What to Eat with Corn on the Cob: 31 Interesting Side Dishes
I’ll never forget the time I hosted a Fourth of July barbecue and realized I had no side dishes to serve with the corn on the cob.
I was so embarrassed. I mean, how could I have forgotten something as important as that?
Thankfully, I was able to come up with a few last-minute solutions that saved the day.
And ever since then, I’ve been determined never to be caught off guard like that again.
So today, I’m sharing with you a list of side dishes that go perfectly with corn on the cob.
With these recipes in your back pocket, you’ll be able to whip up a delicious and complete meal that everyone will love.
So what are you waiting for? Let’s get started!
Side dishes for corn on the cob
- Sliced tomatoes
- Coleslaw
- Mac and cheese
- Potato salad
- Potato chips
- Desserts
- Sloppy joes
- Ribs
- Whitefish
- Hot Dogs
- Burgers
- Salmon
- Edamame
- Fresh Vegetables
- Black Bean
- Baked Russet Potatoes
- Baked Sweet Potatoes
- Fruit Salad
Sliced tomatoes
Sliced tomatoes are a healthy and light side dish that goes well with corn on the cob. The tomatoes are refreshing and have a mild flavor that compliments the sweetness of the corn.
To make the dish, start by slicing the tomatoes into thin wedges. Then, dress them with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and your favorite seasonings. Salt and pepper are a good place to start, but feel free to get creative with herbs and spices like basil and fresh oregano.
Once the tomatoes are seasoned, arrange them on a plate and serve alongside grilled or boiled corn on the cob. Enjoy!
Coleslaw
Coleslaw is the perfect side dish for corn on the cob. The healthy and hearty salad is satisfying and filling, and the shredded cabbage and carrots add a sweet crunch to each bite. Plus, the dressing pairs perfectly with the buttery corn.
Coleslaw is a healthy alternative to other side dishes and is low in calories. It is also a good source of Vitamin C and can help you meet your daily recommended intake of fruits and vegetables.
Overall, coleslaw is a delicious, nutritious, and easy way to round out a summer meal.
Mac and cheese
Mac and cheese is one of the most classic and delicious side dishes out there. Its creamy, cheesy goodness pairs perfectly with the sweetness of corn on the cob.
Plus, it’s super easy to make – even if you’re using a ready-made mix! Just add some milk, butter, and your favorite seasonings (I like to use rosemary and garlic) and you’re good to go.
So next time you’re looking for the perfect side dish to accompany your corn on the cob, look no further than good ol’ mac and cheese. You won’t be disappointed!
Potato salad
Potato salad is a classic side dish that goes well with a variety of main courses, including grilled corn on the cob. It is usually creamy and light, and its mayonnaise-based dressing is both refreshing and flavorful.
Potato salad can be made ahead of time and served cold, which makes it a convenient option for summertime gatherings. And since it is so versatile, it can be made in many different ways. You can add diced onions, celery, pickles, hard-boiled eggs, bacon, or anything else you like. You can even use up leftover potatoes.
When making potato salad, be sure to season it generously with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs. This will help to bring out the flavors of the potatoes and give the salad a bit of zing.
Overall, potato salad is a simple side dish that can help to round out any meal.
Potato chips
Potato chips are a classic snack food that pairs well with many different dishes. One dish that it goes especially well with is corn on the cob. The saltiness of the potato chips compliments the sweetness of the corn, and the two flavors work together to create a filling and satisfying meal.
Potato chips also add an extra layer of texture to the dish, making it more enjoyable to eat. In addition, they are an inexpensive and easy way to add flavor to a simple dish.
Potato chips also have the tendency to absorb flavors, so they can be a great way to add extra seasoning to your corn on the cob. When choosing potato chips as a side dish, just be sure to look for a brand that is low in trans fats and made with natural ingredients.
Desserts
Desserts and corn on the cob make for an unlikely but delicious combination. The sweetness of the dessert compliments the savory taste of the corn and the two dishes together provide a well-rounded and satisfying meal.
Desserts such as cakes, pies, brownies, and pound cake are all excellent choices to pair with corn on the cob. A slice of cake or pie is the perfect size to enjoy alongside a few pieces of corn, and the rich flavor of chocolate or fruit is a nice contrast to the simple taste of boiled corn.
