Experience the vibrant flavors of summer with this incredibly delicious Pesto Parmesan Grilled Corn. Combining the natural sweetness of perfectly grilled corn with the rich, aromatic notes of pesto, savory Parmesan cheese, and a fresh hint of basil, this dish is nothing short of culinary perfection. It’s an effortless yet impressive side that promises to be a showstopper at any backyard barbecue or family meal.
Pesto Parmesan Grilled Corn: Your Ultimate Summer Side Dish
As the days grow longer and the sun shines brighter, summer officially arrives, bringing with it a bounty of fresh produce and an invitation to enjoy outdoor cooking. For many, summer is synonymous with grilled foods, and chief among them is the humble yet versatile corn on the cob. While classic buttered corn is always a hit, elevating this seasonal favorite with bold flavors can transform it into an unforgettable culinary experience.
This Pesto Parmesan Grilled Corn recipe is designed to do just that. It takes the inherent sweetness and juicy texture of corn, enhancing it with the vibrant, herbaceous notes of pesto and the salty, umami depth of Parmesan cheese. A sprinkle of fresh basil ties all these components together, creating a symphony of flavors that perfectly captures the essence of summer. Imagine biting into a warm ear of corn, charred just right, with the creamy pesto clinging to each kernel and the cheese melting delicately – pure bliss!
Forget complicated preparations; this dish is incredibly simple to make, making it ideal for busy weeknights or large gatherings. It’s a fantastic way to impress your guests without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser that appeals to a wide range of palates. Prepare for rave reviews and empty cobs!
Why Pesto Parmesan Grilled Corn is a Must-Try Recipe
When it comes to summer sides, grilled corn often reigns supreme. Its sweet, juicy kernels and satisfying crunch are hard to beat. But why stop at the basics? This Pesto Parmesan Grilled Corn recipe takes a classic and infuses it with Mediterranean-inspired zest, creating a dish that is both familiar and exciting. Here’s why it deserves a spot on your summer menu:
- Unbeatable Flavor Combination: The pairing of sweet corn with savory, garlicky pesto and sharp Parmesan cheese is a match made in culinary heaven. The fresh basil adds a final layer of herbaceous aroma that brightens every bite.
- Effortless Preparation: This recipe is designed for maximum flavor with minimal effort. Using store-bought pesto and pre-grated Parmesan simplifies the process, allowing you to focus on the joy of grilling and enjoying your company. Even if you choose to make your own pesto from scratch, the steps remain straightforward.
- Versatile Side Dish: Pesto Parmesan Grilled Corn complements a wide variety of main courses. It’s fantastic alongside grilled chicken, steaks, fish, burgers, or even as part of a vegetarian spread. Its vibrant flavors make it suitable for casual picnics, elaborate barbecues, or simple family dinners.
- Visually Appealing: The bright green of the pesto, the golden hue of the corn, and the specks of fresh basil create a beautiful presentation that will add a pop of color to your table.
- Healthy and Fresh: Corn is a good source of fiber and vitamins, and when combined with fresh basil and the healthy fats from pesto, it makes for a relatively nutritious side dish that everyone can feel good about enjoying.
Mastering the Art of Pesto Parmesan Grilled Corn
Creating this crave-worthy corn is incredibly easy, making it perfect for both novice and experienced grill masters. Follow these simple steps to achieve perfectly flavored grilled corn every time:
- Prepare the Corn: Begin by carefully peeling back the corn husks. Remove all the silky threads that cling to the kernels. A good trick is to rinse the corn under cool water after shucking and gently rub away any stubborn silks. This ensures clean, ready-to-grill ears. Once cleaned, lightly brush each ear of corn with a touch of olive oil. This helps prevent sticking and promotes a nice char.
- Grill to Perfection: Place the prepared corn directly on a preheated grill over medium-high heat. Rotate the ears every few minutes to ensure even cooking and beautiful grill marks. The goal is tender, juicy kernels with a slight char for added smoky flavor. If you need detailed grilling tips for corn, including techniques for grilling with or without husks, be sure to check out comprehensive guides like Basics by The BakerMama: How to Grill Corn for perfectly grilled results every time. Grill for approximately 10-15 minutes, or until the corn is tender and slightly browned.
- Flavor Infusion: Once the corn is perfectly grilled, carefully remove it from the heat. While still warm, brush each ear generously with approximately one tablespoon of prepared pesto. The warmth of the corn will help the pesto melt and coat the kernels beautifully, allowing its flavors to meld.
