Irresistible Cheesy Pecorino Corn with Italian Herbs: Your Ultimate Summer Side Dish Recipe

Summer in the United States simply isn’t complete without the quintessential pleasure of sweet corn on the cob, generously slathered with warm, melted butter. This beloved tradition is particularly strong in the Midwest, where enjoying vast quantities of simple, unadulterated corn on the cob is a seasonal ritual. However, prepare to elevate your summer culinary traditions to an entirely new level with this exceptional recipe for Cheesy Pecorino Corn with Italian Herbs. This delightful dish takes the familiar sweetness of corn and infuses it with a sophisticated Italian twist, promising a side dish that is both comforting and exciting.

If the idea of an Italian recipe featuring corn as its primary ingredient strikes you as unusual, you’re absolutely right to think so! Traditional Italian cuisine doesn’t typically feature corn eaten directly off the cob or even removed from it in the way Americans enjoy it. In Italy, corn is predominantly used in its ground form, cornmeal, to create classic dishes like polenta – a versatile and hearty staple. Beyond polenta, the majority of corn grown in Italy serves a very different purpose: to fatten pigs, which ultimately contribute to the production of exquisite cured meats like prosciutto and pancetta. This historical context highlights the unique fusion character of our Cheesy Pecorino Corn recipe, blending American corn appreciation with Italian flavor profiles.

It’s worth noting that corn is not indigenous to Italy. This “new world” grain, along with many others, was introduced to Europe by Christopher Columbus following his voyages in the late 15th century, specifically around 1492. Interestingly, another cornerstone of Italian cuisine, the beloved tomato, also originated in the Americas. It’s almost impossible to imagine Italian dishes without the vibrant flavors of tomatoes today, yet they too were adopted and integrated into the culinary landscape over centuries. This historical parallel makes our Italian-inspired corn dish a fascinating, albeit modern, continuation of culinary adaptation and innovation, embracing global ingredients to create something truly delicious.

Regardless of its historical origins, what truly matters is the undeniable love Americans have for corn. We cherish the sweet, golden kernels that burst with flavor, especially during peak season. This intense appreciation for corn led me on a quest to find new and exciting ways to prepare it.

My inspiration for this fresh take on a classic side dish came from two highly-rated recipes utilizing fresh corn. While both were excellent, I felt each was missing a certain something that the other possessed. This realization sparked a series of experiments in my kitchen, meticulously combining elements, tweaking proportions, and introducing new ingredients. The result of this culinary exploration is this incredibly DELICIOUS corn recipe, imbued with a distinct Italian flair. It’s not just a side dish; it’s a flavor experience that will surprise and delight, transforming humble corn into something truly special.

A Truly Addicting Corn Side Dish!

Helpful Tips on Selecting and Cooking Fresh Corn:

• Choosing the Best Corn: When selecting corn, always look for ears with husks that are a very deep, dark green. These husks should tightly hug the corn cob, indicating freshness and plump kernels within. Avoid corn with loose or soft husks, as these are signs of older, less flavorful corn. The tighter the embrace of the husk, the better the corn will likely be, protecting its sweetness and moisture.
• The Tassel Tells All: The tassel (the fuzzy fluff at the top of the corn) is your freshest indicator. It should be slightly moist and a delicate, light gold color with a slightly sticky touch. Give it a good sniff; fresh corn will have a sweet aroma, completely free from any moldy or musty smells. If the tassel is dark brown or black, feels mushy, or has loose leaves, it means the corn is past its prime and should be avoided. A vibrant tassel promises vibrant flavor.
• Feel for Firm Kernels: Gently squeeze each ear of corn through the green leafy husk. You should feel firm, plump kernels throughout the cob. Avoid ears that feel hard or have soft spots, as this indicates either over-maturity (starchy corn) or damage. Uniformly firm kernels mean a satisfying bite and delicious texture.
• Watch Out for Wormholes: Inspect the husk carefully for any tiny brown holes, especially near the top. These are often wormholes, and any corn showing signs of insect activity should be passed over. Choosing unblemished corn ensures a clean and pleasant eating experience.
• Immediate Refrigeration is Key: Once you bring your fresh corn home, refrigerate it immediately. This slows down the conversion of sugar to starch, preserving its natural sweetness. For longer storage, you can cut the kernels off the cob and freeze them for later use in recipes like this one, ensuring you always have delicious corn on hand.
• Cook Freshly Picked Corn ASAP: This is perhaps the most crucial tip for enjoying corn at its peak. The natural sugars in corn kernels begin converting to starch almost immediately after being picked. In fact, within just 24 hours of harvest, corn can lose up to 25% of its sugar content to starch conversion. Therefore, the closer you cook corn to the moment it was picked, the sweeter and more succulent it will taste. Prioritize cooking fresh corn quickly to truly savor its unparalleled flavor.
• Optimal Storage Duration: Fresh corn is best prepared and eaten within 2 days of purchase. Beyond this timeframe, it tends to lose its tenderness and sweetness, becoming noticeably softer and starchy. Plan your meals accordingly to enjoy corn at its very best.
• Storing for a Few Days: To keep corn fresh for a couple of days, place it in the crisper drawer of your refrigerator, still in its husks. Wrap the ears tightly in a plastic bag with damp paper towels around them to maintain moisture. Dry air is corn’s nemesis; if the kernels dry out, they will quickly become starchy and lose their desirable texture and flavor.

