6 Delicious Ways To Use Up Summer Corn

Ah, summer! That magical time of year when the sun is shining, the days are long, and fresh corn is in abundance. There’s something truly special about biting into a juicy, sweet ear of corn that captures the essence of the season. But sometimes, we find ourselves with more corn than we know what to do with. Fear not! Here are six delicious ways to use up your summer corn that will have you savoring every bite.

Not only is corn delicious, but it’s also packed with nutrients. It’s a good source of fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free, making it a versatile ingredient for everyone to enjoy.

Classic Corn on the Cob

Simple Boiled Corn

Let’s start with a classic favorite: boiled corn on the cob. This method is straightforward and highlights the natural sweetness of the corn.

Ingredients:

• Fresh ears of corn
• Water
• Salt
• Butter (optional)

Instructions:

1. Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil.
2. Add a pinch of salt to the boiling water.
3. Husk the corn and remove the silk.
4. Place the corn in the boiling water and cook for 5-7 minutes until tender.
5. Drain and serve with butter, if desired.

Grilled Corn with Herb Butter

For a smoky, flavorful twist, try grilling your corn and topping it with herb butter.

Ingredients:

• Fresh ears of corn
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper
• Butter
• Fresh herbs (parsley, chives, thyme)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
2. Husk the corn and remove the silk.
3. Brush the corn with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Grill the corn for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until charred and tender.
5. In a small bowl, mix softened butter with chopped herbs.
6. Spread the herb butter over the hot grilled corn before serving.

Corn Salad Extravaganza

Fresh Corn and Avocado Salad

This vibrant salad is perfect for a light summer meal or as a side dish at a barbecue.

Ingredients:

• Fresh corn kernels
• Diced avocado
• Cherry tomatoes, halved
• Red onion, finely chopped
• Cilantro, chopped
• Lime juice
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the corn kernels, diced avocado, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and cilantro.
2. Drizzle with lime juice and olive oil.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Toss gently to combine and serve immediately.

Mexican Street Corn Salad (Esquites)

Inspired by the popular street food, this salad is bursting with bold flavors.

Ingredients:

• Fresh corn kernels
• Mayonnaise
• Cotija cheese, crumbled
• Lime juice
• Chili powder
• Cilantro, chopped

Instructions:

1. In a skillet, cook the corn kernels over medium-high heat until slightly charred.
2. In a large bowl, mix the charred corn with mayonnaise, cotija cheese, lime juice, and chili powder.
3. Stir in chopped cilantro and serve warm or at room temperature.

Creamy Corn Soups

Classic Corn Chowder

This hearty soup is comfort food at its finest.

Ingredients:

• Fresh corn kernels
• Onion, chopped
• Potatoes, diced
• Chicken or vegetable broth
• Heavy cream
• Salt and pepper

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, sauté the chopped onion until translucent.
2. Stir in the diced potatoes and corn kernels.
3. Pour in the broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer until potatoes are tender.
4. Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

Spicy Corn and Coconut Soup

For a unique twist, this soup combines the sweetness of corn with the richness of coconut milk and a hint of spice.

Ingredients:

• Fresh corn kernels
• Onion, chopped
• Garlic, minced
• Ginger, grated
• Red chili, chopped
• Coconut milk
• Vegetable broth
• Lime juice
• Cilantro, chopped

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, sauté the onion, garlic, ginger, and red chili until fragrant.
2. Add the corn kernels and cook for a few minutes.
3. Pour in the coconut milk and vegetable broth.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 15 minutes.
5. Stir in lime juice and chopped cilantro before serving.

Corn in Main Dishes

Summer Corn Tacos

These tacos are a fresh and fun way to enjoy corn as a main dish.

Ingredients:

• Fresh corn kernels
• Tortillas
• Black beans, drained and rinsed
• Cherry tomatoes, halved
• Red onion, finely chopped
• Avocado, diced
• Lime juice
• Cilantro, chopped
• Salt and pepper

Instructions:

1. In a skillet, sauté the corn kernels until slightly charred.
2. Warm the tortillas in a separate pan or in the oven.
3. Fill the tortillas with corn, black beans, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and avocado.
4. Drizzle with lime juice and sprinkle with chopped cilantro.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste and serve immediately.

