Finally, fresh corn on the cob is everywhere right now! Instead of boiling (which heats up the kitchen and depletes nutrients), I use a combo steam-microwave method, which is the easiest and lowest-energy way I know to cook fresh corn.

1. Remove only the toughest outer leaves of each corn husk.

2. Cutting right through the remaining leaves, cut off the top and bottom of each cob, including the base, leaving flat edges on both ends (below).

3. Place cobs side by side (with a little space between) in the microwave and cook for about 2 minutes per cob (up to 3 cobs). Note that microwaves and even corn cobs differ, so the time may vary; you'll have to experiment a bit.

4. When done, remove the corn and let sit for a few minutes until cool enough to handle; then peel off the husks and silk, which will come off beautifully easily in big sheets (see photo, left).

5. Eat! You can also cut off the corn kernels to use in your favorite summer recipe, such as Corn and Basil Salad or Summer Corn Soup with Quinoa.