This post may contain affiliate links. For more info, please read our full disclosure here
Corn, with its sweet and golden kernels, is the quintessential taste of summer.
There’s something undeniably delightful about biting into a juicy ear of corn, whether it’s roasted to perfection on the grill or simmering in a bowl of comforting chowder.
This humble yet versatile ingredient has the power to elevate any meal, adding a burst of natural sweetness and a satisfying crunch.
And its not just about the summertime. Regardless of the season, this tasty veggie can make for a great addition to any plate. Not to mention it’s super nutritious too.
If you’re looking for the best corn-inspired recipe to enjoy, then you’re in luck. In this post, you’ll discover 28 incredible corn recipes to satisfy your cravings.
From classic corn on the cob slathered in butter to creative dishes that fuse global flavors with this humble grain, we’ve curated a collection that caters to all tastes and preferences.
Whether you’re a fan of classic Southern cornbread, looking for a lighter option like corn salad, or craving comfort in the form of a velvety corn and potato soup, our corn recipes offer something for every palate and occasion.
From appetizers to sides, mains and more, these recipes showcase the incredible versatility of this seasonal veggie.
Let’s get right into it.
Pin it
Nutritional Info
Corn is not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients that make it a valuable addition to a healthy diet.
One cup of cooked corn contains
- around 143 calories,
- 3.5 grams of protein, and
- 2.5 grams of fiber.
It also provides a range of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin B6, folate, and potassium.
One of the most notable nutrients in corn is fiber, which plays a vital role in digestion and gut health. Fiber helps to keep you feeling full and satisfied, which can aid in weight management.
Additionally, corn is a good source of antioxidants, such as zeaxanthin and lutein, which help to protect against cell damage and promote eye health.
Corn is also a rich source of complex carbohydrates, which provide a steady supply of energy to fuel the body. It is low in fat and sodium, making it a heart-healthy food choice.
Overall, corn is a nutritious and delicious food that can be enjoyed in a variety of dishes. Whether you prefer it on the cob, in a salad, or as a tasty side dish, you can rest assured that you are getting a range of health benefits from this versatile ingredient.
How to Choose the Best Corn
Corn is a beloved summer staple, and nothing beats the satisfaction of biting into a sweet, juicy ear of corn that’s in season.
However, choosing the best can be a bit of an art. To savor the full sweetness and freshness of this quintessential summer vegetable, here’s a seasonal guide on how to select the best corn for your table.
1. Embrace Local and Seasonal
Opting for locally grown corn is the first step in enjoying the best that the season has to offer. Local corn is typically harvested at its peak ripeness, resulting in superior flavor and sweetness.
Farmers’ markets are a fantastic place to find corn that’s both local and seasonal. The corn will likely have been picked just hours before, ensuring maximum freshness.
Plus, supporting local farmers is an excellent way to foster a sense of community and sustainability.
2. Check the Husks
Inspect the outer husks of the corn. They should be vibrant and green, tightly wrapped around the ear.
If the husks are browning or drying out, it’s a sign that the corn may be past its prime. Additionally, feel the kernels through the husks.
They should feel plump and full when gently squeezed, an indication of the corn’s freshness. A consistent size and shape of the kernels are also desirable, as irregularities may suggest uneven ripening.
3. Peek Inside
While it may be tempting to buy corn with the husks still on, peeling back a small section at the top to reveal the kernels is a smart move.
Look for kernels that are bright, plump, and tightly packed, extending all the way to the tip of the cob. If you see large gaps, missing or discolored kernels, it could be a sign of less-than-ideal corn.
The ideal ear of corn should appear full and vibrant, with uniform, tightly spaced rows.
4. Feel for Heft
Weight is a good indicator of moisture content, and for corn, moisture equates to juiciness. Choose ears that feel heavy for their size.
This indicates they’re well hydrated and full of sweet corn juice. Lighter ears may have started to dry out, resulting in a less satisfying eating experience.
Picking up and comparing a few ears will help you get a sense of what feels right. A heavier ear usually means more flavor and juiciness when you bite into it.
5. Smell the Silk
Give the corn’s silk a gentle sniff. Fresh, ripe corn will emit a sweet, earthy aroma. If there’s no scent or if the silk smells musty or sour, it may be an indication that the corn is past its prime.
A sweet scent indicates that the corn is at its peak ripeness, ready to be enjoyed.
Storage
Storing corn properly ensures it retains its sweet, crisp taste. Keep unpeeled corn in the refrigerator, preferably in its husk, as this prevents moisture loss.
If the husk is removed, wrap the corn in a damp paper towel and then encase it in plastic wrap before refrigerating. Consume corn as soon as possible for the freshest flavor, but it can stay good for up to a week.
For longer storage, consider blanching the corn, removing the kernels, and freezing them in airtight bags. This method preserves the taste and texture for several months, allowing you to enjoy corn even out of season.
28 Tasty Corn Recipes
1) Corn Tomato Avocado Salad
Get the recipe at – Feel Good Foodie
2) Scallops with Corn and Tomatoes
Get the recipe at – Skinny Taste
3) Fresh Corn Soup
Get the recipe at – A Couple Cooks
4) Mexican Corn Dip (Hot or Cold)
Get the recipe at – Foodie Crush
5) Baked Parmesan Creamed Corn
Get the recipe at – Le Crème De La Crumb
Also See: 30 Delicious Summer Dinner Ideas That’ll Satisfy Your Cravings
6) Easy Chicken and Corn Chowder
Get the recipe at – Salt And Lavender
7) Mini Sweet Corn Fritters
Get the recipe at – Sweet And Savory By Shinee
8) Creamed Corn
Get the recipe at – Belly Full
9) Corn Salad
Get the recipe at – Cooking Classy
10) Black Bean and Corn Stuffed Jalapenos
Get the recipe at – Spicy Southern Kitchen
Also See: 35 Tasty And Healthy Salads That’ll Leave You Drooling
11) Black Bean Corn Salsa
Get the recipe at – Finding Zest
12) Cheesy Corn Casserole
Get the recipe at – House Of Yum
13) Mexican Street Corn Chicken Salad
Get the recipe at – Chelsea’s Messy Apron
14) Corn Nuggets
Get the recipe at – The Big Man’s World
15) Cheesy Bacon and Corn Stuffed Zucchini Boats
Also See: 30 Incredible Zucchini Recipes You’ve Really Got To Try
16) Sweet Corn Crab Puffs
Get the recipe at – Melissa’s Southern Kitchen
17) Santa Fe Chicken Foil Packets
Get the recipe at – Spend With Pennies
18) Oven-Roasted Corn on the Cob
Get the recipe at – Ahead Of Thyme
19) Vegetarian Succotash
Get the recipe at – Cookie And Kate
20) Shrimp Corn Skillet
Get the recipe at – Garden In The Kitchen
Also See: 25 Healthy Shrimp Recipes To Make With Your Favorite Seafood
21) Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad
Get the recipe at – Midwest foodie
22) Beefy Cornbread Casserole
Get the recipe at – Diary Of A Recipe Collector
23) Blueberry Salad with Grilled Corn
Get the recipe at – Last Ingredient
24) Four Cheese Corn Pizza with Black Pepper & Basil
Get the recipe at – The Original Dish
25) Black Bean and Corn Enchiladas
Get the recipe at – Nourish and Fete
26) BBQ Chicken Tacos
Get the recipe at – Joyous Apron
27) Jalapeno Corn Dip
Get the recipe at – I Am Homesteader
28) Loaded Corn Casserole
