Corn is so common that it's easy to overlook, but few ingredients capture the taste of summer quite like fresh sweet corn. While it doesn't get the same attention as heirloom tomatoes or other seasonal produce, its natural sweetness and versatility make it a staple in everything from salads and casseroles to grilled dishes and side dishes.
And corn isn't just for savory recipes. Its sweet flavor shines in desserts too, from puddings to cakes. Whether it's fresh off the cob, roasted on the grill, or folded into a favorite recipe, corn brings a flavor that's unmistakably summer.
Chilled Corn-and-Dill Soup
Creamy, tangy, and fresh, this grilled corn and dill soup is the perfect choice for a summer lunch or a light dinner appetizer.
Grilled Corn with Smoked Honey Butter
Lightly smoked butter elevates grilled corn from a summer staple to something truly spectacular.
Fresh Grilled Corn-and-Chipotle Salsa
Give everyone’s favorite dip a seasonal twist with sweet corn. Chipotles in adobo add smoky heat, while lime and cilantro keep the flavors bright and fresh.
Fresh Corn Bundt Cake
Who knew? Corn in a Bundt cake will have everyone at your next picnic talking.
Lowcountry Shrimp Boil
Corn, along with potatoes and sausage, is a must in any shrimp boil. Cooking it all together lends the summer veggie some incredible flavor—and then there's the pepper butter and aïoli you can dip the corn in!
Grilled Corn with Red Pepper Jelly Glaze
You can't go the whole summer without putting some corn on the grill. While it's delicious with just a bit of butter, sometimes we like to dress it up. A glaze made from pepper jelly does the trick.
Get the recipe for Grilled Corn with Red Pepper Jelly Glaze.
Lima Bean and Corn Succotash
This succulent summer side-dish is splendid on any sideboard. (Say that five times fast!)
Grilled Corn with Pesto and Basil Schmear
Another dreamy spread for grilled corn is pesto (either homemade or store-bought) as well as a little fresh basil.
Get the recipe for Grilled Corn with Pesto and Basil Schmear.
Nana’s Famous Corn Pudding
Bring this sweet, creamy dish to your next potluck or feast, and you'll be bringing home an empty dish.
Elotes (Mexican Street Corn)
If you haven't had this cheesy, spicy, tart corn topping, then now's the time.
Ceviche with Corn, Peppers, and Avocado
This bright, flavorful appetizer is the perfect vehicle for farm-fresh corn.
Creamy Chicken Soup with Potatoes and Bacon
A quick-cooking soup is a godsend on summer weeknights. This one leans on rotisserie chicken to make it even faster. You can use frozen corn, but fresh is even better.
Get the recipe for Creamy Chicken Soup with Potatoes and Bacon.
Salmon in Foil with Vegetables
You can whip up these easy foil packets ahead of time and pop 'em in the oven when you get home for a light summer dinner of fish and fresh veggies!
Tamale Pie
This Southwestern-style shepherd's pie wouldn't be the same without sweet corn.
Grilled Corn Salad with Feta, Walnuts, and Shallot
The smoky flavor of grilled corn on the cob makes an excellent base for this sweet, spicy, and salty side salad.
Get the recipe for Grilled Corn Salad with Feta, Walnuts, and Shallot.
Corn Cobettes with Basil Butter
The smaller-size portions make these extra grab-able (especially for little kids), but the real genius here is the basil butter.
Corn Chowder
This summery chowder is best with fresh-from-the-farmer corn.
Charred Corn Salad
Forget the cob: This cheese, chili, and corn salad is the perfect addition to your summer meal.
Corn Salad with Bacon and Honey
Bring this sweet, Southern dish to a potluck or barbecue, and you'll be lucky to get the platter back. It's that good.
Ham-and-Corn Risotto
Risotto makes for not-too-leftover-y leftovers because you can serve it in patty form the next go-round. Fry in oil or butter for a few minutes for a delicious turn of events.
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