Stir Fried Corn With Pine Nuts Recipe

There’s something about transforming fresh, sweet corn into a beautifully golden and nutty dish that feels like summer in a skillet! Let’s take this journey together and create a vibrant side dish that’s as satisfying as it is simple.

I love making dishes that are nutritious and delicious. This Stir-Fried Corn with Pine Nuts really underlines the sweetness of fresh corn.

And then we throw in the pine nuts for a crunch that is really unexpected. You could do this dish with garlic alone, but I am always a big fan of balancing flavor in a way that makes everything sing.

Add just a pinch of crushed red pepper in there, and then I like to squeeze a little lemon juice in at the end. And we get this dish that’s, for me anyway, absolutely perfect.

Corn, done in a way that’s way beyond any kind of limitation of stir-frying.

Ingredients

• Fresh Corn Kernels: Naturally sweet, these provide carbohydrates and fiber for energy.
• Pine Nuts: Rich in healthy fats, protein, and essential vitamins.
• Olive Oil: Heart-healthy fats that enhance flavor and texture.
• Garlic: Adds aromatic depth and has immunity-boosting properties.
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: Introduces a hint of heat for added complexity.
• Fresh Lemon Juice: Offers a tangy brightness, enhancing all flavors.
• Fresh Parsley: Provides a burst of freshness and essential nutrients.

Ingredient Quantities

• 2 cups fresh corn kernels (from about 4 ears of corn)
• 1/2 cup pine nuts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

How to Make this

1. Warm a big frying pan over medium heat and pour in the olive oil.

2. In a skillet, sauté the minced garlic for about 1 minute until it’s aromatic, taking caution to ensure it doesn’t scorch.

3. Place the pine nuts in the skillet and stir occasionally as they cook until they are golden brown, about 2-3 minutes.

4. Add the fresh corn kernels and cook them, stirring often, for about 5-6 minutes until the corn becomes tender and achieves a slight caramelization.

5. Stir in the crushed red pepper flakes and combine them well, cooking for one more minute.

6. Taste and add salt and pepper as desired.

7. Take the skillet off the heat and mix the fresh lemon juice into it.

8. Stir in the fresh chopped parsley.

9. If necessary, taste and adjust the seasoning. Add more salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed to suit your taste.

10. Serve the warm stir-fried corn with pine nuts as a satisfying side dish.

Equipment Needed

1. Frying pan or skillet
2. Wooden spoon or spatula
3. Measuring spoons
4. Knife
5. Cutting board
6. Citrus juicer or reamer (optional)
7. Mixing bowl (optional for holding ingredients)

FAQ

• Q: Can I use canned or frozen corn instead of fresh corn kernels?A: Yes, you may use corn that comes in cans or is frozen. Just be certain to drain the corn in the can, and thaw the corn that comes in a frozen state, before you put it to use.
• Q: What can I use in place of pine nuts if I have a nut allergy?A: You may replace the pine nuts with roasted sunflower seeds or leave them out altogether for a nut-free version.
• Q: Is there an alternative to using olive oil?A: Any cooking oil you like may be used, including vegetable oil and avocado oil.
• Q: Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?A: Serve it fresh for the best results; however, if necessary, you can prepare the mixture of corn and pine nuts a few hours in advance. Just reheat it gently before serving.
• Q: How long will leftovers keep?You can keep uneaten food in a sealed container in the fridge and expect it to last for up to 3 days.
• Q: Can I add other vegetables to this dish?A: Yes, you can add vegetables such as bell peppers and zucchini for additional flavor and nutrition.

Stir Fried Corn With Pine Nuts Recipe Substitutions and Variations

Frozen corn kernels: Use in place of fresh. Thaw and drain 2 cups to substitute for 2 cups of fresh corn kernels.
Chop 1/2 cup of almonds or cashews to use in place of pine nuts.
Olive oil: Substitute 2 tablespoons avocado oil or canola oil.
Garlic: Use 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder. This is a good substitute for garlic.
Parsley: Use 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh basil or cilantro.

Pro Tips

1. Use High-Quality Fresh Corn: For the best flavor, ensure the corn is fresh and sweet. If possible, use corn picked the same day from a local farmers’ market or store.