Grilling season brings an irresistible aroma of charred goodness, igniting memories of sun-soaked gatherings and delicious bites. This Grilled Corn Salad is a vibrant, flavor-packed side dish that takes about 20 minutes to make and is perfect for summer barbecues. The combination of grilled corn and zesty chili-lime seasoning makes this dish a standout.
This recipe is ideal for anyone looking to elevate their summer cookouts or add a fresh, colorful dish to their meals. It’s versatile enough to be served as a side at dinner parties or as a main dish at a casual lunch. Plus, you can prepare it ahead of time; just store it in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- The grilling process enhances the sweetness of the corn and adds smoky flavor.
- The chili-lime seasoning creates a perfect spicy-sour balance, making each bite refreshing.
- Cotija cheese adds a creamy, salty touch that elevates the entire dish.
- This salad comes together quickly, making it a perfect last-minute addition to any meal.
What You’ll Need
Gather the following ingredients to create this delightful salad:
For the Salad
- 4 ears of corn, grilled
- 2 tablespoons chili-lime seasoning
- 2 scallions, chopped
- 1/2 cup cotija cheese, crumbled
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cilantro for garnish
For the Dressing
- Juice of 1 lime
Use fresh lime juice for the best flavor.
Substitutions & Swaps
- Grilled corn can be replaced with canned corn.
- Cotija cheese can be substituted with feta cheese.
- Use green onions if scallions are unavailable.
- Chili-lime seasoning can be homemade using chili powder and lime zest.
How to Make It
Follow these steps to create a delicious Grilled Corn Salad.
Grill
Grill the corn until charred and tender, about 10-12 minutes. Remove from grill and let cool.
Cut
Once cool, cut the corn kernels off the cob and place in a large bowl.
Mix
Add the chili-lime seasoning, chopped scallions, and cotija cheese to the corn.
Squeeze and Season
Squeeze lime juice over the mixture and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Toss
Toss gently to combine.
Garnish and Serve
Garnish with cilantro and serve immediately.
How to Store It
Fridge: up to 3 days in an airtight container.
Freezer: no, may become soggy upon thawing.
Reheat: not recommended; serve cold.
Tips for Best Results
- Ensure the corn is grilled until fully charred for the best flavor.
- Toss the salad just before serving to keep it fresh and crisp.
- Experiment with additional veggies like bell peppers for extra crunch.
- Adjust the chili-lime seasoning to your spice preference.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve alongside grilled meats for a hearty summer meal.
- Pair with tacos for a festive taco night.
- Enjoy as a light lunch, served with tortilla chips.
