What Goes With Corn On The Cob? (Side Dish, Topping)

Summertime is the perfect time to enjoy delicious corn on the cob. But what goes well with it?

Here are what goes with corn on the cob:

Side dishes: Salad, Slaws, Baked beans, etc.
Main dishes: Grilled chicken, Pork chops, Hamburgers, etc.
Toppings: Butter & salt, Garlic butter, Bacon bits, Parmesan cheese, etc.

There are so many great side dishes that you can choose from! In this blog post, we will share some of our favorites.

So fire up the grill and get cooking!

Table of Contents

Corn on the Cob

What is It?

Corn on the cob is a delicious, summertime staple. It’s simple to prepare and can be enjoyed with a variety of different side dishes.

It is made up of kernels of corn that are attached to the cob. The kernels have a sweet flavor and are boiled or grilled, and then served with butter, salt, and pepper.

No matter how you prepare it, this nutritious food is sure to be a hit at your next summer BBQ!

What does cob mean in corn?

The cob is the part of the corn that the kernels are attached to. It’s also known as the stalk or stem.

It is the center component of the ears of corn (also known as maize). It’s where the kernels grow on the ear’s core.

Where is it from?

Corn is a summertime staple. It’s so popular that it’s enjoyed all over the world, including in Mexico and Latin America.

It originated in southern Mexico and the Central America region 9,000 years ago.

After the American Revolution, as settlers moved west into the Ohio River Valley, Northern Flint was brought by the Northerners and Southern Dent was carried by Southerners.

In addition to being a summertime favorite in North America and Europe, corn on the cob is also eaten year-round in countries like Brazil, China, and India!

Health benefits

Corn is one of the most popular high-fiber foods. It is a good source of dietary fiber, thiamin, and vitamin C. It also contains some potassium and magnesium.

Dietary fiber can help to regulate digestion, thiamin supports energy production, and vitamin C is an antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage.

Plus, corn is naturally low in fat and calories, making it a healthy choice for those watching their weight.

What Goes with Corn on the Cob?

What Side Dishes Go Well with Corn on the Cob?

Here are some delicious side dishes to choose from:

Salads

A fresh salad is a perfect accompaniment. It’s easy to make and goes well with almost any meal.

Fresh green salad is made of fresh vegetables such as lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, onions, and herbs.

Slaws

Slaws are another great choice. They’re quick and easy to make, and they’re perfect for summertime.

Grilled vegetables

They’re perfect for grilling out on the BBQ or cooking in your oven.

Potato salad

Potato salad is always a crowd-pleaser. It’s easy to make, and you can even add your twist by adding bacon bits or other ingredients like celery salt or paprika.

Baked beans

Baked beans are a classic side dish that goes great with grilled food. They’re easy to make and can be cooked in the oven or on the grill.

Pasta Salad

There are so many different pasta salads that you can choose from! If you’re looking for something light, try a Greek or Mediterranean-style pasta salad. If you want something heartier, go with a traditional Italian or American-style pasta salad.

Fruit salad

Fruit salad is a delicious side dish and goes well with almost anything. It’s easy to make, and you can add your twist by adding ingredients like strawberries, blueberries, or peaches.

Potato chips

Potato chips are another easy and tasty side dish that goes well with just about anything. They’re perfect for snacking on while you grill out, or you can serve them up as a side dish alongside your main course.

Sweet potatoes

Sweet potatoes are another wonderful option. Sweet potatoes are loaded with nutrients and antioxidants, which makes them a great choice for your health.

They’re also versatile and can be used in a variety of ways, including baking, roasting, sautéing, or frying.

Delicious wines

Wine is a great way to enjoy yourself during the summer months. You can have wine at home, or you can take advantage of all the fun activities around town.

What Main Dishes Go with Corn on the Cob?

In addition to delicious side dishes, there are also plenty of tasty main dishes that go great with the corn. Here are a few of our favorites:

Grilled chicken

Grilled chicken or barbecue chicken is a classic choice when it comes to summertime meals.

Grilled steak

Grilled steak is another classic choice for summertime meals. It’s a little bit more complicated to make than grilled chicken, but it’s definitely worth the effort.

BBQ ribs

BBQ Pork Ribs with Baked Beans and Corn. Credit: canva

Ribs are another classic summertime dish. They’re perfect for barbecues, and they always go over well with guests.

Pork chops

They’re easy to make, and you can add your twist by seasoning them with herbs or spices like rosemary, thyme, sage, and oregano.

Grilled hamburgers

Hamburgers are a classic summertime meal.

Pan-seared salmon

Pan-seared salmon is another delicious option for summertime meals.

What Toppings for Corn Cobs?

Elote (Mexican Street Corn on the Cob), smothered in a creamy mayo sauce and topped with chili powder, cheese, and lime. Credit: canva

There are so many different toppings for corn cobs that it can be hard to choose just one.

But don’t worry – we’ve got you covered with these options:

Butter and salt

Butter and salt is a classic topping, but it doesn’t have to be boring! Try adding some garlic powder or chili powder to the mix for an extra kick.

Garlic butter

Corn with garlic butter is another simple yet delicious option. Just spread some butter onto the ears before grilling.

Bacon bits

If you’re looking for a savory topping, bacon bits are always a good choice.

Parmesan cheese

If you’re looking for a cheesy topping, Parmesan cheese is always a good choice.

Sour cream and chives

Sour cream and chives are other classic toppings that go well with just about anything.

Mayonnaise

This creamy sauce goes well with just about anything, and it gives it an extra boost of flavor. If you like spicy food, you can also try corn with chili mayonnaise.

