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Savory Grilled Corn on the Cob with 3 Easy Zesty Butter Spread Recipes

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A quick and flavorful grilled corn on the cob recipe featuring three zesty butter spreads that add a smoky, tangy, and herby twist to a classic favorite. Perfect for casual gatherings or weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 ears fresh corn on the cob, husks removed
  • 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh chives, finely chopped
  • Juice and zest of 1 medium lemon
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup

Instructions

  1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, about 375-400°F (190-204°C), which takes roughly 10-15 minutes.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine softened unsalted butter with minced garlic, lemon zest and juice, chopped herbs, smoked paprika, cayenne (if using), honey, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until smooth and well blended. Divide into three small bowls if making multiple flavor variations.
  3. Remove husks and silk from each ear of corn. Pat dry with a towel.
  4. Using a spoon or spatula, generously spread your chosen zesty butter all over the corn, coating every kernel.
  5. Place the buttered ears directly on the grill grates. Cook for about 10-12 minutes total, turning every 2-3 minutes to ensure even charring. Watch for golden brown grill marks and a slight smoky aroma. Move corn to a cooler spot if flare-ups occur.
  6. Once grilled, remove the corn and immediately slather a little more of the zesty butter on while the corn is still hot to help flavors soak in and keep the corn juicy.
  7. Transfer to a serving platter and sprinkle with additional fresh herbs or a pinch of smoked paprika for color and extra flavor.
  8. Serve warm.

Notes

For a dairy-free version, substitute vegan butter or coconut oil and omit honey. You can prepare the butter spreads a day ahead and refrigerate; bring to room temperature before use. If grilling is difficult, roast corn in the oven at 425°F (220°C) for about 20 minutes, turning halfway through. Wrapping corn in foil after initial grilling helps steam and retain moisture.

Nutrition

Keywords: grilled corn, corn on the cob, zesty butter, summer recipe, barbecue side, easy corn recipe, herb butter, smoky corn

Find it online: https://sparklespoon.com/savory-grilled-corn-on-the-cob-with-3-easy-zesty-butter-spread-recipes/