Preheat the Grill: Clean your grill grates and preheat the grill to medium-high heat, which is about 400°F (200°C). Ensuring the grill is hot before you start will help you get those iconic dark grill marks without overcooking the corn.
Prepare the Corn: Remove the husks and all the silky threads from each ear of corn. Pat them dry with a paper towel. Brush each ear generously with softened butter or olive oil, making sure to coat all sides evenly. This helps the seasoning stick and prevents the corn from sticking to the grill.
Season the Ears: Sprinkle the salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if using) over the oiled corn. Roll the ears around to ensure the seasoning is distributed well. This simple base layer of flavor enhances the natural sweetness of the kernels.
Grill to Perfection: Place the corn directly onto the hot grill grates. Close the lid and cook for about 10 to 15 minutes. Use tongs to turn the corn every 2 to 3 minutes so it browns evenly on all sides. You want the kernels to be bright yellow and charred in spots.
Final Touches: Remove the corn from the grill and place it on a platter. If desired, brush with a little extra butter while the corn is still hot. Serve immediately with fresh lime wedges on the side for a bright, acidic finish.