As the days grow long and golden across Australia, corn arrives at markets in bright, sun-kissed stacks - husks tightly wrapped, silk whispering with sweetness, kernels shining like little drops of sunshine.
Crunchy, juicy and naturally buttery, fresh corn signals the height of Summer. Whether charred on the barbeque, shaved into salads, or stirred through creamy comfort dishes, corn brings a taste of pure seasonal joy - simple, vibrant and endlessly adaptable.
Choosing the Best Corn
Great corn starts with its husk. Look for ears that feel heavy for their size, with husks that are bright green, tightly fitted and still slightly damp. The silks should be soft, golden and lightly sticky - never dry or brittle.
Gently peel back a little of the husk to check the kernels: they should be plump, glossy and arranged in neat, tightly packed rows. Avoid any ears with shrivelled kernels, gaps, or discolouration. When you press a kernel with your fingernail, it should release a milky juice - a sure sign of natural sweetness.
Storing for Freshness
Corn tastes best as close to harvest as possible, so use it within a day or two if you can. Store whole ears in their husks in the refrigerator to keep them moist and crisp. If you’ve already husked them, wrap the ears in a slightly damp cloth or place them in an airtight container to prevent drying.
For long-term storage, blanch the kernels briefly, cool them quickly, then freeze in portions - perfect for throwing into soups, fritters, and stir-fries year-round.
Preparing and Cooking
Fresh corn needs little to shine, but its versatility makes it a Summer essential. Char it on the barbeque until smoky and caramelised, slice the kernels off the cob for salads or tacos, or simmer them into chowders and creamy pastas.
The natural sugars intensify with heat, creating deep, nutty sweetness. Corn pairs beautifully with chilli, lime, garlic butter, fresh herbs and bold cheese - or keep it simple with a sprinkle of salt and a squeeze of lemon. However you use it, corn brings brightness and crunch to every dish.
Nutritional Highlights
Corn is a naturally energising whole food, rich in fibre for digestive health and packed with vitamins B and C. It’s also a source of antioxidants like lutein and zeaxanthin, which support eye health. With its satisfying sweetness and slow-release carbohydrates, corn makes a nourishing addition to salads, side dishes and snacks. Light, wholesome and naturally gluten-free, it’s one of Summer’s most generous gifts.
Here are three recipes to put fresh and in-season corn on the table this week:
Savour these vibrant prawn enchiladas, filled with juicy seafood and wrapped in warm tortillas. Sweet corn adds freshness, while crushed pistachios bring a satisfying crunch. Light, nourishing and full of bold flavour, this wholesome dish is perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or a colourful centrepiece for relaxed Summer dining.
Crisp, golden and bursting with sweet kernels, these corn fritters are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Serve them with smoky bacon for extra indulgence and a bright tomato-and-avocado salsa for freshness. Perfect for brunch, lunch or lazy weekend gatherings, they strike the ideal balance of comforting, vibrant and irresistibly moreish.
Light, bright and ready in just 30 minutes, this corn and feta frittata is endlessly versatile - ideal for meal prep, lunch, dinner or sharing. Sweet kernels and salty feta create a delicious balance, while a fresh tomato salad adds colour and zing. Simple, nourishing and guaranteed to please.
