Introduction
Honey Butter Skillet Corn is a delightful and easy-to-make side dish that combines the natural sweetness of corn with the rich flavors of honey and butter. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a delicious side for a family gathering. The combination of sweet and savory elements makes it a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses. Whether you’re using fresh or frozen corn, this recipe is simple, quick, and always a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
- 4 cups of sweet corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 2 tablespoons of butter
- 2 tablespoons of honey
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
- 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Skillet
Begin by placing a large skillet over medium heat. Add the butter to the skillet and allow it to melt completely. The butter not only adds richness to the dish but also helps to achieve a beautiful caramelization on the corn kernels. As the butter melts, it will start to bubble slightly, signaling that it’s ready for the next step.
Step 2: Sauté the Corn
Once the butter has melted, add the sweet corn kernels to the skillet. If you’re using fresh corn, make sure it’s been shucked and the kernels have been removed from the cob. For frozen corn, there’s no need to thaw it beforehand; just add it directly to the skillet. Sauté the corn for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking. The goal here is to heat the corn through and start the caramelization process.
Step 3: Add the Honey
After the corn has sautéed for a few minutes, pour in the honey. Honey adds a natural sweetness that complements the corn’s own sweetness, while also helping to create a slight caramelization. Stir the corn well to ensure that each kernel is evenly coated with the honey. As the honey heats, it will thin out and mix with the butter, creating a luscious glaze that clings to the corn.
Step 4: Season the Corn
Next, season the corn with salt and black pepper. These simple seasonings enhance the flavors of the dish without overpowering the sweetness of the corn and honey. Stir the corn again to evenly distribute the salt and pepper throughout the dish. At this point, the corn should be sizzling slightly in the skillet, indicating that it’s close to being done.
Step 5: Final Cooking
Continue to cook the corn for an additional 2-3 minutes. During this time, the honey will help the corn to caramelize slightly, giving it a beautiful golden color. The key here is to cook the corn just long enough to develop a bit of color and flavor without letting it burn. Keep an eye on the skillet and stir the corn as needed to prevent sticking.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once the corn is heated through and slightly caramelized, remove the skillet from the heat. For a pop of color and added freshness, sprinkle the corn with chopped fresh parsley. While the parsley is optional, it adds a nice contrast to the sweetness of the dish and makes for a visually appealing presentation. Serve the Honey Butter Skillet Corn hot, either as a side dish or as part of a larger meal.
Serving Suggestions
Honey Butter Skillet Corn is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of main courses. Here are a few ideas for how to serve this delicious dish:
With Grilled Meats
The sweetness of the corn complements the smoky flavors of grilled meats like chicken, steak, or pork chops. Serve the corn alongside your favorite grilled protein for a well-balanced meal.
As a Topping for Tacos
For a twist on traditional taco toppings, use Honey Butter Skillet Corn as a sweet and savory addition to your tacos. It pairs especially well with spicy meats like shredded beef or carnitas.
In a Salad
Add the corn to a salad for a burst of sweetness and texture. It works well with greens like arugula or spinach, and you can toss it with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing dish.
As a Side for Holiday Meals
This dish is a great addition to holiday meals, especially during Thanksgiving or Christmas. Its sweet flavor complements other traditional sides like mashed potatoes and stuffing.
Conservation and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store the Honey Butter Skillet Corn in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days. When reheating, you can either use the microwave or a skillet over medium heat. If reheating in a skillet, you may want to add a small amount of butter or oil to prevent sticking.
Freezing
While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the cooked corn if needed. Place the cooled corn in a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible before sealing. It will keep in the freezer for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw the corn in the refrigerator overnight and then warm it in a skillet.
Conclusion
Honey Butter Skillet Corn is a simple yet delicious dish that brings out the natural sweetness of corn with the added richness of honey and butter. It’s a versatile side that works well with a variety of main dishes, from grilled meats to hearty salads. With its quick preparation time and minimal ingredients, it’s a great recipe to have on hand for busy weeknights or special occasions. Whether you’re making it as a side dish for a family meal or adding it to a holiday spread, this Honey Butter Skillet Corn is sure to be a hit with everyone at the table. Enjoy the sweet and savory flavors of this delightful dish, and don’t forget to experiment with your own variations to make it even more special.