Is there anything that screams summer more than fresh corn? During summer months it’s easy to find, sweet as sugar, and is the perfect complement to any festive BBQ or easy weeknight dinner. Part of what makes corn so wonderful is its versatility. There are so many ways to cook it: in the husk, out of the husk, wet cooking methods like boiling, or dry cooking methods like grilling – they all produce delicious corn. But which method is the best?

Take a look at all the methods tested below and find the method that’s best for you!

I went on a mission to find the best ways to cook this sweet summer veggie and broke down the pros and cons for each. Read on for some tips and tricks to make the most delicious sweet corn!

1. Microwave:

How To:

Remove the husks from each cob of corn and wrap each individually in a layer of damp paper towels. Place on a microwave safe plate or baking dish and cook on HIGH for five minutes. Let sit until cool enough to handle before unwrapping and serving.

Results:

The corn came out with good flavor, but some of the kernels came out a bit shriveled and slightly overcooked. This method is certainly the fastest, so it’s best if you are short on time and need to get dinner on the table in a hurry.

Pro Tip:

Hear some loud popping sounds while the corn is cooking? Don’t worry, it’s totally normal!

2. Boil:

How To:

Bring a large pot of liberally salted water to a rolling boil. Add corn cobs and cook for four to six minutes, depending on the size.

Results:

This method is probably the most traditional. Boiling for a few minutes produced tender, brightly colored corn that was cooked evenly. Other than the time it takes for the water to boil, it’s pretty quick, too!

Pro Tip:

Make sure to really heavily salt the water for the best flavor, especially if you are making a large batch! This method is best for health-conscious cooking since you can cook the corn without adding any fat.

3. Grill:

How To:

Brush corn with a bit of olive oil or spray with nonstick spray and place on a hot grill over medium or indirect heat. Turn frequently for 10 to 15 minutes depending on the size, until evenly charred on all sides.

Results:

This method is my favorite by far because I love that charred flavor the grill adds. The corn came out tender and sweet with a delicious smoky flavor. Plus, if you are already using the grill for other things, that means less dishes!

Pro Tip:

This method works great whether the corn is shucked or still in the husks. If you decide to grill with the husks on, it’s okay to let them get really black and charred. They will easily slip right off when you’re done!

4. Oven:

How To:

Preheat oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Place each corn cob on a square of foil, drizzle with some olive oil and season with salt and pepper (or other spices) if desired. Wrap tightly in the foil and place the cobs on a sheet pan. Cook for 30 minutes, then let sit until cool enough to handle and unwrap.

Results:

This is my favorite indoor cooking method! The corn came out so sweet, brightly colored, and juicy, and every cob was cooked evenly.

Pro Tip:

I love this method because it’s so hands off! If you have a lot of other dishes going or run out of room on the grill, this is a great hands-free alternative that makes delicious corn.

5. Sauté:

How To:

Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a small drizzle of olive oil. Add the corn cobs in an even layer and cook for 10 to 15 minutes, turning frequently until cooked through.

Results:

I found this method to be a bit fussy and it took a bit longer than I hoped to make sure the corn is evenly cooked all the way around, but it came out with a good flavor and texture and some light browning.

Pro Tip:

Although the flavor was good, this wasn’t my favorite cooking method for corn on the cob. I’d recommend using this method if you want to remove the kernels from the cob first. They will cook much faster this way!

What are your best tips and tricks for cooking sweet summer corn? Planning to give these methods a try? Share your photos and tag @tzimmesandcitrus and @kosherdotcom!

What foods do you want to see on our next edition of Best Taste Scenario? Let us know in the comments below!