What To Know
- No need for a grill or charcoal, just a stovetop and a grill pan.
- Place the corn on the grill pan and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the corn is tender and slightly charred.
- Pan-grilled corn is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed on its own or as a side dish to a variety of meals.
Summer is in full swing, and there’s no better way to enjoy the season’s bounty than with a perfectly grilled ear of corn. Pan-grilling corn is a quick and easy way to achieve a smoky, caramelized flavor that will make your taste buds sing.
Why Pan Grill Corn?
Pan-grilling corn offers several advantages over other cooking methods:
- Convenience: Pan-grilling is a fuss-free way to cook corn. No need for a grill or charcoal, just a stovetop and a grill pan.
- Control: You have full control over the heat and cooking time, ensuring that your corn is cooked to perfection.
- Versatility: Pan-grilled corn can be seasoned with a wide variety of herbs, spices, and sauces, making it a versatile dish that can complement any meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To pan grill corn, you’ll need:
- Fresh corn on the cob
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Corn: Remove the husks and silks from the corn. Rinse the corn under cold water.
2. Heat the Pan: Heat a grill pan over medium heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil.
3. Add the Corn: Place the corn on the grill pan and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the corn is tender and slightly charred.
4. Season: Season the corn with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve: Remove the corn from the grill pan and serve immediately with your favorite toppings.
Tips for Perfectly Grilled Corn
- Choose Fresh Corn: For the best flavor, use fresh corn that is in season.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Grill the corn in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, which can lead to uneven cooking.
- Use a Grill Pan: A grill pan with ridges will help create those beautiful grill marks and add a smoky flavor.
- Don’t Overcook: Keep a close eye on the corn to prevent it from burning. Cook until the kernels are tender but still have a slight bite.
- Season Generously: Salt and pepper are essential seasonings for grilled corn, but you can experiment with other herbs and spices to create your own unique flavor combinations.
Flavorful Variations
In addition to salt and pepper, there are endless ways to season pan-grilled corn. Here are a few ideas:
- Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle with chopped cilantro, parsley, or basil for a burst of freshness.
- Spices: Add a sprinkle of chili powder, cumin, or paprika for a hint of spice.
- Cheese: Top with grated Parmesan or crumbled feta cheese for a creamy and flavorful twist.
- Sauces: Drizzle with melted butter, honey mustard, or a spicy barbecue sauce for extra flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Pan-grilled corn is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed on its own or as a side dish to a variety of meals. Here are a few serving suggestions:
- Grilled Corn Salad: Combine grilled corn with chopped tomatoes, onions, and peppers for a refreshing and flavorful salad.
- Corn on the Cob with Dipping Sauce: Serve grilled corn with a variety of dipping sauces, such as ranch dressing, blue cheese dressing, or melted butter.
- Corn and Black Bean Salsa: Combine grilled corn with black beans, tomatoes, onions, and cilantro for a zesty salsa that can be served with chips or tacos.
Grilling Time Chart
The grilling time for corn will vary depending on the size of the ears and the heat of your grill. Here is a general grilling time chart:
| Ear Size | Grilling Time per Side |
| — | — |
| Small (4-5 inches) | 5-6 minutes |
| Medium (6-7 inches) | 6-7 minutes |
| Large (8-9 inches) | 7-8 minutes |
Final Thoughts
Pan-grilling corn is a simple and delicious way to enjoy this summer staple. With a few simple steps and a handful of ingredients, you can create perfectly grilled corn that will impress your family and friends. So fire up your grill pan and get ready to savor the flavors of summer!
What People Want to Know
Q: Can I grill frozen corn?
A: Yes, you can grill frozen corn. However, you will need to increase the grilling time by about 5 minutes per side.
Q: How do I prevent the corn from sticking to the grill pan?
A: Make sure to heat the grill pan over medium heat before adding the corn. You can also lightly grease the grill pan with oil.
Q: What are some creative toppings for grilled corn?
A: Here are a few ideas for creative toppings:
- Lime wedges and cilantro
- Parmesan cheese and basil
- Bacon bits and crumbled blue cheese
- Honey mustard and chopped walnuts
