Grilled corn on the cob without husks is a delicious and easy summer side dish that brings out the natural sweetness of fresh corn. To grill corn without husks, simply remove the husks and silk, brush the kernels with oil, and cook directly on the grill for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally. This method creates a slightly charred, smoky flavor that enhances the corn’s taste.

Grilling corn without husks offers several advantages. It allows for more direct heat contact, resulting in beautiful grill marks and a nutty flavor. The process is also quicker and less messy than grilling with husks on. Many grilling enthusiasts prefer this technique for its simplicity and the ability to easily monitor the corn’s progress on the grill.

While grilling corn without husks may increase the risk of drying out the kernels, proper technique can prevent this issue. Brushing the corn with oil before grilling helps retain moisture, and keeping a close eye on cooking time ensures perfectly grilled corn every time. This method produces tender, flavorful corn that’s an ideal accompaniment to burgers, steaks, and other grilled favorites.

Selecting the Best Corn

Choosing the right corn is crucial for a delicious grilled experience. Fresh corn on the cob is ideal, with bright green husks that cling tightly to the ear.

Look for silk that’s golden brown and slightly sticky. Avoid corn with dried-out or black silk, as this indicates older ears.

Sweet corn varieties are perfect for grilling. These include:

• Silver Queen
• Peaches and Cream
• Sugar Baby

Feel the kernels through the husk. They should be plump and firm, not soft or dented. The corn should feel heavy for its size, indicating juicy kernels.

For the best corn on the cob, shop at farmers’ markets or roadside stands when possible. Freshly picked corn offers superior flavor and texture.

If husks are already removed, examine the kernels directly. They should be plump and tightly packed, with no missing rows. Avoid corn with shriveled or discolored kernels.

Store corn in the refrigerator with husks intact until ready to grill. This helps maintain freshness and prevents the kernels from drying out.

Preparation for Grilling

To grill corn on the cob without husks, start by removing the husks and silk from each ear of corn. Rinse the corn under cool water to remove any remaining silk strands.

Pat the corn dry with paper towels. This step helps prevent excessive steaming and promotes better caramelization on the grill.

Lightly brush each ear of corn with vegetable oil. This coating helps prevent sticking and enhances browning. Alternatively, you can use melted butter for added flavor.

Some cooks prefer to brine corn before grilling. To do this, dissolve 1/4 cup of salt in 2 quarts of water. Soak the corn in this solution for 30 minutes to an hour.

While preparing the corn, preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 375-400°F (190-204°C). This temperature range ensures even cooking and proper char development.

Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking. Use a paper towel dipped in oil and held with tongs to safely apply a thin layer to the hot grates.

Grilling Techniques

Grilling corn without husks requires direct heat and frequent turning to achieve even cooking and a delicious char. The process differs slightly between charcoal and gas grills, but both can produce excellent results.

On a Charcoal Grill

Set up your charcoal grill for direct grilling. Aim for a medium heat of approximately 350°F at grate level. This temperature provides the ideal balance for cooking the corn through while developing a flavorful char.

Place the shucked corn directly on the grate over the hot coals. Close the lid to maintain consistent heat. Turn the corn every 1-2 minutes to ensure even cooking and prevent burning.

Grill for about 10-15 minutes total, or until the kernels are tender and golden brown all over. Avoid leaving the corn in one position for too long, as this can lead to overly charred or burnt spots.

On a Gas Grill

Preheat your gas grill to medium-high heat, around 375-400°F. This temperature range allows for efficient cooking and proper caramelization of the corn kernels.

Before placing the corn on the grill, lightly brush the grates with oil to prevent sticking. This step is crucial for achieving those perfect grill marks without losing any kernels.

Place the shucked corn directly on the oiled grates. Close the lid and grill for about 10-12 minutes. Turn the corn every 2-3 minutes to ensure even cooking and develop a uniform char.

Monitor the corn closely, as gas grills can have hot spots. Adjust the corn’s position if needed to prevent any areas from cooking too quickly or burning.

Flavor Enhancements

Grilled corn on the cob offers a perfect canvas for creative flavor combinations. Herbs, spices, butters, and sauces can elevate this classic summer dish to new heights.

Herbs and Spices

Fresh herbs add brightness and complexity to grilled corn. Chopped cilantro, parsley, or basil sprinkled over hot corn brings a burst of freshness. For a smoky-sweet flavor, try a blend of smoked paprika and brown sugar.

