Are you looking for a quick and easy side dish that bursts with flavor? Look no further! This butter sweet corn recipe is the perfect addition to any meal, from summer barbecues to cozy weeknight dinners. It's incredibly simple, requiring minimal ingredients and even less time, making it ideal for busy weeknights or when you want a delicious, homemade side dish without the fuss. This recipe showcases the natural sweetness of corn, enhanced by the rich flavor of butter and a touch of salt and pepper. It's a crowd-pleaser, guaranteed to satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Let's get cooking!
Ingredients:
- 2 ears of fresh sweet corn, shucked
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Corn
If using fresh corn on the cob, carefully remove the husks and silks. You can either grill, boil, or microwave the corn. Grilling imparts a lovely smoky flavor, while boiling ensures even cooking. Microwaving is the quickest option for busy weeknights.
- Grilling: Preheat your grill to medium heat. Grill the corn, turning occasionally, for about 8-10 minutes, or until kernels are tender and slightly charred.
- Boiling: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the corn and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until tender.
- Microwaving: Place the corn in a microwave-safe dish with a tablespoon of water. Microwave on high for 3-5 minutes, or until tender.
Step 2: Cut the Corn Kernels
Once the corn is cooked, let it cool slightly. Using a sharp knife, cut the kernels off the cob. You can also use a corn cutter for faster results.
Step 3: Melt the Butter and Season
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium-low heat. Add the corn kernels to the saucepan and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve the buttered sweet corn immediately as a delightful side dish. It pairs perfectly with grilled meats, roasted chicken, fish, or even alongside your favorite pasta dish.
Cooking Tips for the Best Butter Sweet Corn:
- Fresh is Best: While frozen corn can be used in a pinch, fresh corn on the cob delivers the best flavor and texture.
- Don't Overcook: Overcooked corn becomes mushy. Aim for tender-crisp kernels.
- Adjust Seasoning: Feel free to adjust the amount of salt and pepper to your liking. You can also experiment with other seasonings, such as garlic powder, onion powder, or paprika.
- Make it a Meal: Add some cooked bacon or crumbled feta cheese for extra flavor and protein.
Variations:
- Spicy Sweet Corn: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Herby Sweet Corn: Stir in some fresh herbs like chives, parsley, or cilantro before serving.
- Lime Sweet Corn: A squeeze of fresh lime juice adds a bright, citrusy note.
Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 1 ear of corn):
- Calories: Approximately 100-120
- Fat: 7-8g
- Carbohydrates: 15-18g
- Protein: 3-4g
This simple butter sweet corn recipe is a testament to the fact that sometimes, the most straightforward dishes are the most satisfying. It's a quick, healthy, and delicious side dish that's perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!