5 Must Try Jersey Corn Recipes

By
Deborah Smith, Executive Editor
-
bowl of fresh corn on the cob

Six simple and delicious ways to enjoy Jersey corn, from savory corn cakes to a vibrant summer salad and cheesy corn souffle. These fresh, easy-to-follow recipes capture New Jersey’s summer’s sweetest treat!

Jersey corn season is here, which means it’s time to take a trip to the local farmers markets so we can stock up! Jersey corn, a summer staple in New Jersey, is famous for its sweetness and tender kernels that are grown in the unique, rich, sandy soil and thrive in the warm days and cool nights. This makes them the perfect texture and flavor for a variety of different dishes like corn salads, baked goods, and more!

Fresh Jersey Corn shucked and ready to eat

Jersey Corn vs. Regular Corn

  • Locally fresh: Jersey corn is harvested fresh and sold locally, keeping its peak sweetness and crisp texture.  
  • Ideal climate: The state’s sandy soil and perfect climate create the best growing conditions for Jersey corn’s distinctively sweet flavor.  
  • Natural sugars: Warm days and cool nights in New Jersey allow Jersey corn to develop a higher natural sugar content than regular corn.  
  • Consistent quality: Unlike regular corn, which may vary in taste,Jersey corn is consistently sweet and tender.  

Versatile flavor: Its rich, buttery flavor makes it perfect for grilling, salads, soups, and a variety of savory dishes.

corn on the cob at a farmers market

How To Choose The Best Jersey Corn

Most Jersey corn can be found in season at local farmers’ markets or even at the grocery store. No matter where you buy, it use these tips to make sure you’re getting corn with the best flavor and texture!

  • Check the husks: Look for bright green husks that are tightly wrapped around the ear and slightly damp, a sign of freshness.  
  • Inspect the silk: The silk should be brown and sticky to the touch. Avoid corn with dry or blackened silk.  
  • Feel the kernels: Gently squeeze the ear through the husk to ensure the kernels feel plump and closely spaced without any gaps.  
  • Avoid damage: Choose ears that are free from insect damage, mold, or discoloration on the husk.  

Test the weight: Pick up the ear. A heavier weight often signals fully developed, juicy kernels inside.

5 Recipes Using Jersey Corn

Jersey Corn Souffle with Cheddar Cheese and Chives (Michelle Errichetti)

Jersey Corn Souffle with Cheddar Cheese and Chives (Michelle Errichetti)

Michelle bought a dozen ears of sweet Jersey white corn at the Ventnor International Farmers Market and made a Jersey Corn Souffle with Cheddar cheese and chives. It was a big hit with a Jersey tomato salad and grilled skirt steak and would make a great picnic dish with a hint of cayenne for extra flavor!

Ingredients

  • 2 slightly beaten eggs
  • 8-9 Jersey ears of corn (white), cut off the cob
  • 1 stick of butter (lightly salted), melted
  • 2 cups low fat Greek yogurt
  • 1 cup of shredded Cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 tsp. of sugar
  • 1/2 tsp. salt and pepper. cayenne optional.
  • 2 cups Bisquick
  • One bunch of chives chopped or 2 tbsps. of dried chives
  • 1/4 cup of half-and-half

Instructions

    • Combine eggs, half and half, Bisquick, Cheddar cheese, chives, corn and butter.
    • Spread into an 11 x 7-inch baking dish.
    • Bake at 350* oven for approximately 45 minutes or until a knife in the middle comes out clean.
    • About 6 to 8 servings.
    © Deborah Smith, Executive Editor

    Sweet Corn and Black Bean Salad (Kerry Brown)

    corn black bean salad in bowl on table

    Kerry created this basic recipe from wholefoods.com features fresh grilled corn with options like hot pepper flakes, cumin, and avocado for added flavor. It makes a perfect summer side dish for grilled meats or fish, and is also great as a wrap filling, nacho topping, or mixed with grains and cheese.

    Ingredients

    • 2 cups fresh or frozen and thawed corn kernels
    • 1/2 cup finely chopped red onion
    • 2 tablespoons seasoned rice vinegar
    • 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
    • 1 tablespoon lime juice
    • 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
    • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
    • 4 cups no-salt-added cooked black beans rinsed and drained
    • 1 red bell pepper cored, seeded and chopped
    • 1/3 cup cilantro leaves finely chopped

    Instructions

      • Bring a medium pot of water to a boil.
      • Add corn and cook for 1 minute, then drain well, rinse in cold water and drain again. (If using frozen corn, skip this step.)
      • Meanwhile, rinse onions in cold water to remove some of their sharp, acidic flavor; drain well and set aside.
      • In a large bowl, whisk together vinegar, olive oil, lime juice, salt and pepper to make a dressing.
      • Add beans, corn, onion and bell pepper and toss until just incorporated.
      • Cover and chill for about 2 hours.
      • Add cilantro and toss again before serving.
      © Deborah Smith, Executive Editor

      Corn Cakes (Jennifer Malme)

      While vacationing in Virginia, Jennifer enjoyed hush puppies, corn fritters, and apple fritters nearly every night. To recreate those flavors at home without a deep fryer, she made wholesome Corn Cakes using Jersey-fresh corn cooked on a non-stick griddle. She served these with hot dogs and watermelon cubes for a fun picnic at home.  They are also great reheated for breakfast, served with maple syrup. (Recipe originally featured on Down-Home South Jersey.)

