There’s something undeniably special about the arrival of summer—the long, sun-kissed days, the vibrant farmers’ markets brimming with fresh produce, and the delightful aroma of corn grilling on the barbecue. Corn, with its sweet, juicy kernels, epitomizes the essence of the season and offers endless culinary possibilities.
From backyard barbecues to light and refreshing salads, Lily’s Weston Market in Weston, CT, is excited to share some delicious ways to enjoy corn this summer.
Grilled Corn on the Cob as a Classic Side Dish
Grilling corn on the cob is a quintessential summer activity. The charred, smoky flavor adds a delightful twist to the naturally sweet corn. Simply peel back the husks, remove the silk, and brush with a mixture of butter, garlic, and herbs. Grill over medium heat for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally until slightly charred. Finish with a sprinkle of sea salt and a squeeze of lime for an extra burst of flavor.
Fresh Corn Kernels Salad with Herbs
For a light and refreshing dish, try a corn salad. Cut the kernels off the cob and combine them with diced tomatoes, red onions, cucumbers, and a handful of fresh herbs like cilantro or basil. Toss with a simple vinaigrette made from olive oil, lime juice, and a hint of honey. This salad pairs perfectly with grilled meats or can be enjoyed on its own as a healthy snack.
Creamed Corn Chowder with Fresh or Frozen Corn
On cooler summer evenings, a bowl of creamy corn chowder can be incredibly comforting. Start by sautéing diced onions, celery, and carrots in a large pot. Add in the corn kernels, diced potatoes, and vegetable broth. Let it simmer until the vegetables are tender. Blend a portion of the soup to create a creamy base while leaving some chunks for texture. Stir in a bit of cream and season with salt, pepper, and thyme. Serve hot with a side of crusty bread.
Mexican Street Corn Elote on the Cob
Elote, or Mexican street corn, is a flavorful way to spice up your typical corn on the cob. Grill the corn as you would for traditional grilled corn. Once cooked, slather it in a mixture of mayonnaise, sour cream, and crumbled cotija cheese. Sprinkle with chili powder, and finish with a squeeze of lime juice and chopped cilantro. This tangy and spicy treat is sure to be a hit at your next barbecue.
Skillet Corn Fritters for Leftover Corn Kernels
Corn fritters make for a delightful appetizer or side dish. Mix fresh corn kernels, flour, eggs, milk, and a pinch of baking powder to form a batter. Add in finely chopped green onions and a dash of cayenne pepper for a kick. Drop spoonfuls of the batter into hot oil and fry until golden brown. Serve with a dollop of sour cream or a spicy aioli for dipping.
Corn and Avocado Salsa Fresh Corn Side Dish
This corn and avocado salsa is perfect for summer gatherings. Combine corn kernels with diced avocados, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and jalapeños. Toss with lime juice, olive oil, and a pinch of salt. This vibrant salsa is excellent served with tortilla chips or as a topping for grilled fish or chicken.
Discover Fresh Corn and Casserole Essentials at Lily’s Weston Market
At Lily’s Weston Market, we pride ourselves on providing fresh, locally sourced produce and specialty foods to the Weston, CT community. Whether you’re looking for the sweetest corn or other seasonal delights, our market has it all.
Visit our website to learn more about our offerings and to stay updated on our latest products and events. We look forward to helping you make your summer meals unforgettable!
FAQ About Corn Dishes
What dishes can be made with corn?
There are many delicious corn dishes you can make using fresh corn, frozen corn, or canned corn. Popular options include grilled corn on the cob, corn salad, corn chowder, creamed corn, corn fritters, corn casserole, and Mexican street corn. These recipes often use corn kernels cut off the cob and can serve as a hearty main or a tasty side dish.
How do you jazz up a can of corn?
To enhance canned corn, try sautéing it in a skillet with unsalted butter, salt and pepper, and your favorite herbs or spices. You can also add cream cheese or shredded cheese for a creamier side dish, or mix in diced chive, crispy bacon, or lime juice for extra flavor. It’s an easy recipe to elevate corn and turn it into a more delicious side.
What is the most popular way to eat corn?
The most popular way to enjoy corn is grilled corn on the cob, especially during the summer. Grilling enhances its flavor with a smoky char and preserves its natural sweetness. Many love to enjoy it right off the cob, seasoned with butter, salt and pepper, or dressed up with various toppings for a delicious side.
What is Mexican street corn?
Mexican street corn, also known as elote, is grilled corn on the cob slathered with a creamy mixture of mayonnaise, sour cream or Mexican crema, and topped with cotija cheese, chili powder, and lime juice. This popular corn dish is a flavorful twist on traditional grilled corn, often served at barbecues and festivals. It’s also adapted into esquites, where the kernels are cut off the cob and served in a cup.