- Add the Cheese and Basil: Immediately after applying the pesto, sprinkle each ear with about one teaspoon of grated Parmesan cheese. The residual heat will soften the cheese, making it wonderfully creamy. Finish by sprinkling a pinch of fresh, chopped basil over each ear. The vibrant green and aromatic scent of the basil provide the perfect finishing touch.
- Serve and Savor: Serve the Pesto Parmesan Grilled Corn immediately, allowing your guests to experience the peak of its flavors. Don’t be afraid to get a little messy – this dish is meant to be enjoyed with enthusiasm.
Tips for the Best Pesto Parmesan Grilled Corn
- Choose Fresh Corn: The success of this recipe starts with fresh ingredients. Look for corn cobs with bright green husks that are tightly wrapped and feel firm to the touch. The silks should be slightly damp and golden brown.
- Quality Pesto Matters: While store-bought pesto is convenient, opt for a high-quality brand. If you have extra time, making your own fresh pesto will elevate the flavor significantly.
- Fresh Basil is Key: Don’t skip the fresh basil garnish. It adds a crucial layer of freshness and aromatic complexity that dried basil simply cannot replicate.
- Don’t Overcook: Grilling corn until it’s tender with a slight char is ideal. Overcooking can make it dry and less sweet.
- Experiment with Toppings: Feel free to customize! A squeeze of fresh lemon juice, a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat, or even a drizzle of balsamic glaze can add exciting twists.
Craving More Irresistible Summer Sides?
Summer is a season for effortless and flavorful eating, from refreshing dips to surprisingly robust salads. If you’re a fan of the sweet and smoky taste of grilled corn, you’ll love exploring other creative ways to incorporate it into your summer menu. Here are a few more delicious recipes to inspire your warm-weather cooking:
- Grilled Corn Salad with Strawberries, Feta and Mint: For a truly unique and refreshing salad, try my Grilled Corn Salad with Strawberries, Feta and Mint. This unexpected combination offers a delightful balance of sweet, savory, and tangy notes, making it a perfect light lunch or vibrant side dish.
- Watermelon Feta Salad with Mint and Balsamic Glaze: Another stellar sweet and savory pairing comes in the form of my Watermelon Feta Salad. Juicy watermelon, salty feta, and invigorating mint, all drizzled with a rich balsamic glaze, create a truly addictive and cooling summer treat.
- Grilled Brie with Strawberries: For an elegant yet simple appetizer that’s perfect for summer entertaining, look no further than this Grilled Brie with Strawberries. The combination of creamy, melted Brie cheese, sweet ripe strawberries, and a hint of tangy balsamic vinegar is utterly divine. It’s a sophisticated starter that will surely impress your guests.
I genuinely hope this Pesto Parmesan Grilled Corn becomes a beloved staple in your summer recipe collection. Its vibrant flavors and ease of preparation make it an ideal choice for any occasion, from a casual weeknight dinner to a festive backyard celebration. When you decide to make this delightful dish, please consider sharing your culinary creations! Snap a picture and tag me on Instagram @thebakermama so I can admire your delicious results. If you’re on Facebook, I invite you to join my Friends of The BakerMama group. It’s a wonderful community where we connect, share our cooking adventures, and celebrate all the fun and yummy recipes you create from my blog. I absolutely love seeing how inspired and creative you all get with the ideas I share!
Happy grilling and enjoy every flavorful bite this summer!
xoxo,
Pesto Parmesan Grilled Corn
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- Author: The BakerMama
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
For a zesty summer side dish, this Pesto Parmesan Grilled Corn hits all the right notes. Sweet corn, nutty pesto, savory Parmesan cheese, and fresh basil.
Ingredients
- 4 ears of corn
- Olive Oil
- 1/4 cup prepared pesto
- 4 teaspoons grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 teaspoons chopped fresh basil
Instructions
- Prepare and grill the corn until tender and slightly charred. (See my Basics by The BakerMama: How to Grill Corn for detailed grilling tips).
- Remove the corn from the grill.
- While the corn is still warm, brush each ear with one tablespoon of pesto, sprinkle with one teaspoon of grated Parmesan cheese, and then sprinkle with a pinch of chopped fresh basil.
- Serve immediately and enjoy the delightful flavors!