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Fresh Grilled Corn Salad Recipe with Cotija and Lime

grilled corn salad - featured image

This vibrant summer salad features smoky grilled corn tossed with crumbly cotija cheese, zesty lime juice, fresh cilantro, and a hint of jalapeño. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for potlucks, barbecues, or as a refreshing side for any meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 ears fresh corn on the cob, husked
  • 2/3 cup cotija cheese, crumbled
  • 1/3 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1/2 cup red onion, finely diced
  • 1 small jalapeño pepper, seeded and minced (optional)
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • Juice from 2 limes
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt & black pepper, to taste
  • 1 medium avocado, diced (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your grill to medium-high (about 400°F). If using a grill pan, place it over high heat until lightly smoking (5-10 minutes).
  2. Brush each ear of corn with a little olive oil and sprinkle lightly with salt.
  3. Grill the corn, turning every 2-3 minutes, until all sides are lightly charred and kernels are tender (about 12-15 minutes).
  4. Remove corn from the grill and let cool for 5 minutes. Stand each ear upright on a cutting board and slice off kernels with a sharp knife.
  5. In a large bowl, combine corn kernels, cherry tomatoes, red onion, jalapeño, and cilantro. If using avocado, gently fold it in last.
  6. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, remaining olive oil, and black pepper. Taste and adjust salt as needed.
  7. Pour dressing over salad and toss gently to combine. Sprinkle crumbled cotija cheese over the top and toss once more.
  8. Taste and adjust lime, salt, or cilantro as desired. Serve slightly warm or at room temperature.

Notes

For best flavor, use fresh summer corn and freshly squeezed lime juice. You can substitute cotija with feta or queso fresco. Make it dairy-free by omitting cheese or using a plant-based alternative. Prep veggies and dressing ahead, but grill corn fresh for best results. If prepping ahead, keep cheese and avocado separate until serving.

Nutrition

Keywords: grilled corn salad, cotija, lime, summer side, Mexican salad, gluten-free, vegetarian, easy salad, barbecue, potluck