400°F (200°C). If you’re using a charcoal grill, let the coals burn until they’re covered with a white ash. For a gas grill, preheat it and then turn one side to low for indirect cooking.

5. Grill the Corn: Place the foil-wrapped corn directly on the grill grates over medium heat. Close the grill lid and cook for about 15-20 minutes, turning the packets occasionally to ensure even cooking. The foil helps trap the steam, so the corn will cook evenly and stay tender.

6. Check for Doneness: After about 15 minutes, carefully open one of the foil packets to check if the corn is cooked. The kernels should be tender and juicy. If they need a bit more time, reseal the foil and continue grilling for a few more minutes.

7. Serve and Enjoy: Once the corn is cooked to your liking, carefully remove the foil packets from the grill. Be cautious of the hot steam when unwrapping. Serve the corn directly from the foil or transfer it to a plate. You can add a bit more butter, salt, and any additional seasonings or herbs you like.

Tips for Perfect Foil-Wrapped Corn

• Foil Quality: Use heavy-duty aluminum foil for best results. Regular foil might tear or not hold up as well to the heat.

• Seasoning Variations: Experiment with different seasoning blends or flavored butters. Try a blend of herbs like rosemary and thyme or a spicy mix of chili powder and cumin.

• Pre-Soaking: Although not necessary, soaking the corn in water for about 30 minutes before grilling can help it stay moist and add a bit of extra steam.

Variations

1. Herb-Infused Corn: Before wrapping the corn in foil, place a few sprigs of fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary on the buttered corn. The herbs will infuse their flavors into the corn as it grills.

2. Parmesan and Garlic Corn: Mix grated Parmesan cheese with minced garlic and a bit of chopped parsley. Sprinkle this mixture over the buttered corn before wrapping it in foil for a savory twist.

3. Spicy Lime Corn: Combine melted butter with lime juice and a pinch of chili powder. Brush this mixture over the corn before wrapping it up. Once grilled, add a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for a zesty kick.

Conclusion

Grilling corn on the cob in aluminum foil is a fantastic way to savor this summer staple with minimal effort. Wrapping the corn keeps all the moisture and flavor locked in, ensuring each bite bursts with juiciness and delight. Whether hosting a lively barbecue or enjoying a relaxed dinner at home, this method will impress your guests and elevate your meal.

Experience the joy of perfectly grilled corn while benefiting from the easy cleanup that foil-wrapping provides. If you try this method, I’d love to hear your thoughts! Share your experiences or any tips in the comments below. Happy grilling!🌽🔥