Spice it Up: Corn on the Cob

Many of us in the midwest know the phrase “knee-high by the 4th of July” in reference to corn on the cob, and that can only mean one thing-- corn on the cob season is coming up fast! This midwest summer staple is so versatile, no one seems to get tired of it. But just how versatile is it?

Cooking Methods

three cut pieces of corn cobs on a black plate garnished with greens and parmesan cheese
  • Grilling: One of the most common ways to prepare corn on the cob in the summer is on the grill. This is understandable, considering how easy it is-- all you have to do is put your grill on medium heat, let the ears of corn soak in cold, salted water for about 10 minutes, and then throw them on the grill for 15 to 20 minutes. Just make sure to turn them every 5 minutes or so!

  • Boiling: All you have to do for this method is boil 1 quart of water, add a little salt, and put the corn in for 4 to 5 minutes. Once the corn is done cooking, you can take the pot off of the stove and leave the corn in it for up to 30 minutes after cooking. 

  • Microwaving: This is perhaps the simplest way to cook corn on the cob-- it works especially well if you’re only going to be cooking 1 or 2 ears at a time. With the husk still on, put the ear of corn in the microwave for 1 minute. Once it’s done, you can easily remove the husk and silk. 

Different Takes on Corn on the Cob

two garnished elote street corns in a bowl with a drink in the background.

Corn on the cob is delicious with just some butter, but what else can you do with it? Here are just a few ideas: 

  • Elotes (Mexican street corn): Elotes are both delicious and simple to make! Simply top your corn on the cob with sour cream, spicy mayo, cilantro, lime juice, cotija cheese, and some spices. Need some ideas to spice up your mayo? Try our Flamin' Red Hot Cajun or Mexican Adobo!

  • Top it with sriracha mayo: This one’s easy! All you have to do is mix some sriracha and mayonnaise together to add a little kick to your corn on the cob. This is also an easy recipe to make vegan-- simply swap out regular mayo with vegan mayo!

  • Try some different types of butter: Rather than using plain butter, try adding some different seasonings! Try our Sesame Herb and Garlic seasoning for a garlicky flair, or our Oh, My Sweet Chipotle seasoning for a sweet and spicy twist. 

Using different seasonings can completely transform even a summer staple like corn on the cob. We hope that with Julia Belle’s Seasonings, you’re bound to find a new favorite seasoning blend to take your corn on the cob to the next level!