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Flavorful Grilled Corn on the Cob with Lime Cilantro Butter

grilled corn on the cob with lime cilantro butter - featured image

This grilled corn on the cob is slathered with a zesty lime cilantro butter, combining smoky, creamy, and fresh flavors for a quick and easy summer side dish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 ears fresh corn on the cob, husked and cleaned
  • 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
  • Juice and zest of 1 medium lime
  • 1 clove garlic, minced (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon chili powder or smoked paprika (optional)

Instructions

  1. Remove the husks and silk from each ear of corn. Rinse under cold water to remove any remaining silk and pat dry with a towel.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, finely chopped cilantro, minced garlic (if using), lime zest, and lime juice. Add salt, pepper, and chili powder or smoked paprika if desired. Mix well until evenly incorporated. Set aside at room temperature.
  3. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F or 200°C). If using charcoal, wait until the coals are glowing red with a light ash coating.
  4. Place the corn directly on the grill grates. Cook for about 10-15 minutes, turning every 2-3 minutes using tongs, until the corn has a nice char with golden brown spots but no blackened burnt bits.
  5. Remove the corn from the grill and immediately slather it with the lime cilantro butter while still hot to allow it to melt and soak into every kernel.
  6. Serve the corn warm with extra lime wedges on the side.

Notes

Make the lime cilantro butter a day ahead and refrigerate; soften before spreading on hot corn. Rotate corn frequently on the grill to avoid burning. If no grill is available, roast corn in the oven at 425°F for 20 minutes, turning halfway. For dairy-free, substitute butter with coconut oil or vegan butter.

Nutrition

Keywords: grilled corn, lime cilantro butter, summer side dish, barbecue, easy recipe, smoky corn, fresh flavors