Fiber-Rich Grilled Corn with Herb Butter

Elevate your summer BBQ with this vibrant Grilled Corn with Herb Butter!

Bursting with fresh herbs and lightly spiced garlic, this dish is naturally high in fiber, provides plant-based protein from goats cheese, and keeps saturated fats low.

Quick, easy, and crowd-pleasing, it’s perfect for weekday dinners, outdoor gatherings, or simple meal prep that feels indulgent yet wholesome.

Fiber-Rich Grilled Corn with Herb Butter

Ruth M. Moran
Tender, juicy corn on the cob coated in a fragrant garlic and herb butter, grilled to perfection, and finished with a sprinkle of soft goat cheese.
High in fiber, naturally gluten-free, and quick to prepare, this dish is an effortless way to add flavor and nutrition to your summer meals.
Prep Time 2 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 32 minutes
Course Side Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 2

Equipment

  • 1 bowl (medium)
  • 1 knife
  • 1 Chopping Board
  • Aluminum foil (enough to wrap 2 corn ears)
  • BBQ grill or oven

Ingredients
  

  • 2 ears sweetcorn husks removed and each ear halved
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 1 handful mixed fresh herbs basil, parsley, coriander, or your choice
  • 2 cloves garlic crushed
  • 1 pinch sea salt
  • 1 pinch ground black pepper
  • 20 g soft goat cheese crumbled

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the Corn: Start by selecting the freshest sweetcorn you can find—look for plump kernels and vibrant green husks.
    Carefully remove the leaves and silk from each ear. Once cleaned, cut each ear of corn in half to make handling and grilling easier.
    Place the corn halves on a clean surface or a plate while you prepare the herb butter.
  • Make the Herb Butter: In a medium mixing bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of soft butter with a handful of fresh herbs.
    You can use basil, parsley, and coriander, or substitute with your favorite fresh greens.
    Add 2 cloves of crushed garlic, a pinch of sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
    Mix everything together thoroughly with a spoon or spatula until you have a fragrant, even herb butter.
  • Coat the Corn: Using a spatula or your fingers, generously rub the prepared herb butter over every surface of the corn halves.
    Make sure the butter seeps into the kernels and covers the tips and sides evenly.
    This step ensures that each bite of corn will be infused with rich, aromatic flavors.
  • Wrap the Corn in Foil: Tear off two squares of aluminum foil large enough to fully enclose each corn half.
    Place each buttered corn piece in the center of a foil square.
    Fold the foil over the corn carefully, creating a tight seal to lock in moisture and flavors.
    Ensure there are no openings so the butter and herbs don’t leak during grilling.
  • Grill the Corn: Preheat your BBQ grill to medium heat. Place the foil-wrapped corn halves directly on the grill.
    Let them cook for 30 minutes, turning them halfway through cooking to ensure even heat distribution.
    The foil will steam the corn slightly while the grill adds subtle smoky notes, keeping the kernels tender and juicy.
  • Unwrap and Plate the Corn: Once cooked, carefully remove the corn from the grill. Use tongs to avoid burning your fingers.
    Place the foil packets on a serving platter and gently open them, releasing a burst of aromatic steam.
    Arrange the corn halves neatly on the platter for a visually appealing presentation.
  • Garnish with Goat Cheese and Extra Herbs: Sprinkle 20 grams of crumbled soft goat cheese over the hot corn.
    Scatter a few extra fresh herbs on top to enhance the presentation and flavor.
    The warmth of the corn will slightly melt the goat cheese, creating creamy pockets of deliciousness with every bite.
  • Serve and Enjoy: Serve the grilled corn immediately while it’s hot and fresh from the BBQ.
    This dish pairs beautifully with grilled meats, salads, or as a standalone snack. Optionally, add a pinch of red chili flakes if you like a little heat.
    Enjoy the perfect combination of tender, sweet corn with savory, aromatic herb butter and creamy goat cheese.

Notes

Choose fresh, firm corn with bright green husks for the sweetest flavor.
Avoid overcooking; 30 minutes on medium heat keeps kernels tender, not chewy.
You can vary herbs based on what’s available—thyme or oregano works well.
For a spicy twist, sprinkle red chili flakes or smoked paprika before serving.
Leftover corn can be cut from the cob and stored for salads or stir-fries.

Chef’s Secrets: Unlock Maximum Corn Flavor

For the most flavorful results, always start with the freshest corn you can find.

The natural sugars in fresh corn caramelize slightly during grilling, enhancing sweetness.

Don’t rush the herb butter—take a moment to crush the garlic and mix thoroughly with your herbs so every bite is aromatic.

Wrapping the corn tightly in foil ensures the butter steams into the kernels rather than burning, creating a tender, juicy texture.

You can even brush a little extra melted butter after grilling to intensify richness.

Serving Suggestions: Elevate Any Meal Easily

This grilled corn pairs beautifully with grilled meats like chicken, steak, or fish, adding a fresh, flavorful side to any BBQ.

For a lighter option, serve alongside a crisp garden salad or roasted vegetables.

It also works wonderfully as a snack or appetizer at summer parties—simply arrange the corn on a platter with extra crumbled goat cheese and herbs.

A drizzle of lime juice or a sprinkle of smoked paprika can add an extra layer of flavor and visual appeal

Storage Tips: Keep Corn Fresh Longer

If you have leftover grilled corn, carefully slice the kernels off the cob once cooled and store them in an airtight container in the fridge.

They will stay fresh for 2–3 days and can be reheated gently in a skillet, microwave, or oven.

Avoid freezing whole corn with butter and cheese, as the texture may become mushy.

For meal prep, consider storing buttered but ungrilled corn in the fridge for a day or two; simply grill when ready to eat for a freshly cooked flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh?

Yes, but the flavor and texture will be slightly different. Thaw frozen corn first and pat dry, then follow the butter and herb coating instructions before grilling.

It won’t have the same natural sweetness as fresh corn but still makes a tasty side dish.

2. Can I make this recipe without dairy?

Absolutely! Substitute butter with olive oil or a plant-based margarine, and replace goat cheese with a dairy-free alternative or nutritional yeast for a savory finish. The herbs and garlic will still create a flavorful dish.

3. How do I prevent the corn from sticking to the grill?

Always wrap the corn in foil to prevent sticking and retain moisture. Alternatively, lightly brush the grill with oil before placing the corn directly on the grates. Turning halfway ensures even cooking and prevents burning.

4. Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can make the herb butter and coat the corn a few hours in advance, then keep wrapped in the fridge. Grill or bake just before serving for fresh, hot corn.

5. What herbs work best with grilled corn?

Fresh herbs with bright, aromatic flavors work best. Basil, parsley, coriander, thyme, and chives all complement the sweetness of the corn.

Experiment with combinations based on what you have available to create unique flavor profiles.