If you love bold flavors and easy-to-make summer treats, you absolutely have to try this Grilled Buffalo Corn with Vegan Ranch Recipe. It’s a delightful twist on traditional corn on the cob, doused in a spicy, buttery buffalo sauce and finished with a creamy, tangy vegan ranch that ties everything together perfectly. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or simply craving a vibrant and satisfying side, this dish brings together smoky, spicy, and fresh notes that’ll make your taste buds dance with every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe keeps things refreshingly simple, using a handful of ingredients that deliver maximum flavor and vibrant color. Each element plays a crucial role, from the juicy corn itself to the creamy vegan ranch that balances the heat beautifully.
- 4 ears of corn, husks removed: The star ingredient delivering natural sweetness and a satisfying crunch when grilled.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Helps achieve that perfect char on the corn and enhances its smoky flavor.
- 1/4 cup hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot): Provides the iconic buffalo heat with just the right kick.
- 2 tablespoons vegan butter, melted: Adds richness and helps bind the buffalo sauce to the corn.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses a subtle depth of savory flavor into the sauce.
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika: Lends a smoky undertone that complements the grilled corn beautifully.
- Salt to taste: Essential to balance all flavors and enhance the natural sweetness of the corn.
- Chopped fresh parsley or chives for garnish: Adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness.
- For the Vegan Ranch:
- 1/2 cup vegan mayo: Creates a creamy and tangy base without any dairy.
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened plant-based milk: Thins the ranch dressing to the perfect consistency.
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice: Brightens the ranch with a touch of acidity.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds savory depth to the ranch.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Complements the garlic and enhances flavor complexity.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried dill: Brings a fresh, herbal note to the dressing.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley: Adds earthiness and works harmoniously with the other herbs.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential to season the ranch perfectly and balance flavors.
How to Make Grilled Buffalo Corn with Vegan Ranch Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Grill and Corn
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This ensures those adorable char marks that bring out the corn’s natural sugars. While it’s heating up, brush each ear of corn lightly with olive oil, which helps create that smoky, crispy exterior instead of drying it out.
Step 2: Grill the Corn to Perfection
Place the oiled ears of corn directly on the grill grates. Turn them every few minutes so they char evenly on all sides. It takes about 10 to 12 minutes to get tender corn with attractive blackened spots, delivering an irresistible smoky flavor.
Step 3: Whisk Up the Buffalo Sauce
In a small bowl, mix together the hot sauce, melted vegan butter, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt. This warm, spicy sauce is the heart of your Grilled Buffalo Corn with Vegan Ranch Recipe and will coat the corn with that classic buffalo zing.
Step 4: Make the Vegan Ranch Dressing
While the corn grills, prepare the vegan ranch by whisking together vegan mayo, plant-based milk, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, dried dill, dried parsley, salt, and black pepper until silky smooth. Pop it into the fridge to chill until serving—this adds a refreshing contrast to the spicy corn.
Step 5: Coat and Garnish
Once the corn is perfectly grilled, brush it generously with the buffalo sauce while still hot. Then, drizzle with the cool vegan ranch dressing and sprinkle the chopped parsley or chives on top to add freshness and a beautiful color pop.
How to Serve Grilled Buffalo Corn with Vegan Ranch Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like parsley or chives are easy but effective choices to brighten this dish visually and flavor-wise. For an extra twist, consider a sprinkle of smoked paprika or a dash of lime juice to add complexity and balance the heat.
Side Dishes
This vibrant grilled corn pairs wonderfully with hearty salads, vegan burgers, or a simple bean-based dish. It’s a terrific side for any summer meal or barbecue and adds a flavor-packed burst that complements grilled proteins and plant-based mains alike.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the corn on a large platter with small bowls of additional buffalo sauce and vegan ranch for dipping. You could also slice the corn kernels off the cob after coating them in sauce and toss them into a fresh salad or grain bowl for an exciting vegan-friendly dish upgrade.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store the corn separately from the vegan ranch to keep each component fresh. Wrap the corn tightly in foil or place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days.
Freezing
Freezing grilled corn is not ideal, as it can affect texture. It’s best to enjoy this Grilled Buffalo Corn with Vegan Ranch Recipe fresh, but if you must freeze, separate the sauce from the corn and freeze in airtight containers. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat your grilled corn, warm it gently on the grill or in a skillet to revive those smoky flavors and crisp edges. Avoid microwaving if possible to maintain texture. Drizzle fresh buffalo sauce and vegan ranch when serving for the best results.
FAQs
Can I make the vegan ranch ahead of time?
Absolutely! The vegan ranch can be prepared up to 5 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. The flavors actually deepen, making it even tastier when well chilled.
What if I don’t have a grill?
No problem at all. You can boil or roast the corn as an alternative. While it won’t have that charred smoky flavor, it’s still delicious and ready for the buffalo sauce and ranch to shine.
Can I adjust the spiciness of the buffalo sauce?
Definitely. If you prefer milder heat, reduce the amount of hot sauce or use a milder version. For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or your favorite hot chili flakes.
Is the vegan ranch suitable for other dishes?
Yes! This creamy and flavorful vegan ranch works wonderfully as a dip for veggies, a salad dressing, or a sauce for vegan sandwiches and wraps.
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried in the ranch?
You can substitute fresh herbs, but you’ll want to use a larger quantity since fresh herbs are less concentrated than dried. For example, use about 1 tablespoon each of fresh dill and parsley chopped finely.
Final Thoughts
This Grilled Buffalo Corn with Vegan Ranch Recipe is a vibrant, fun, and delicious way to enjoy corn on the cob with a spicy and creamy twist. It’s a perfect crowd-pleaser that’s easy enough for weeknights yet impressive enough for special occasions. I hope you’ll give it a try and savor every flavorful bite as much as I do!
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Grilled Buffalo Corn with Vegan Ranch Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegan
Description
Grilled Buffalo Corn with Vegan Ranch is a flavorful and spicy side dish perfect for summer gatherings. Sweet corn is grilled to perfection, then brushed with a zesty buffalo sauce made from hot sauce and vegan butter. This dish is complemented by a creamy, herby vegan ranch dressing made from plant-based ingredients, offering a delicious dairy-free alternative. Easy to prepare and packed with flavor, it’s an ideal vegan recipe that pairs wonderfully with barbecues or casual meals.
Ingredients
Grilled Buffalo Corn
- 4 ears of corn, husks removed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
- 2 tablespoons vegan butter, melted
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt to taste
- Chopped fresh parsley or chives for garnish
Vegan Ranch Dressing
- 1/2 cup vegan mayo
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened plant-based milk
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried dill
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat to prepare for cooking the corn evenly and developing a nice char.
- Prepare and Grill the Corn: Brush each ear of corn with olive oil to prevent sticking. Place the corn directly on the grill grates and cook for 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure all sides are charred and tender.
- Make the Buffalo Sauce: While grilling, whisk together hot sauce, melted vegan butter, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt in a small bowl until well combined.
- Prepare the Vegan Ranch: In another bowl, mix vegan mayo, plant-based milk, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, dried dill, dried parsley, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until smooth and refrigerate until needed.
- Coat the Grilled Corn: Once the corn is cooked, brush each ear generously with the prepared buffalo sauce while it’s still hot to absorb maximum flavor.
- Serve: Drizzle the buffalo-coated corn with vegan ranch dressing and garnish with chopped fresh parsley or chives. Serve immediately for the best taste and texture.
Notes
- If a grill is unavailable, you can boil or roast the corn as alternatives.
- Adding a squeeze of lime over the corn before serving adds a refreshing brightness.
- The vegan ranch can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