Hot sauce

If you like a little bit of heat, hot sauce is always a good choice.

How to Make Corn on the Cob?

Best Methods

There are several different methods that you can use to cook corn. Here are a few of our favorites:

Grill. The grill is probably the most popular way.
Bake. It is another popular method.
Boil. Easy to do, and it gives a delicious sweet flavor.
Steam.
Microwave. If you don’t have time to cook your corn in a pot of water or grill it, you can always microwave it. It’s easy to do, and you don’t have to worry about burning yourself on a hot grill or boiling water!

Tips

If you’re using grilled, boiled or microwaved, make sure to brush the corn with some butter or olive oil for extra flavor.
You can freeze it by blanching it in boiling water for a few minutes, then freezing it in airtight containers or bags. It will keep in the freezer for several months.

Recipes

Mexican Corn on the Cob (Elote) Recipe

This recipe is one of the vegetarian recipes and the best way to enjoy corn, which is brushed with melted butter and dusted with chili powder, cheddar cheese, and lime.

Ingredients:

6 ears corn, unhusked
6 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 teaspoons chili powder
1/4 cup grated cotija cheese
1/4 cup freshly chopped cilantro leaves
Juice of 2 limes

Directions:

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
Place the corn on a rack set in the middle of the oven and roast for about 40-45 minutes, or until it is tender and cooked through.
Take the corn, remove the husks, and scrape down all of the cobs. Rub 1 tablespoon of butter on each ear.
Serve warm, garnished with chili powder, cotija, cilantro, and lime juice.

Spicy Pan-Fried Chicken with Corn on the Cob & Tomato Salad

This recipe is homemade Southern cooking that is sweet and spicy. This delicious recipe is rather advanced cooking, but the result is worth the effort.

Ingredients:

2 Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs
6 oz Charm Tomatoes
2 cloves Garlic
2 ears Of Corn
1 bunch Parsley
2 Tbsps Butter
2 Tbsps White Wine Vinegar
1 Shallot
1 Tbsp Honey
1 Tbsp Hot Sauce
¼ cup Sour Cream
¼ cup Fried Chicken Spice Blend (All-Purpose Flour or white flour, Onion Powder, Garlic Powder, Cayenne Pepper, & Smoked Paprika)

Directions:

Prepare the ingredients & make the sauce:

Preheat the oven to 450°F.
Wash and dry the fresh produce.
Thinly slice the shallot and place it in a small bowl. Remove and finely chop the garlic. Add it to the bowl.
Remove and discard the corn husks and silks.
Halve the tomatoes and add them to a medium bowl with a pinch of salt and pepper.
Remove the parsley leaves from the stems and set them aside.
Combine the hot sauce and sour cream in a mixing dish. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Pickle the shallot:

Bring the shallot, vinegar, and 2 tablespoons of water to a boil in a small saucepan. On high, bring to a boil.
Once boiling, stir constantly for 30 seconds to 1 minute, or until the shallot is barely softened, before removing from heat.
Transfer to a heatproof mixing dish, stirring occasionally for at least 10 minutes.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Make the garlic butter & roast the corn:

While the shallot cools, add the butter to the garlic paste bowl. Stir until all of the butter has been absorbed.
Place the corn cobs on 2 large pieces of aluminum foil and coat them with the garlic butter on all sides. Season each portion with salt and pepper after drizzling them with 1 tablespoon of water each.
Wrap the foil tightly around each cob to seal it completely. Arrange on a sheet pan, wrapped in foil.
Roast for 13 to 15 minutes, or until tender.
Remove from the oven and set aside in a warm place.

Coat the chicken:

While the corn roasts spread the spice blend out on a plate.
Pat the chicken dry with paper towels; season both sides with salt and pepper.
Coat the seasoned chicken in the spice blend. Transfer to a separate plate.

Cook the chicken:

While the corn continues to roast, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil on a medium pan (or nonstick/cast iron) on medium until hot.
Once the oil is hot enough, add the coated chicken.
Cook 5 to 6 minutes per side, or until browned and cooked through.
Remove the cooked chicken from the heat and drizzle it with honey.

Make the salad & plate your dish:

Meanwhile, to the bowl of seasoned tomatoes, add the parsley, pickled shallot, and a drizzle of olive oil.
Stir to combine; season with salt and pepper to taste.
Carefully unwrap the roasted corn, and place it in a serving dish.
Serve two plates each with half of the cooked chicken and salad.
Drizzle the chicken with the garlic butter you set aside.
Serve with the corn and sauce on the side. Enjoy!

Other Recipes

Other variations recipes include:

Buttery corn cobs (classic)
Barbecued
Sweetcorn with smoked paprika and lime butter
Grilled corn with jerk butter
Cheesy
Grilled corn with chili mayonnaise, coriander & feta
Yakitori corn pops
Shredded charred corn salad
Grilled corn with garlic mayo & grated cheese
BBQ corn cobs with comte & herb butter
Golden roast chicken with sweetcorn, sage & garlic
Sweet corn dippers with sugar & spice
Caribbean style corn

FAQs

What kind of meat goes with corn on the cob?

Pork chops are a great choice for a summer meal. They’re easy to make, and they go well with just about any type of seasoning.

What goes well on corn on the cob?

There are so many different toppings that you can use, but some of our favorites include butter and salt, bacon bits, Parmesan cheese, sour cream and chives, and mayonnaise.

What goes with corn on the cob vegetarian?

If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, try grilled vegetables like zucchini or eggplant. You can also use canned beans as a source of protein instead of meat.