Print

Fresh Grilled Corn on the Cob with Zesty Cilantro Lime Butter

grilled corn on the cob with cilantro lime butter - featured image

A quick and easy grilled corn recipe featuring a bright, tangy cilantro lime butter that adds a fresh kick to sweet, smoky corn. Perfect for summer gatherings and simple meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 ears fresh corn on the cob, husks removed
  • ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
  • ¼ cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
  • 1 teaspoon lime zest
  • 1 clove garlic, minced (optional)
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • Pinch of freshly ground black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Cilantro Lime Butter: In a medium bowl, combine ½ cup softened unsalted butter, ¼ cup finely chopped fresh cilantro, 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice, 1 teaspoon lime zest, and 1 minced garlic clove (if using). Add ½ teaspoon salt, a pinch of freshly ground black pepper, and ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika. Mix thoroughly with a fork or small spatula until smooth and evenly distributed. Taste and adjust salt or lime juice as needed. Set aside.
  2. Prep the Corn: Husk the 4 ears of fresh corn, removing all silk threads. Rinse under cold water and pat dry with a clean towel to ensure the corn chars nicely instead of steaming.
  3. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high, about 400°F (200°C). If using charcoal, wait until the coals are glowing and covered with white ash.
  4. Grill the Corn: Place the ears of corn directly on the grill grates. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning every 2-3 minutes with tongs so the kernels get evenly charred and blistered in spots.
  5. Butter It Up: Remove the corn from the grill and immediately brush generously with the cilantro lime butter. The heat will melt the butter, soaking into the kernels. For extra flavor, spread a little more butter after a minute or two.
  6. Serve: Serve the corn warm, with lime wedges on the side for an optional fresh squeeze before eating.

Notes

Make the cilantro lime butter up to 3 days in advance and keep refrigerated. Bring to room temperature before spreading. Keep grill temperature steady around medium-high to avoid burning. Fresh corn with bright green husks and plump kernels works best. For dairy-free, use plant-based butter alternatives. Optional additions include chili powder, jalapeño, or Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.

Nutrition

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