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Flavorful Grilled Cilantro Lime Corn on the Cob

grilled cilantro lime corn on the cob - featured image

A quick and easy grilled corn on the cob recipe infused with fresh cilantro, lime juice, garlic, and a hint of cumin, perfect for summer gatherings and backyard barbecues.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 ears fresh corn on the cob, husked
  • 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
  • Juice of 2 limes (about 3 tablespoons), freshly squeezed
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • Optional: chili powder or smoked paprika for a smoky, spicy twist

Instructions

  1. Peel back the husks of the corn without removing them completely. Remove all the silk and then fold the husks back over the corn. Soak the ears in cold water for about 15 minutes to prevent burning on the grill.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine melted butter, chopped cilantro, fresh lime juice, minced garlic, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until well blended to create the cilantro lime butter mixture.
  3. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat, approximately 375–400°F (190–205°C). If using charcoal, wait until the coals are covered with white ash.
  4. Remove the corn from the water and shake off excess. Place the corn directly on the grill grates. Grill for about 10-12 minutes, turning every 2-3 minutes with tongs to get even char marks on all sides. The husks will blacken slightly, and the kernels will become tender and juicy.
  5. During the last 5 minutes of grilling, carefully peel back the husks (or remove them entirely if preferred) and brush the corn generously with the cilantro lime butter. Turn the ears one last time to let the butter soak in.
  6. Remove the corn from the grill and brush again with any leftover butter mixture. Serve immediately while warm and juicy.

Notes

Soaking the corn in water before grilling helps keep the husks from burning and traps steam inside for tender kernels. Baste the corn in stages to build flavor. Keep grill at medium-high heat for best char without burning. Use tongs to turn corn to avoid piercing kernels. Let corn rest a minute after grilling to allow butter to soak in. For dairy-free option, substitute butter with olive oil or coconut oil.

Nutrition

Keywords: grilled corn, cilantro lime corn, summer recipe, barbecue side dish, easy grilled corn, cilantro lime butter, smoky corn on the cob