Lemon pepper corn on the cob is a summer delight that dances on your taste buds like an enthusiastic salsa at a backyard barbecue. Imagine sweet, juicy corn slathered in zesty lemon and kicked up with a peppery punch, creating a flavor explosion that makes you wonder why you ever settled for plain old butter.
This dish brings back fond memories of sunny afternoons spent outside with family, where laughter mingles with the aroma of freshly grilled corn. Whether you’re hosting a summer cookout or simply dreaming of sunny days, this recipe promises to elevate your corn game to new heights, making it an unforgettable addition to any meal.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The ease of preparation means you can whip this up in no time
- Its lively flavor profile will have everyone begging for seconds
- Visually stunning, these vibrant cobs are perfect for sharing at gatherings
- Enjoy it as a side dish or star of the show; it’s incredibly versatile
Ingredients for Lemon pepper corn on the cob
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Fresh Corn on the Cob: Choose bright green husks with firm kernels for the best taste and texture.
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Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed is ideal; it adds a vibrant zing that bottled juice just can’t match.
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Black Pepper: Use coarsely ground black pepper for an extra kick and robust flavor.
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Olive Oil: Helps the seasoning stick and adds richness to each bite.
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Salt: A pinch elevates all the flavors and enhances the natural sweetness of the corn.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Lemon pepper corn on the cob
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare Your Corn
Start by shucking your fresh corn on the cob. Remove all those pesky silk strands and rinse them under cold water. Pat them dry with a kitchen towel because nobody likes soggy corn!
Step 2: Mix Your Seasoning
In a small bowl, combine freshly squeezed lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and coarsely ground black pepper. This mixture will coat your corn and create that irresistible flavor burst.
Step 3: Coat the Corn
Using a brush or your hands (if you’re feeling adventurous), generously coat each ear of corn with your lemon-pepper mixture. Ensure every kernel gets some love—don’t leave them hanging!
Step 4: Grill It Up
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F or 200°C). Place the seasoned corn directly on the grill grates. Grill for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally until they are tender and have beautiful char marks.
Step 5: Serve with Style
Once done, remove from heat and give them another quick drizzle of lemon juice. For an extra touch, sprinkle some additional black pepper over the top before serving.
Step 6: Enjoy Every Bite
Transfer to plates and serve hot! Pair it with grilled meats or enjoy as a stand-alone snack while basking in that sun-soaked glory.
With these easy steps, you’re not just making lemon pepper corn on the cob; you’re creating memories wrapped in flavors that will linger long after your last bite!
You Must Know
- Lemon pepper corn on the cob is not just a side dish; it’s an experience!
- The citrusy zing and peppery bite dance together, making your taste buds do the cha-cha
- Perfect for summer barbecues or cozy family dinners, this dish steals the show every time
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by boiling or grilling the corn to tender perfection. While that’s happening, mix your lemon pepper seasoning in a bowl with melted butter. Once the corn is ready, slather on that buttery goodness for optimal flavor.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to switch things up! Try adding garlic powder for extra oomph or sprinkle some grated Parmesan on top for a cheesy twist. You can also swap out lemon juice for lime if you’re feeling zesty.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover lemon pepper corn on the cob in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To reheat, simply pop it in the microwave for about 30 seconds or grill it briefly until warm and fresh.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For optimal flavor, grill the corn with the husks on for a smokier taste
- Use fresh lemons instead of bottled juice for a brighter flavor
- Always taste and adjust seasoning at each step to ensure maximum deliciousness!
Nothing warms my heart quite like watching my family devour lemon pepper corn on the cob during our summer cookouts. It’s become a staple that brings everyone together—it’s like culinary glue!
FAQs:
What is Lemon Pepper Corn on the Cob?
Lemon pepper corn on the cob is a delicious and vibrant side dish that combines the sweet, juicy flavor of corn with the zesty kick of lemon and the spiciness of black pepper. This dish is perfect for summer barbecues or family dinners. The bright flavors enhance the natural sweetness of corn, making it an enticing treat. Preparing lemon pepper corn on the cob is simple, requiring just a few ingredients and minimal cooking time. It’s a great way to elevate your corn-on-the-cob experience. For more inspiration, check out this delicious side dishes recipe.
How do I prepare Lemon Pepper Corn on the Cob?
To prepare lemon pepper corn on the cob, begin by boiling or grilling fresh corn until tender. While the corn cooks, mix melted butter with freshly squeezed lemon juice and ground black pepper. Once cooked, brush the mixture generously onto each ear of corn. For added flavor, sprinkle some lemon zest and extra pepper before serving. This method ensures every bite is infused with zesty goodness, making it a standout dish at any meal.
Can I make Lemon Pepper Corn on the Cob ahead of time?
Yes, you can make lemon pepper corn on the cob ahead of time! To do this, prepare the corn as directed and apply the lemon-pepper butter mixture. You can then wrap each ear in aluminum foil and store them in the refrigerator for up to a day. When ready to serve, reheat them on a grill or in an oven until warmed through. This makes it convenient for gatherings or busy weeknights while ensuring that you still enjoy those vibrant flavors.
What are some variations of Lemon Pepper Corn on the Cob?
There are several delicious variations of lemon pepper corn on the cob to try! You can add ingredients like Parmesan cheese for a savory touch or fresh herbs such as cilantro or parsley for added freshness. For those who enjoy heat, consider incorporating chili powder or cayenne pepper into your seasoning mix. Experimenting with these additions allows you to tailor this dish to your taste preferences while keeping that signature lemon-pepper zing intact.
Conclusion for Lemon Pepper Corn on the Cob:
Lemon pepper corn on the cob offers a delightful combination of flavors that can elevate any meal. Its simplicity in preparation makes it accessible for everyone, from novice cooks to seasoned chefs. By using fresh ingredients like lemons and black pepper, you create a dish that bursts with flavor while complementing various main courses. Whether grilled or boiled, this recipe shines as a summer favorite or a year-round side dish option that brings joy to your dining table.
Lemon Pepper Corn on the Cob
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Lemon pepper corn on the cob is a refreshing summer side dish that transforms sweet, juicy corn into a vibrant culinary experience. This easy recipe features fresh corn grilled to perfection and slathered in a zesty lemon-pepper mix, making it an irresistible addition to barbecues, picnics, or family dinners. With its burst of flavor and inviting aroma, this dish is sure to become a favorite that keeps everyone coming back for more.
Ingredients
- 4 ears fresh corn on the cob
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon coarsely ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Start by shucking the corn and removing silk strands. Rinse under cold water and pat dry.
- In a bowl, mix lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and black pepper to create the seasoning mixture.
- Generously coat each ear of corn with the lemon-pepper mixture using a brush or your hands.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (400°F). Grill the corn for 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally until tender and charred.
- Once cooked, drizzle with additional lemon juice and sprinkle more black pepper before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ear of corn (100g)
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: For added richness, mix melted butter with the seasoning. Experiment with garlic powder or lime juice for different flavor profiles. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator; reheat on the grill or microwave.