Best of all, enjoying a sweet treat at the end of a meal is always a satisfying way to finish off a meal.
Sloppy joes
Sloppy joes are the perfect complement to a summertime corn-on-the-cob dinner. The filling and slightly spicy nature of the dish pairs well with the sweet, fresh corn.
Sloppy joes are also the ideal summertime food, so they are the perfect addition to any outdoor meal. Plus, they’re just plain delicious!
So next time you’re looking for a side dish to complement your corn on the cob, look no further than Sloppy Joes.
Ribs
Ribs and corn on the cob are a classic pairing that is often seen at summer BBQs. The succulent, juicy ribs are the perfect complement to the sweet, crunchy corn.
But why does this pairing work so well?
One reason is that the fat from the ribs helps to balance out the sweetness of the corn. Another reason is that the two dishes have similar cooking times, which makes them easy to prepare together.
Ribs also tend to be very messy, and the cob can act as a sort of “mop” to help clean up any stray bits of meat. Whether you’re grilling for a crowd or just whipping up a quick dinner for yourself, ribs and corn on the cob is a scrumptious pairing that is sure to please.
Whitefish
Whitefish is an excellent side dish for corn on the cob. There are many benefits to using white fish as a side dish. It is a good source of protein and is low in fat. It is also a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health.
Whitefish is also a good source of calcium and phosphorus, which are essential for bone health. Additionally, it is a good source of selenium, which is a powerful antioxidant that helps to protect cells from damage.
Many recipes pair well with white fish, such as grilled salmon with roasted vegetables or baked cod with mashed potatoes. Whitefish can also be used as a substitute for other proteins in recipes, such as chicken or beef.
When pairing white fish with corn on the cob, it is important to consider the other flavors in the dish. For example, if the corn on the cob is being served with a creamy sauce, then a milder white fish such as haddock or sole would be a good choice.
On the other hand, if the corn on the cob is being served with a more flavorsome sauce or spice, then a stronger-flavored white fish such as tuna or swordfish would be a better choice.
Hotdogs
Hotdogs are a great side dish for corn on the cob. They are easy to cook, and they go well with corn. Hotdogs are also a good source of protein, and they are low in fat. If you are looking for a healthy side dish, hotdogs are a good choice.
There are many recipes where you can use hotdogs as a side dish. You can grill them, bake them, or even fry them. Hotdogs are also a good addition to salads and soups.
If you want to add some extra flavor to your corn on the cob, try adding some cheese or salsa to your hotdog. You can also try adding some different toppings to your hotdogs, such as onions, peppers, or ketchup.
Burgers
There are a few benefits of using burgers as a side dish for corn on the cob. One is that it significantly cuts down on cooking time, as you can cook the burgers while the corn is boiling.
Additionally, it provides a delicious and protein-packed accompaniment to an otherwise fairly simple dish. And finally, it allows you to customize your corn on the cob according to your preferences. For example, you could add cheese to your burger patty or top your corn with avocado and sour cream.
Salmon
Salmon is a versatile and delicious fish that can be enjoyed in many different ways. One of my favorite summertime dishes is salmon grilled on the BBQ with fresh corn on the cob. The two together make for a perfectly balanced meal, full of flavor and nutrients.
Salmon is rich in healthy omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for maintaining heart health. Additionally, it is a great source of protein, and the grilled version pairs perfectly with the sweetness of fresh corn.
Edamame
Edamame, or soybeans, is a type of legume that is popular in many Asian cuisines. In addition to being eaten alone as a snack, they can also be used as a side dish for corn on the cob.
Edamame has numerous health benefits, including being a good source of protein and fiber. It is also low in calories and fat. Additionally, soybeans contain phytoestrogens, which can help to regulate hormone levels and reduce the risk of certain types of cancer.
When choosing a recipe for edamame as a side dish for corn on the cob, it is important to select one that compliments the flavors of the corn. For example, recipes with spices such as cumin or chili powder can help to enhance the flavor of the corn.
