Introduction
Corn on the cob is a timeless favorite, celebrated for its sweet, succulent kernels and versatility in cooking. This recipe elevates the classic roasted corn experience with a luscious garlic herb butter that enhances its natural flavors. Perfect as a side dish for any summer barbecue or a delightful snack, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
6 ears corn, unhusked
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley leaves
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
*For the garlic herb butter:*
½ cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
¼ cup chopped fresh parsley leaves
3 cloves garlic, pressed
Zest of 1 lemon
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
1 teaspoon dried basil
½ teaspoon kosher salt
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
Pinch of cayenne pepper
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time
35-40 minutes
Total Time
45-50 minutes
Yield
Serves 6
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.
2. In a medium bowl, combine butter, parsley, garlic, lemon zest, thyme, rosemary, basil, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper; set aside.
3. Place corn husks directly on the oven rack and roast until corn is soft, about 35-40 minutes.
4. Peel down husks and spread with butter mixture.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with parsley and paprika, if desired.
Enjoy this delicious roasted corn recipe, bursting with flavor and perfect for gatherings!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
1. Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius).
2. Prepare Garlic Herb Butter
In a medium bowl, combine the following ingredients: unsalted butter, chopped fresh parsley, pressed garlic, lemon zest, dried thyme, dried rosemary, dried basil, kosher salt, ground black pepper, and a pinch of cayenne pepper. Mix the ingredients until they are well combined and set aside.
3. Roast Corn
Place the unhusked corn directly on the oven rack. Roast the corn for about 35 to 40 minutes or until the corn is soft.
4. Apply Butter Mixture
Carefully peel down the husks of the corn. Spread the prepared garlic herb butter mixture evenly over the corn.
5. Serve
Serve the corn immediately, garnished with additional chopped parsley and a sprinkle of smoked paprika if desired.
Notes
Use Fresh Ingredients
For the best flavor, use fresh parsley and garlic.
Adjust Seasoning
Feel free to adjust the amount of cayenne pepper according to your spice preference.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs well with grilled meats and makes a great addition to summer barbecues.
Storage
Leftover garlic herb butter can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one week or frozen for longer storage.
Cook techniques
Roasting Corn
Roasting corn in the oven intensifies its natural sweetness and flavor. Placing the unhusked corn directly on the oven rack allows the heat to circulate evenly, resulting in tender kernels.
Making Garlic Herb Butter
Combining room temperature butter with fresh herbs, garlic, and spices creates a flavorful spread that enhances the taste of roasted corn. Ensure all ingredients are evenly mixed for a consistent flavor.
Applying Butter Mixture
After roasting, peel back the corn husks and generously spread the garlic herb butter over the warm corn. This allows the butter to melt and soak into the kernels, maximizing flavor.
Garnishing
Finish off the dish by garnishing with chopped fresh parsley and a sprinkle of smoked paprika. This not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the overall flavor profile.
FAQ
Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh corn?
It is best to use fresh corn for roasting, as frozen corn will not have the same texture or flavor when roasted.
What can I substitute for fresh herbs in the butter?
Dried herbs can be used in place of fresh herbs, but use them sparingly as their flavor is more concentrated.
How do I store leftover garlic herb butter?
Leftover garlic herb butter can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week or frozen for longer storage.
Can I grill the corn instead of roasting it?
Yes, grilling the corn is an excellent alternative and adds a smoky flavor. Just make sure to grill it in the husk to retain moisture.
How do I know when the corn is done roasting?
The corn is done when it feels soft to the touch and the kernels are plump and tender. You can also check by carefully pulling back a husk to test a kernel.
Conclusion
The roasted corn with garlic herb butter offers a delightful combination of flavors that elevate this simple summer vegetable into a gourmet side dish. The sweetness of the corn beautifully melds with the rich, aromatic herb butter, creating a memorable experience for any meal.
Grilled Corn with Lime and Chili
Toss your roasted corn in a mixture of lime juice, chili powder, and cotija cheese for a zesty twist.
Corn and Avocado Salad
Combine roasted corn with diced avocado, fresh tomatoes, red onion, and a citrus vinaigrette for a refreshing salad.
Sliced Corn on the Cob with Cheesy Garlic Spread
Cut the corn into rounds and serve with a cheesy garlic spread made from cream cheese, garlic, and herbs.
Corn Chowder
Use the roasted corn as a base for a creamy corn chowder, adding potatoes, onions, and bacon for added flavor.
Corn Fritters
Mix the roasted corn with flour, eggs, and green onions to make delicious corn fritters, perfect for appetizers.
Corn and Black Bean Quesadillas
Combine the corn with black beans and cheese, then grill between tortillas for a hearty quesadilla filling.
