One of the summer’s best treats is corn on the cob, and these grilled corn ideas take things to a whole new level.

There’s almost nothing better in the whole world than grilled corn on the cob. The fresh, sweet, crunchiness of corn is the very essence of everything that is great about summertime, and grilling turns already amazing corn into something truly sublime.

How to Grill Corn

There are two methods for grilling corn. One is to grill it with the husk on and the other way is to remove the husks before grilling. There are pros and cons to both methods. Leaving the husks on (soak first in cold water for about 15 minutes) makes the job of removing the husks easier, while removing the husks before grilling allows for more chargrill action to happen. There is no right or wrong way; it really is just a matter of taste (and prep time).

If you find yourself with a plethora of corn this summer, you may wonder just what to do with grilled corn besides enjoying it straight off the cob. We have put together some great grilled alternatives.

Grilled Corn Ideas

1. Cornbread

Cornbread is already amazing, but consider tossing in some grilled corn cut off the cob into your favorite recipe for a taste explosion. Mark Bittman’s cornbread recipe is just a little bit tangy and would work well with the addition of some grilled bits of corn.

2. Corn and Bean Salsa

Toss black beans, chopped heirloom tomatoes, diced onion, crushed garlic, cilantro, lime juice, salt and pepper along with some grilled corn for a dish perfect enough to eat alone, as a side dish, or as a snack with tortilla chips.

3. Colombian Chicken, Corn, and Potato Soup

Soup might not seem like regular summertime fare, but this soup will make you change your mind. It’s the perfect lunchtime meal to warm up anybody stuck in air-conditioning all day. This version of the soup doesn’t call for it, but we recommend grilling the corn before adding it to the soup. It can be made vegetarian by substituting the chicken with tofu or chicken substitute and using vegetable stock. Leave out the cream for a vegan version. Eat this with cornbread for extra points.

4. Corn Salad

Grill whole ears of corn, cut the kernels off the cob, and toss them onto any salad for an instant treat. You can do this ahead of time and use the grilled corn as one of the layers in a make-ahead mason jar salad. One tasty combination is spicy arugula, grilled corn, chickpeas, roasted grape tomatoes, pickled onions, avocado, Tessemae’s (or homemade) zesty ranch dressing.

5. Seafood Foil Packets

Foil packets are an easy, clean, and tasty way to cook on the grill. Simply place your favorite seafood (shrimp, whitefish, salmon) along with diced potatoes, cut up ears of corn, butter, oil, lemon and spices like garlic and old bay in foil and wrap up to form a pocket. Grill until foods are cooked through and enjoy! No muss, no fuss.

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Zucchini and Corn Fritters Recipe

Grilled Corn on the Cob Image via Shutterstock

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