      Ingredients

      • 1 cup whole wheat flour
      • 1 tsp baking powder
      • 1/2 tsp salt
      • 1/4 cup honey
      • 1 egg, beaten
      • 1/3 cup milk
      • 1 T melted butter
      • 1 1/2 cups corn kernels (from 2 ears corn or 12 oz can)

      Instructions

        • Combine flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl. 
        • Combine honey, egg, milk and butter in a separate bowl. 
        • Mix wet ingredients into dry ingredients. 
        • Stir in corn kernels. 
        • Allow batter to rest 15 to 20 minutes in the refrigerator.
        • Preheat lightly oiled griddle on medium-high heat. 
        • Cook batter by tablespoonfuls, turning over halfway through, until lightly browned on both sides.
        © Deborah Smith, Executive Editor

        Grilled Mexican Corn (Veronique Deblois)

        mexican street corn on plate

        Ingredients

        • 4 ears of fresh Jersey corn
        • Vegetable or Avocado oil spray
        • Seasonings (salt, pepper, chili powder)
        • 1/4 cup sour cream or Crema
        • 1/4 cup Mayonnaise
        • 1/2 cup Cilantro
        • 1/2 cup crumbled Queso fresco
        • 1 lime - juice and zest

        Instructions

          • Peel the husks away on your New Jersey corn cobs.
          • Spray cobs lightly with cooking spray and season with salt, pepper, and a light sprinkling of chili powder.
          • Grill on medium heat for eight minutes (rotate cobs for even grilling).
          • In a bowl, combine sour cream, mayo, chopped fresh cilantro, and crumbled Mexican Queso Fresco.
          • Coat the hot cob with the mixture and devour.
          © Deborah Smith, Executive Editor

          Summer Corn and Arugula Salad (Melissa Baratta)

          This salad is bright, colorful and summery, and the corn kernels add a sweet and crunchy pop of flavor. It’s simple and fast to make, and is great use of Jersey white corn.

          Ingredients

          • 8 ears white corn
          • 3 cups cherry tomatoes, cut in half
          • 4 cups arugula
          • 1 “long hot” or jalapeno pepper, seeded and chopped (optional)
          • 1 clove garlic, minced
          • ¼ cup red wine vinegar
          • Juice of ½ lemon
          • ⅛ cup olive oil
          • 1 tsp. salt
          • ½ tsp. pepper

          Instructions

            • First, remove corn kernels from cobs; hold each corn cob upright, and use a sharp knife to cut down each side lengthwise until all the kernels have been removed.
            • Transfer corn kernels to a bowl and add tomatoes, arugula and hot peppers.
            • In a separate small bowl, combine garlic, vinegar, lemon juice, olive oil, salt and pepper.
            • Whisk together until combined. Pour over salad, toss together and serve.
            © Deborah Smith, Executive Editor

            Storing & Freezing

            These are general instructions for how to store, freeze, and reheat cooked Jersey corn whether it was grilled, baked, or boiled!

            • Storing: Store cooled Jersey corn in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
            • Freezing: For best results, spread corn kernels in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for 1-2 hours or until solid. Transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container and keep them frozen for up to 6 months. Let the corn thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating for best results. 

            Reheating: Reheat corn in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or sauté in a pan over medium heat until warmed through.

            FAQ

            How do I grill Jersey corn without burning it?  

            Peel back the husks without removing them and remove the silk. Re-cover the ears with the husks, soak in water for 15 minutes, and grill over medium heat for 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally.

            Can I microwave corn on the cob?

            fresh corn on the cob in microwave

            Yes and it’s a great way to quickly cook corn that is basically foolproof. Do not shuck. Just place the corn on a microwave safe plate and cook for 2 minutes per ear. Let cool until it is easy to handle and peeling is a breeze. 

            Can I eat Jersey corn raw, or does it need to be cooked first?

            Jersey corn is naturally sweet and tender, making it safe to eat raw though it will have a different texture. Slice the kernels off the cob and add them to salads for a fresh, crisp flavor.

            What’s the best way to cut Jersey corn kernels off the cob without making a mess?  

            cutting corn off the cob

            Stand the cob upright in the center of a large bowl and use a sharp knife to slice down each side. The bowl will catch the kernels and prevent them from scattering.

            Where can I find Jersey corn if I’m not in New Jersey?

            Jersey corn is often available at farmers’ markets and specialty grocery stores in neighboring states during the summer. You can also check with local farm stands or order directly from New Jersey farms that offer shipping.

            More Jersey Corn Recipes