Chili powder and lime zest create a zesty Mexican-inspired combo. Garlic powder, onion powder, and dried thyme make a savory seasoning mix. For heat lovers, a sprinkle of cayenne or crushed red pepper flakes kicks things up.

Pre-seasoning corn before grilling allows flavors to penetrate as it cooks. Alternatively, apply herbs and spices immediately after cooking while the corn is still hot and slightly oiled.

Butters and Sauces

Flavored butters melt beautifully over hot grilled corn. Mix softened butter with minced garlic, herbs, or spices for endless variations. Honey butter adds sweetness, while chipotle butter brings smoky heat.

For a lighter option, brush corn with olive oil infused with lemon zest and herbs. A drizzle of balsamic glaze offers tangy contrast to the corn’s natural sweetness.

Mayonnaise-based sauces, like Mexican elote-style toppings, add richness. Mix mayo with chili powder, lime juice, and cotija cheese for a classic street corn flavor. For an Asian twist, try a soy-ginger glaze or miso butter.

Serving Suggestions

Grilled corn on the cob without husks makes an excellent side dish for various meals. Serve it alongside grilled meats, fish, or vegetarian main courses for a delicious summer feast.

For a classic presentation, brush the corn with melted butter and sprinkle with salt and pepper. This simple preparation lets the sweet, smoky flavors shine.

To elevate your corn, try a Mexican street corn-inspired topping. Spread mayonnaise on the cob, then roll it in crumbled cotija cheese. Sprinkle with chili powder and fresh cilantro for a zesty kick.

Create a corn salad by cutting the kernels off the cob. Mix with diced bell peppers, red onions, and a lime vinaigrette for a refreshing side dish.

For a unique twist, drizzle the grilled corn with garlic aioli and top with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs like basil or parsley.

Serve corn on the cob with small skewers or corn holders to make eating easier. Provide napkins, as enjoying this finger food can get messy.

Consider offering a variety of toppings like butter, salt, pepper, and herbs so guests can customize their corn to their liking.

Creative Recipes

Grilled corn on the cob without husks opens up a world of culinary possibilities. These recipes showcase the versatility of this smoky, charred vegetable in both salads and Mexican-inspired dishes.

Corn-based Salads

Grilled corn kernels add smoky sweetness to refreshing salads. Try a Southwest-inspired salad with black beans, diced tomatoes, and avocado. Toss with a lime-cilantro dressing for a zesty kick.

For a Mediterranean twist, combine grilled corn with feta cheese, diced cucumber, and kalamata olives. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice.

Create a hearty grain salad by mixing grilled corn kernels with quinoa, roasted red peppers, and chopped herbs. Add grilled chicken or shrimp for a complete meal.

A summer succotash salad pairs grilled corn with lima beans, cherry tomatoes, and fresh basil. Dress with a light vinaigrette to let the vegetables shine.

Mexican Street Corn Inspired Dishes

Elote, or Mexican street corn, is a classic preparation. Brush grilled corn with mayonnaise, then roll in cotija cheese and chili powder. Squeeze lime juice over the top for added tang.

For a deconstructed version, cut kernels off the cob and toss with the same ingredients. Serve in cups as “elote en vaso” for easy eating.

Create a Mexican-inspired pasta salad by combining grilled corn kernels with cooked pasta, black beans, and diced bell peppers. Dress with a creamy cilantro-lime sauce.

Try grilled corn fritters by mixing kernels with corn masa, eggs, and cheese. Fry until golden and serve with chipotle crema for dipping.

Tips and Tricks

Selecting fresh corn is crucial for the best grilled results. Look for ears with bright green husks and moist, golden-brown silk.

Preheating the grill to medium-high heat (around 375-400°F) ensures even cooking and perfect char. Oil the grates to prevent sticking.

Brush corn with olive oil before grilling to enhance flavor and prevent drying out. Salt and pepper can be added for simple seasoning.

Rotate the corn every 2-3 minutes for even cooking. This technique helps achieve golden-brown kernels all around.

Total grilling time should be about 15-20 minutes. The corn is done when kernels are tender and slightly charred.

For added flavor, try brushing the corn with herb butter or sprinkling with cheese after grilling.

To easily remove silk, use a clean kitchen towel or soft brush before cooking.

Grilled corn pairs well with burgers, steaks, or grilled chicken for a perfect summer BBQ spread.

Leftover grilled corn can be cut off the cob and used in salads or salsas for added smoky flavor.