This Cheesy Pecorino Corn recipe truly is amazing . . . and as easy as boiling corn on the cob!

Speaking of perfectly cooked corn!

What’s the Best Way to Cook Fresh Corn on the Cob?

To Boil, Grill, Roast, or Microwave Corn? Discover Your Favorite Method!

Boiling Fresh Corn: A Classic Approach

Boiling is arguably the simplest and most universally popular method for cooking fresh corn on the cob. It’s quick, straightforward, and results in tender, juicy kernels. This method is ideal for showcasing the corn’s natural sweetness and provides a perfectly cooked base for our Cheesy Pecorino Corn recipe.

• Preparation: Select a large, tall pot that can comfortably accommodate the ears of corn you plan to cook, ensuring there’s enough room to cover them completely with water. While the water comes to a boil, clean (husk) the corn by pulling back the green husks and silky tassels, then discarding them.
• Flavor Boost (Optional, but Recommended): For an extra layer of richness and flavor, consider adding 1 cup of milk and 1 stick of butter to the boiling water. This infusion enhances the corn’s natural creamy texture and taste.
• Cooking Process: Once the water (and optional milk/butter mixture) is at a rolling boil, carefully add the cleaned ears of corn. The addition of corn will momentarily cool the water, so allow the liquid to return to a boil before starting your timer. Cook for 8-10 minutes. This duration ensures the kernels are tender but still retain a slight bite, preventing them from becoming mushy.
• Serving: Promptly remove the corn from the cooking liquid using tongs. Serve immediately as a standalone side, or proceed with the recipe instructions for our Cheesy Pecorino Corn with Italian Herbs.

Grilling Fresh Corn: For Smoky, Enhanced Flavor

Grilling or oven roasting fresh corn is an excellent choice, especially when you’re feeding a larger crowd or seeking to impart a deeper, more enhanced flavor profile to your corn. The high heat of the grill caramelizes the sugars in the corn, creating delicious char marks and a delightful smoky taste that complements the Italian herbs and Pecorino cheese beautifully.

• Preheat the Grill: Begin by preheating your grill to a high heat, aiming for approximately 450ºF (230ºC). Achieving this high temperature is crucial for proper charring and even cooking.
• Husks On or Off?: You have the option to grill the corn with the husks on or removed. If you choose to leave the husks on, it’s essential to soak the corn in water for at least a minute or so before grilling. This prevents the husks from burning directly on the heat and steams the corn within, resulting in a tender texture.
• Butter Up for Flavor: If you decide to remove the husks, a thin layer of softened butter rubbed directly onto the corn kernels before grilling will add richness and help achieve an even char. You can also sprinkle with salt and pepper at this stage.
• Grilling Time: Place the corn on the preheated grill. Cover the grill and cook for 8 to 12 minutes, turning the corn every 2 to 3 minutes to ensure each side develops appealing char marks and cooks evenly. The exact time will depend on the heat of your grill and the size of your corn.

