Colorful and Healthy: Why Confetti Corn is Your Go-To Summer Side

As summer winds down and fresh produce fills the local markets, there's something undeniably joyful about the vibrant colors and flavors of the season. Confetti Corn, a delightful medley of sautéed sweet corn, bell peppers, and fresh basil, is a perfect dish that captures the essence of summer in every bite. This easy side dish not only complements various meals but also lets busy moms create something nutritious quickly.

Fresh Ingredients Make the Difference

One of the highlights of Confetti Corn is its reliance on fresh ingredients, especially if you source corn directly from local farmers' markets in Massachusetts. Fresh corn is sweeter and more vibrant, making it essential for this recipe. As you gather your ingredients, opt for a rainbow of bell peppers: red, yellow, and green. This not only boosts the nutrition but also adds visual excitement to your dish.

Quick Preparation for Busy Lives

For busy moms juggling numerous responsibilities, meal prep can often feel overwhelming. This is where Confetti Corn shines—it's quick and easy to prepare, taking about just 15 minutes from start to finish.

1. Start by cutting kernels off approximately six ears of corn, ensuring they are fresh and sweet.

2. Dice the bell peppers and red onion into small pieces to match the size of the corn kernels. This technique guarantees even cooking.

3. Sauté the onions and bell peppers in a mix of olive oil and butter to create a rich, savory base.

4. Once the veggies are tender, toss in the corn and season it with salt and freshly ground black pepper.

5. The final touch? Stir in fresh basil right before serving for an aromatic kick that beautifully complements the corn and peppers!

Summer Gatherings Made Easy

What makes Confetti Corn particularly appealing is its versatility. Whether you’re serving it at a summer barbecue or a family dinner, it pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or as a stand-alone summer salad. You can also prepare it ahead of time and serve it at room temperature, making it a great option for potlucks and outdoor picnics.

Engaging Kids in the Kitchen

Cooking can be a fun family activity, and Confetti Corn provides an excellent opportunity to involve your children. Let them help wash the vegetables, measure the ingredients, or even sauté the veggies with supervision. Not only will this foster their interest in healthy cooking, but it can also create lasting family traditions centered around food.

Storing and Enjoying Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftovers, they can be easily stored in an airtight container in your refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will continue to meld together, making the dish taste even better the next day. Simply reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave for a quick and healthy lunch or side option!

Why You Should Give Confetti Corn a Try

Not only is Confetti Corn bursting with flavor, but it also offers numerous health benefits. Bell peppers are loaded with vitamin C and antioxidants, while corn provides fiber and essential nutrients. This dish can easily help you meet daily vegetable requirements, all while being a treat for your taste buds!

Don't miss an opportunity to bring this delectable dish to your table—it's not just food; it’s an experience. Perfect for summer cookouts, casual family dinners, or simply enjoying the bounty of the harvest, Confetti Corn is a recipe to cherish.

So, grab your ingredients, gather the family, and make some memories in the kitchen with this delightful dish!

Massachusetts Confetti Corn: A Local Summer Delight

Celebrate the season with this vibrant dish featuring sweet Mirai corn, artisanal sea salt, and fresh herbs from Bay State farms.

Why This Recipe Shines

This Confetti Corn recipe celebrates Massachusetts’ agricultural bounty, incorporating:

• Mirai Corn: Renowned for its extreme sweetness, grown at Breezy Gardens in Western MA.

• Cape Ann Sea Salt: Solar-dried salt harvested from Rockport’s Atlantic waters.

• High Lawn Farm Butter: Rich, golden butter from Jersey cows in the Berkshires.

• Local Herbs: Basil or cilantro from East Boston Farmers Market.

Ingredients (Serves 6)

Produce

• 4 cups Mirai corn kernels (6–7 ears; substitute with fresh local sweet corn)

• 1 red bell pepper, diced (from Four Town Farm, Seekonk)

• 1 yellow bell pepper, diced (Copley Square Farmers Market)

• 1 small red onion, diced

• ¼ cup fresh basil or cilantro, chopped (East Boston Farmers Market)

Pantry

• 2 tbsp High Lawn Farm butter (or Cabot Creamery butter)

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tsp Cape Ann Sea Salt (or Martha’s Vineyard Sea Salt)

• ½ tsp black pepper

Optional Add-Ins

• ½ cup cooked lobster meat (Cape Ann Fresh Catch)

• ⅓ cup crumbled Cabot cheddar

Instructions

1. Shuck & Cut Corn: Involve kids in shucking ears. Slice kernels into a bowl.

2. Sauté Veggies: Heat butter + oil in a skillet. Sauté onion and peppers over medium heat for 3–4 minutes until soft.

3. Add Corn: Stir in corn kernels. Cook 5–7 minutes until tender but crisp.

4. Season: Toss with sea salt, pepper, and fresh herbs.

5. Optional Boost: Fold in lobster or sprinkle cheddar before serving.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair With: Grilled Marinated Flank Steak (from Stillman’s Farm, Lunenburg) or Cape Cod Lobster Rolls.

• Local Sides: Boston Baked Beans or a slice of Cornbread made with Bartlett’s Farm cornmeal.

Why It’s a Family Favorite

• Quick & Nutritious: Ready in 15 minutes; packed with vitamins C (bell peppers) and fiber (corn).

• Farm-to-Table Fun: Visit Connors Farm (Danvers) to pick corn together, or grab ingredients at Haymarket.

• Make-Ahead Tip: Prep veggies the night before; store in airtight containers.