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Grilled Corn Salad

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A bright, smoky salad made with grilled corn, juicy tomatoes, and a zesty lime dressing, perfect for summer cookouts and meal prep.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 ears fresh corn, husks removed (or 4 cups corn kernels)
  • 1 red bell pepper, seeded and diced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/3 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional)
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1 avocado, diced (optional)
  • 1/2 cup cotija or feta, crumbled
  • 1 tablespoon neutral oil (for grilling the corn)
  • Fine sea salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Dressing:
  • 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice (plus zest if you like)
  • 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
  • 1 small garlic clove, minced
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Pinch smoked paprika (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 450°F/230°C). Clean and oil the grates.
  2. Brush the corn with 1 tablespoon oil and season lightly with salt and pepper.
  3. Grill the corn for 10–12 minutes, turning every 2–3 minutes, until lightly charred on all sides and tender.
  4. Transfer corn to a tray and let it cool for 5 minutes. Meanwhile, chop the bell pepper, tomatoes, red onion, jalapeño, and cilantro. Dice the avocado last (if using).
  5. Make the dressing: In a large bowl, whisk olive oil, lime juice, honey/maple, garlic, chili powder, cumin, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika (if using).
  6. Cut kernels off the cooled cobs. Add corn, bell pepper, tomatoes, onion, jalapeño, and cilantro to the bowl. Toss to coat. Gently fold in avocado and most of the cheese.
  7. Taste and adjust salt, pepper, or lime. Top with remaining cheese. Serve right away or chill 20–30 minutes to let flavors blend.

Notes

Best served fresh or chilled. Store in the fridge for 3–4 days. Keep avocado and cheese separate until serving for optimal texture.

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