Oven-Roasted Fresh Corn: Convenience Meets Flavor

Oven roasting corn is a fantastic method for achieving tender, slightly caramelized kernels without needing a grill. It’s a convenient option, especially when preparing multiple dishes, and ensures consistent results every time. Roasting locks in the corn’s natural sweetness and prepares it perfectly for our cheesy, herbed treatment.

• Preparation: Start by shucking the corn, removing all husks and silk.
• Wrap for Tenderness: Place each ear of shucked corn on its own piece of aluminum foil. In the center of each ear, add a dollop of butter and sprinkle generously with salt and pepper. Tightly wrap each ear of corn in the aluminum foil, creating a sealed packet. This steams the corn while roasting, keeping it moist and tender.
• Roasting Instructions: Place the foil-wrapped corn packets directly onto the oven rack, butter side up. Roast at 375ºF (190ºC) until the kernels are tender, which typically takes about 30 minutes. The foil ensures even cooking and keeps the corn from drying out.
• Cooling Before Handling: To prevent burning your hands, allow the cooked corn to cool slightly within its foil packet before carefully unwrapping and handling. This makes it easier and safer to remove any remaining silk or to cut the kernels off the cob.

Microwave Fresh Corn: The Fastest Method for Quick Enjoyment

For those times when speed is of the essence, microwaving fresh corn is an unbeatable method. It’s incredibly fast, requires minimal cleanup, and yields perfectly tender corn that retains much of its natural moisture and sweetness. This method is ideal when you need cooked corn kernels in a hurry for your Cheesy Pecorino Corn dish.

• Keep Husks On: Place the corn, still in its green husks, directly onto a microwave-safe dish. Keeping the husks on helps to steam the corn, enhancing its tenderness and flavor.
• Microwave Time: Cook the corn for 4-5 minutes, or until the kernels are tender when gently squeezed through the husk. Cooking time may vary slightly depending on your microwave’s wattage and the size of the corn.
• Safety First: The cooked corn will be very hot. To prevent burning your hands, allow the corn to cool for a few minutes before attempting to remove the husk and silk. The husk and silk should peel away easily after microwaving.

Instant Pot Fresh Corn: Effortless Steaming for Perfect Kernels

The Instant Pot offers a remarkably efficient way to steam fresh corn, ensuring consistently tender and flavorful kernels with minimal effort. This pressure cooking method locks in moisture and nutrients, making it a favorite for busy cooks. It’s an excellent choice for preparing the corn base for our Italian-inspired recipe.

• Preparation: Begin by husking the corn, removing all green husks and silk. If you have particularly large ears of corn, you may need to cut them in half to ensure they fit comfortably within your Instant Pot.
• Steaming Setup: Pour 1 cup of water into the bottom of your Instant Pot. Place the trivet (the metal rack that typically comes with your Instant Pot) inside the pot. Stand the corn halves on top of the trivet, arranging them to ensure that each ear cooks evenly and does not directly touch the water.
• Post-Steaming Butter: Once the corn has steamed to perfection and the Instant Pot is still warm, you can melt as much butter as you prefer directly inside the pot. This allows for easy coating of the hot corn kernels, infusing them with rich flavor before they are incorporated into the Cheesy Pecorino Corn recipe.

More Delicious Corn Recipes That You May Enjoy!

• Grilled Italian Corn with Garlic Basil Butter
• Cheesy Corn Casserole with Pepper Jack, Butter Crumb Topping and Garlic
• Polenta
• Cheesy Fiesta Corn Dip
• Grill-Roasted Corn, Black Bean, and Avocado Salad with Cilantro Lime Vinaigrette

Products I Highly Recommend for Cooking with Fresh Corn

Deluxe Corn Stripper to Remove Kernels

Popco Tongs (Set of 3)

Kitchen Timer (Shape and Color of Corn Cob)

Heat Resistant Silicone Mini Hand Mitts (These are incredible!!!)

PIN FOR LATER! Save This Amazing Cheesy Pecorino Corn Recipe!

Print