These Grilled Corn Recipes Are Basically the *Golden Children* of Gut-Healthy Side Dishes

Throwing a few ears of corn on the grill and hearing them hiss and pop as they char to perfection...this is what summer eating is all about. Thankfully, it doesn't take much to seriously step up your corn game; often just adding a few key spices will do the trick.

But is corn good for you? Indeed it is, and it's bursting with gut-boosting benefits too. "The fact that corn is high in fiber means it aids in gut health," Vanessa Rissetto, MS, RD previously told Well+Good. "It's considered a prebiotic which is a compound in food that enhances the activity of good bacteria and helps probiotics do their job." Corn also has manganese, phosphorus, magnesium, folate, potassium and some B vitamins.

Rounded up here are seven gut-friendly grilled corn recipes that will transform the summer vegetable from basic to finger-licking masterpiece. Make the most of these precious last summer weeks by trying them all out.

7 grilled corn recipes packed with gut health benefits

1. Grilled corn with spicy mayo

PSA: Butter isn't the only creamy add-on that pairs well with corn. This recipe combines mayonnaise with chili powder, smoked paprika, chili powder, cumin, cilantro, and a touch of Parmesan cheese for a delicious spicy-tangy twist.

2. Grilled corn with cilantro cashew pesto

If you've never thought to pair pesto with corn, this one's a game-changer. Blending cashews in with the other ingredients makes it super creamy—and ups the protein. And the cilantro and serrano chili balance each other out perfectly, ensuring freshness and zest with every bite.

3. Grilled corn with sriracha aioli

Let's be real here, everyone loves sriracha—and aioli. Marrying the two is a no-brainer. Smoky, savory, slightly sweet... this topping has it all.

4. Parmesan garlic grilled corn

It doesn't take much Parmesan or garlic to totally transform any veggie, corn included. Mix the two starring ingredients with two tablespoons of pastured butter, and you have enough of a spread for four ears of corn.

5. Grilled corn on the cob with roasted jalapeno sauce

If you're someone who's always reaching for the hot sauce, this one's for you. Between the jalapeno, onion, garlic, and cumin, you'll be feeling the heat. Want to tone it down a little? Just add a bit more Greek yogurt to the mix.

6. Vegan grilled corn on the cob

So many of the yummiest grilled corn recipes involve butter, mayo, or cheese, which can be a bummer if you're vegan. This recipe uses tofu, nutritional yeast, almond milk, and a few extra spices for a tangy, cheesy sauce that's completely dairy-free.

7. Grilled corn with cilantro butter

This buttery herb blend has the perfect balance of heat and freshness: cilantro, paprika, garlic, chili powder, lime. You'll want to slather this on everything you eat, not just the corn.