Description
A vibrant and flavorful Grilled Corn Salad featuring charred fresh corn, crisp red bell pepper, red onion, cilantro, and a zesty lime dressing, finished with crumbled feta or cotija cheese. Perfect as a light summer side dish with Mexican or American cuisine influences.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad Ingredients
- 4 ears of fresh corn, husked
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 small red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional)
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese or cotija cheese
Dressing
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat Grill: Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat to prepare for grilling the corn.
- Brush and Grill Corn: Brush the corn with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and place it on the grill. Grill for 10 to 12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the kernels develop a slight char indicating caramelization and smoky flavor.
- Cool and Cut Corn Kernels: Remove the grilled corn from the grill and allow it to cool slightly for easier handling. Use a sharp knife to carefully cut the kernels off each cob into a large mixing bowl.
- Combine Salad Ingredients: Add the diced red bell pepper, finely chopped red onion, chopped cilantro, and minced jalapeño (if using) to the bowl with the corn kernels.
- Prepare Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil, fresh lime juice, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Toss Salad: Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss thoroughly to coat everything evenly, blending the flavors.
- Finish and Serve: Sprinkle the salad with crumbled feta or cotija cheese on top just before serving to add a creamy, salty contrast to the fresh vegetables.
Notes
- For enhanced smoky flavor, char the red bell pepper on the grill alongside the corn before dicing.
- This salad can be prepared a few hours in advance and refrigerated; toss gently again before serving to redistribute the dressing.
- Serve as a side dish with grilled meats, tacos, or enjoy as a light, refreshing summer salad.
