Steamed Corn With Basil Butter
Steamed corn topped with a fragrant basil butter offers a fresh, flavorful side perfect for summer barbecues or casual gatherings. The combination of sweet corn with herbaceous basil and citrus zest creates a vibrant, aromatic dish that appeals to all ages, enhancing any meal with its bright, buttery richness.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine chopped fresh basil, softened butter or margarine, whipped butter, and grated orange rind in a small bowl, stirring until blended.
- Set aside.
- Cook the corn until tender, then spread the basil butter mixture evenly over the hot corn.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more intense basil flavor, consider using a basil-infused oil instead of plain butter. If you're short on fresh basil, dried basil can be used in smaller amounts, but fresh is best for this recipe. You can also replace the orange rind with lemon zest for a different citrus note. Make sure not to overcook the corn to maintain its sweetness and crunch.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the steamed corn with basil butter as a side dish for grilled meats or fish, or enjoy it as a light vegetarian option. It pairs beautifully with Gail's Creation for a fresh summer meal. You can also sprinkle some feta cheese on top for added flavor, or serve with a side of No Added Fat Cornbread for a hearty complement.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover steamed corn can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes or steam it lightly to preserve moisture. Avoid reheating in the oven, as it can dry out the corn.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Steamed Corn With Basil Butter contains roughly 988 calories, with 2g protein, 10g carbohydrates, and 106g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (39% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. It also contributes 9g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen corn can be used, but it won't have the same sweetness and texture as fresh corn. If using frozen, make sure to thaw and drain it before steaming. Adjust cooking time as needed, since frozen corn is typically pre-cooked.
What can I substitute for basil if I don't have any?
If you don't have basil, consider using fresh parsley or cilantro for a different flavor profile. You could also try using dried Italian herbs, but use less than the recipe calls for, as dried herbs are more concentrated.
Can I make the basil butter ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the basil butter mixture a day in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just remember to bring it back to room temperature before spreading it on the hot corn for the best flavor.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).