It’s August. The days are still long, the sun still warms our patios, and our gardens still give us summer’s bounty. Sweet corn is at its absolute best right now. So here are some recipes to celebrate this native North American crop first cultivated by this land’s Indigenous people some 9,000 years ago.
Elotes
Elote is a popular Mexican street food featuring grilled corn flavored with chile, lime, cotija cheese, and mayo. Elote is best eaten straight off the grill as an anytime snack, but can round out any summery meal.
Grilled Adobo Flank Steak with Corn and Tomato Relish
This sizzling summer recipe is perfect for an outdoor grill, friendly for gluten-free diets, and takes only 45 minutes from start to finish. Serve with warm corn tortillas and avocado slices to make it a meal!
Roasted Sweet Corn Bread
Cornbread is always a treat, but when you have some leftover grilled corn, you have a fantastic addition to a pan of golden goodness. The one makes a great side for beans, soups and greens.
Calabacitas
For when you need comfort food that tastes like summer. Wrap simple and tasty calabacitas (sautéed zucchini, corn, tomatoes and green chilies) in tortillas or serve as a side.
Black Bean, Corn, and Roasted Tomato Quesadillas
Simple and satisfying, these tasty quesadillas are perfect as an appetizer or lunch dish. Make a large batch and freeze to reheat on the stove when you need a quesadilla in your life.
Lowcountry Shrimp Boil
Gather your family or roommates for Sunday dinner! Line your table with newspaper or butcher block paper and serve this fun, communal meal sans tableware. Mix and match your favorite seafood and sausage to make it yours.
Corn Cakes with Avocado
A fabulous side to your favorite Southwestern fare, these lightly browned corn cakes do double duty as an appetizer.
Corn with Cilantro and Cumin Butter
Taking cues from Mexican steet-style corn, these ears pair perfectly with grilled summer fare. Make the swap to vegan butter for a dairy free version.
Mango, Bean, and Corn Salad
Tangy and sweet, this festive salad is great for potlucks, picnics or dinner anytime. Turn this salad into a dip with scoopy-shaped corn chips.
Chipotle Corn Chowder
Just in case you need a warm-you-from-the-inside-out kind of meal. Serve in a sourdough bread bowl for even more feel good eating.
Maque Choux Southern Corn Salad
Explore traditional Creole cuisine with this simple corn salad alongside crab or shrimp.
Grilled Corn Salad with Honey-Lime Dressing
Sweet corn takes on a slightly smoky quality after a few turns on a hot grill. Add a tangy, sweet dressing and tender cubes of avocado, and you have a feast of flavors, colors and textures with minimal effort.
Spicy Summer Gnocchi with Corn, Zucchini, and Ground Beef
A spicy and creamy dish featuring summer produce that is a breeze to make and sure to impress!
Fresh Sweet Corn Fritters
These aren’t just any fritters. These are Zero Waste Fritters. All of the ingredients are available from the Bulk and Produce Departments.