Calories in Corn on the Cob with Butter: A Complete Nutrition Guide

The Complete Calorie Breakdown of Corn on the Cob with Butter

Nothing beats the sweet taste of corn on the cob slathered in butter during the summer months. But you may wonder just how many calories are actually in this classic warm weather treat when taking the butter into account.

Calories in Plain Corn on the Cob

First, let’s break down the calories for plain corn on the cob without any added butter. A medium ear of corn with no husk or silk contains:

• 77 calories
• 0 grams of fat
• 15 grams of carbs
• 2 grams of protein
• 2 grams of fiber

This provides a good baseline for the vegetable itself before factoring in any additions like butter, salt, or other seasonings.

Nutritional Benefits

Plain corn offers an array of important vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants including:

• Vitamin C
• Folate
• Magnesium
• Phosphorus
• Thiamin
• Lutein and zeaxanthin

Its fiber content also aids digestion. So corn provides meaningful nutrition on its own.

Calories in Butter

Now let’s look at the calorie count for butter, the classic topping for corn on the cob. One tablespoon of regular salted butter contains:

• 102 calories
• 11 grams of fat
• 0 grams of carbs
• 0 grams of protein

So butter packs a hefty caloric punch, mostly from fat, despite its small serving size. This adds up quickly when spread over an ear of corn.

Calories in Corn on the Cob with Butter

Using the baseline nutrition facts above, we can estimate total calories for corn on the cob with butter based on the amount used:

• 1 tablespoon butter: 179 calories
• 2 tablespoons butter: 281 calories
• 3 tablespoons butter: 383 calories
• 4 tablespoons butter: 485 calories

As you can see, the calories jump significantly once slathering the corn in butter. A more conservative 1-2 tablespoons will keep the total calorie count under 200-300 calories for the entire ear of corn.

Ways to Lighten It Up

If you want to indulge in corn on the cob with butter without going overboard on calories, here are some tips:

• Use a light butter spread instead of regular. This saves about 50 calories per tablespoon.
• Opt for a butter spray rather than spreading it. You'll use way less.
• Dip the corn in a small bowl of melted butter instead of directly coating the cob.
• Brush on olive oil instead and sprinkle salt and pepper.
• Rub with a wedge of lime for flavor without the calories.

With some simple substitutions and smart portioning, you can still enjoy buttered corn on the cob without going overboard on calories!

A Guide to Corn: Benefits, Nutrition, and Uses

Beyond just eating it off the cob, corn can be an extremely versatile ingredient. Read on to learn all about corn's benefits, nutritional profile, and creative ways to use it.

Types of Corn

There are many different varieties of corn. Some of the most popular include:

• Sweet corn - consumed fresh while kernels are still tender and milky.
• Dent or field corn - typically used for processed foods or animal feed.
• Flour corn - soft starchiness allows grinding into corn flour.
• Popcorn - kernels "pop" when heated due to internal moisture.

Nutritional Benefits

Corn provides a range of potential health benefits. It contains:

• Fiber - promotes good digestion.
• Vitamin C - supports immunity.
• Lutein and zeaxanthin - protects eye health.
• Folate - crucial for cell function.
• Magnesium - regulates blood pressure.

Corn is naturally fat-free, sodium-free, and cholesterol-free. It's also low-calorie, with one medium ear containing around 100 calories.

Downsides

The biggest drawback of corn is that it has a high glycemic index, meaning it raises blood sugar rapidly. This makes portion control important, especially for those with diabetes.

Corn is also lacking in some nutrients, like protein, calcium, and iron. Enjoy it as part of an overall balanced diet.

Buying and Storing Corn

When buying fresh corn, look for:

• Bright green husks
• Silks not dried out
• Plump, unbroken kernels
• Milky liquid when pierced

Refrigerate fresh corn for 2-3 days. To freeze, blanch kernels first. Corn can also be canned or dried for extended storage.

Ways to Eat Corn

From the cob to the can, enjoy corn in these tasty ways:

• Grilled with butter and seasoning
• Added to salads, salsa, or slaws
• Baked into breads and muffins
• In chowders or bisques
• Fritters and pan-fried cakes

Sweet corn balances spicy flavors well in dishes like tacos, chili, and BBQ. Get creative with this versatile summer staple!

Selecting the Best Corn on the Cob

Choosing the perfect ears is key to corn on the cob with that signature sweetness and crunch. Use these tips for picking prime corn at its peak.

Look for Plump, Green Husks

Pull back the husk slightly to peek at the kernels. Plump, rounded kernels evenly spaced in rows from top to bottom are best.

Check the Silk Ends

Fresh, supple light brown silks indicate optimal freshness. Dry, dark silks mean the corn is old or drying out.

Examine the Husk

The husk should fit snugly around the ear. Avoid corn with husks that are too tight or loose, which can impact flavor.

Feel the Weight

Choose ears that feel substantial and heavy for their size. Light ears lack the juicy kernels that provide the best texture.

Buy Similar Sized Ears

Uniform ears will cook evenly. Mismatched sizes can lead to some underdone while others get overdone.

Press a Kernel

Kernels should burst with milky juice when pressed, not be dry or tough. This indicates peak sweetness.

Consider Growing Conditions

Locally grown corn sold soon after harvest will offer the sweetest flavor and crispness.

Plan to Cook Promptly

Corn loses sweetness quickly after picking, so cook as soon as possible. Refrigerate if eating within 1-2

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.