Moreover, edamame can be served cold or warm, depending on your preference. When served cold, edamame can be used as a dip for corn on the cob. If you are looking for a healthier alternative to traditional butter or sour cream dips, edamame is an excellent choice.
Fresh Vegetables
When it comes to side dishes, there are countless options to choose from. However, if you’re looking for a healthy and delicious option to pair with your corn on the cob, fresh vegetables are always a great choice.
Not only do they add color and flavor to your meal, but they also provide a variety of health benefits. For example, carrots are packed with vitamins and minerals, while broccoli is a good source of fiber.
Fresh vegetables also make a great base for other recipes. For example, if you’re feeling adventurous, you could try making a vegetable stir-fry to accompany your corn on the cob. Or, if you’re looking for something a little simpler, steamed veggies are always a tasty option.
Black Beans
Black beans make a delicious and nutritious side dish for corn on the cob. They are high in fiber and protein, and they offer a variety of other health benefits as well.
Black beans are also a great source of folate, iron, and magnesium. Plus, they’re low in fat and calories. When paired with corn on the cob, black beans make a complete meal that is both healthy and satisfying.
There are endless ways to enjoy black beans as a side dish. Here are just a few ideas:
- Try black beans in place of traditional refried beans. Simply mash them up with a little bit of water or broth and add your favorite seasonings. Serve them alongside your favorite Mexican dishes.
- Make a simple black bean salad by mixing black beans with diced tomatoes, onions, avocado, and cilantro. Season with lime juice, salt, and pepper to taste. Serve this salad alongside grilled meats or fish.
- Use black beans as a topping for baked potatoes or sweet potatoes. Top with shredded cheese and chopped green onions for extra flavor.
Baked Russet Potatoes
In my opinion, baked russet potatoes are an excellent side dish for corn on the cob. Here are some reasons why:
- They are both hearty and filling, which makes them a good choice for a summertime meal.
- Corn on the cob can be a bit messy, and the potatoes help to soak up any excess butter or sauces.
- The potatoes can be flavored in many different ways – whether you prefer them savory or sweet.
- They can be cooked ahead of time, which means less work for you when it’s time to eat.
- Baked potatoes pair well with lots of other dishes – not just corn on the cob.
Baked Sweet Potatoes
Baked sweet potatoes are a delicious and healthy side dish that can be enjoyed with many different types of meals. Corn on the cob is a classic summertime food, and baked sweet potatoes are the perfect accompaniment.
Sweet potatoes are packed with nutrients, including fiber, vitamins A and C, and potassium. They are also low in calories and fat. Baked sweet potatoes can be enjoyed plain or topped with butter, salt, and pepper. They can also be used as a base for other toppings, such as chili, cheese, or salsa.
Fruit Salad
Fruit salad is a great side dish for corn on the cob. There are many benefits to using fruit salad as a side dish. For one, it is a healthy option.
Fruit salad is packed with nutrients and antioxidants that can help protect your body against disease. Additionally, It is a low-calorie option, making it a great choice if you are watching your weight.
Another benefit of using fruit salad as a side dish is that it is versatile. It can be made with any type of fruit, so you can tailor it to your taste.
Finally, fruit salad is easy to make. All you need is some chopped fruit and a little bit of dressing, and you’re good to go.
More exciting options
- Southwestern BBQ bacon burger
- Texas chili copycat
- Oven-roasted pork chops
- Dr. Pepper glazed ham
- Braised chicken thighs
- Seared sirloin steak
- Grilled ribeye
- Chicken Caprese
- Lime and tequila grilled shrimps
- Cheddar & Jalapeno stuffed pork tenderloin
- Vegetable Calzone
- Grilled shrimp quesadillas
- Chicken nuggets
- Pulled BBQ or grilled chicken
- Zucchini fries
- Ham & cheese sliders
- Grilled swordfish & kale pesto
- Chicken parmesan
- Shrimp fajitas
- Pepperoni pizza sliders
- Stuffed bell peppers
- Carnitas
Conclusion
When it comes to what to eat with corn on the cob, there are plenty of delicious options to choose from.
Whether you’re looking for a salty or sweet side dish, there’s sure to be something that will pair well with your corn. So next time you’re planning a meal, don’t forget about these tasty side dishes that go great with corn on the cob.