I like the way you shuck your corn.

There is no reason to buy this.

Or this.

Or this.

Yes, I know it's a little scary the first time, but you need to head to the produce aisle for some of this.

At super cheap prices, corn is a great side item for any summer bbq or clambake. Clambake you ask? It's an outdoor party, typically by the seashore where treats like clams, fish and corn are cooked on hot stones covered in seaweed:) Yay new words!

By shucking and cooking your corn yourself, you will save unnecessary calories and sodium while increasing your vitamin intake! (Not a bad deal!) So, how do you pick out and cook the perfect corn?

1. Purchasing: When purchasing at the grocery, the husks (outer green covering) should be bright green and fitted tightly around the ear of corn. The kernels should be in tight rows right to the tip of the ear of corn and look plump. It is perfectly acceptable (well maybe a little frowned upon) to peel back the husk to check and see if the corn looks fresh:)

2. Shucking: (or husking) should be done right before cooking. Start at the top where all of the silky white threads are popping out and pull all the way down the base. Try and get all the threads. If you need extra help with that, try a wet paper towel.

Have bowl around for discarded husks.

Twist or cut husks off at the base of the ear

Done!

3. Cooking:
      Boiling: Choose a pot large enough to hold the amount of corn you want to cook, with room for water to cover the corn. Cover pot and bring unsalted water to a boil. Add shucked corn bringing the water back to a boil. This part will go faster if you cover the pot. It will take approximately 3 to 4 minutes to bring the water back to a boil. Once water comes back to a boil, immediately remove the corn from the water.


      Grilling: This is my preference. Preheat the grill on medium temp (approx. 350) Place corn in foil either individually or in one large piece. Brush corn with olive oil (or just drop a little in there - no need to be scientific about it). Then add what you like! Salt, garlic, cheese, onion, pepper, lime or other spices! Place on grill rotating every so often. It should take about 15 minutes. You will know it's done by a slight grilled look to the corn.

Enjoy!