Corn is synonymous with summer. Perhaps you have memories of shucking corn and then watching as mom tossed it in a pot or on the grill.
Sure, you can make corn the traditional way. But this summertime staple can also add some crunch and sweetness to salads, dips and more. If you're worried about the calories, it only has about 110 per ear—less than the average banana—and is loaded with B vitamins, vitamin C, magnesium, potassium and fiber.
So, get inspired for your next picnic or cookout with some of our favorite creative corn dishes.
Tomato and Corn Pie
Ever try a tomato pie? It's a delicious Southern dish, baked in a pie shell. Here, the blogger advises you to seed and juice your tomatoes; otherwise you may have a mushy base. She also says it's worth peeling the tomatoes so you don't taste chewy tomato skins. The pie can be baked a day in advance and chilled. Then follow her reheating instructions.
Slow Cooker Corn on the Cob
To many people, the best way to enjoy summer corn is right off the cob. But sometimes you don't have space on the grill or time to cook it. That's where slow cookers come into play. They'll enable you to enjoy some hot and tasty corn even after a long day. Top your corn with items like butter, salt, fresh pepper, chili powder, olive oil or fresh basil ribbons.
Black Bean and Corn Salad
In the mood for corn but no time to run to the farmer's market? Our recipe uses frozen corn kernels so you can make a corn dish, even if you're short on shopping time.
Sweet Corn Grilled Guacamole
Corn in your guacamole? Don't dismiss it. Once you try it, you'll see what you've been missing. Grilled avocados add a special touch here, giving the appetizer a caramelized and smoky taste. And the dish is loaded with sweet corn kernels and goat cheese that give it an extra creaminess. Serve with tortilla chips or just dive in with a spoon.
Hot Corn Dip
This classic dip recipe is quick, easy and delicious. The recipe's colorful ingredients make it look festive and appealing, guaranteeing it to be a party favorite. Customize the dip based on what ingredients you have on hand and how hot you want it to be. Serve it warm straight from the oven with your favorite chips. And watch it disappear!
California Burrito With Grilled Zucchini
These fresh and flavorful burritos will be loved thanks to their smoky and zippy flavor. The meat is juicy and simple, and the grilled zucchini and corn are mouthwatering. It's sure to be your new favorite burrito.
Summer Veggie Saute
Sometimes the best dishes are the simplest ones. The blogger says that she and her husband devoured this light and flavorful dish along with some pork chops. Sample it outside on a summer's night.
Tex Mex Corn Fritters
Looking for a creative way to eat corn? These fritters are filled with corn. They're best if you use fresh corn, but you can substitute frozen if fresh isn't available. Serve hot with some jalapeno pepper slices, chopped green onions and plain yogurt.
Creamy Grilled Corn Pasta
Corn plus pasta? The blogger swears it's underrated. This pasta dish is rich and creamy without being too heavy. The satisfying meal boasts grilled corn (which gives it a nice crunch and summertime freshness), feta cheese, basil and grilled scallions. Make this easy meal on a weeknight or whip it up over the weekend to impress guests.
Creamed Corn
You may enjoy this side dish so much that you eat an entire plate of it as your main course. What makes it special is that it boasts the creamy quality of creamed corn but with the taste of fresh corn. The corn here tastes crisp and fresh, like it's right off the cob.
