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microwave corn on the cob 1

Microwave Corn on the Cob: The Ultimate Time-Saving Kitchen Hack

Did you know that Americans consume over 42 pounds of corn per person annually, yet spend an average of 25 minutes preparing it using traditional boiling methods? This microwave corn on the cob recipe revolutionizes how busy home cooks enjoy this summer staple, cutting preparation time by 80% without losing any flavor or nutritional value.
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Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Corn, Microwave Corn, Corn on the Cob, Quick Side Dish, No-Shuck Corn
Prep Time: 2 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Resting Time: 2 minutes
Total Time: 7 minutes
Servings: 2 ears
Calories: 90kcal
Cost: low

Equipment

  • Microwave
  • Microwave-safe plate
  • Paper towels

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 2-4 ears fresh corn on the cob husks intact
  • 2-4 tablespoons butter optional, can substitute with olive oil or plant-based butter
  • salt and pepper to taste

Optional Seasonings

  • garlic powder optional
  • paprika optional
  • chili powder optional
  • fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley, optional

For Cooking

  • 1/4 cup water if using the plate method

Instructions

  • Leave the husks intact. Simply trim any excess silk that might be sticking out from the top, and remove any damaged outer leaves.
  • Lightly rinse the corn under cool water, allowing the husks to absorb some moisture. This creates steam inside the husk during cooking.
  • Place the damp ears of corn directly on the microwave turntable, or on a microwave-safe plate with 1/4 cup of water for extra moisture. Arrange in a spoke pattern if microwaving multiple ears.
  • Microwave on high power for 3-5 minutes for 1-2 ears. For each additional ear, add approximately 2 minutes to the cooking time.
  • Allow the corn to rest for 2 minutes before handling—the ears will be extremely hot and continue cooking slightly during this time.
  • Using oven mitts or a kitchen towel, grip the corn at the stem end and shake while pulling downward. The corn should slide out easily, leaving most of the silk behind with the husk.
  • Serve with butter or your favorite toppings and enjoy immediately.

Notes

A 1200-watt microwave will require less time than an 800-watt model, so adjust cooking time accordingly.
For best results, use corn purchased within 1-2 days.
The husks actually help steam the corn to perfection, locking in moisture and flavor that's often lost with traditional boiling methods.

Nutrition

Calories: 90kcal | Carbohydrates: 21g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 1g | Sodium: 15mg | Potassium: 270mg | Fiber: 2.4g | Sugar: 5g | Vitamin C: 6.1mg
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