Corn-Stuffed Bell Peppers

These stuffed bell peppers are a colorful and nutritious dinner option.

Ingredients:

• Bell peppers, halved and seeded
• Fresh corn kernels
• Quinoa or rice, cooked
• Black beans, drained and rinsed
• Tomato sauce
• Cumin
• Chili powder
• Cheese (optional)
• Cilantro, chopped

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix the corn kernels, quinoa or rice, black beans, tomato sauce, cumin, and chili powder.
3. Stuff the bell pepper halves with the mixture and place them in a baking dish.
4. Top with cheese, if using.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the peppers are tender and the filling is heated through.
6. Garnish with chopped cilantro before serving.

Savory Corn Breads

Classic Cornbread

This classic cornbread is perfect as a side dish or a snack.

Ingredients:

• Cornmeal
• Flour
• Baking powder
• Salt
• Sugar
• Eggs
• Milk
• Butter, melted

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a baking pan.
2. In a large bowl, mix the cornmeal, flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
3. In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and melted butter.
4. Combine the wet and dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cheesy Jalapeño Cornbread

Add a spicy kick to your cornbread with jalapeños and cheese.

Ingredients:

• Cornmeal
• Flour
• Baking powder
• Salt
• Sugar
• Eggs
• Milk
• Butter, melted
• Jalapeños, chopped
• Cheddar cheese, shredded

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a baking pan.
2. In a large bowl, mix the cornmeal, flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
3. In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and melted butter.
4. Stir in the chopped jalapeños and shredded cheddar cheese.
5. Combine the wet and dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Sweet Corn Treats

Corn Pudding

This creamy and sweet corn pudding is a delightful dessert.

Ingredients:

• Fresh corn kernels
• Eggs
• Milk
• Sugar
• Cornstarch
• Vanilla extract
• Salt

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.
2. In a blender, puree the corn kernels until smooth.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, sugar, cornstarch, vanilla extract, and salt.
4. Stir in the pureed corn.
5. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and bake for 45-50 minutes until set and golden brown on top.
6. Let cool slightly before serving.

Corn Ice Cream

For a unique and refreshing treat, try making corn ice cream.

Ingredients:

• Fresh corn kernels
• Heavy cream
• Milk
• Sugar
• Egg yolks
• Vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. In a saucepan, combine the corn kernels, heavy cream, and milk. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
2. Remove from heat and let cool slightly, then puree the mixture in a blender until smooth.
3. In a bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and sugar until pale and thick.
4. Slowly pour the corn mixture into the egg yolk mixture, whisking constantly.
5. Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until thickened.
6. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
7. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator, then churn in an ice cream maker according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Conclusion

Corn is one of the most versatile and delicious ingredients of the summer season. From classic boiled corn on the cob to unique dishes like corn ice cream, there are endless ways to enjoy this sweet and nutritious vegetable. So, the next time you find yourself with an abundance of summer corn, try one of these recipes and savor the taste of the season.

FAQs

What is the best way to store fresh corn?

The best way to store fresh corn is to keep it in its husk and place it in the refrigerator. This helps retain its moisture and sweetness. Use it within a few days for the best flavor.

Can I freeze corn?

Yes, you can freeze corn. To do so, blanch the corn on the cob in boiling water for a few minutes, then cool it in ice water. Cut the kernels off the cob and place them in freezer bags. Frozen corn can be stored for up to 12 months.

How do I choose the best corn at the market?

When selecting corn, look for ears with bright green husks that are tightly wrapped around the cob. The silk should be golden and slightly sticky. The kernels should be plump and evenly spaced.

What can I do with leftover corn?

Leftover corn can be used in a variety of dishes, such as salads, soups, and salsas. You can also add it to casseroles, stir-fries, or use it as a topping for pizzas and nachos.

Are there any health benefits to eating corn?

Yes, corn is a good source of fiber, vitamins (such as B vitamins), and antioxidants. It can support digestive health, provide energy, and contribute to overall well-being.