It's local corn season! Time for buttered corn on the cob, corn salads, creamed corn and more. Here's all you need to know about the delicious summer vegetable. 

Fast Facts

• While the whole corn is considered a vegetable, the individual kernels are considered grains
• Corn contains a fair amount of fibre and protein 
• They are a good source of antioxidant carotenoids, such as lutein and zeaxanthin, which may promote eye health

Picking the Right Corn

Although the easiest way to check if corn is good is by peeling back the husk and taking a peek -- it's not considered proper corn etiquette as doing so shortens the shelf life and causes the corn to get shriveled and dried out. Here's what to look for instead: 

• bright green husk that's wrapped tightly around the corn -- if it feels a little damp, that's a plus!
• avoid corn with small holes on the outside 
• gently squeeze the corn, it should feel firm and individual kernels should feel plump 
• look for light brown or golden tassles (the fluffy puff at the top) which should feel slightly sticky to touch 

Keep it Fresh

If you plan on cooking it within the next few hours, it's fine to leave it at room temperature. If you don't plan on using it for another day or so, put it in your refrigerator in the crisper drawer. Keep the husks on and leave it in a plastic bag. 

Cooking Corn 

The easiest way to eat corn is simply boiling it in salted water for 5 minutes, take it out then pat on some butter and season with salt & pepper. 

At Fresh St. Market, we love finding new and bold recipes. There are so many ways to enjoy corn, here's a recipe for a Mexican inspired roasted corn salad