Print

Fresh Grilled Corn Salad with Lime and Cotija Cheese

fresh grilled corn salad - featured image
Print Recipe

A bright, smoky, and tangy grilled corn salad featuring fresh lime juice and crumbly Cotija cheese, perfect for summer gatherings and casual dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 ears fresh corn on the cob, husked and cleaned
  • Juice and zest of 1 large lime
  • A small handful cilantro, chopped (or fresh parsley as a substitute)
  • ½ cup Cotija cheese, crumbled (La Vaquita or El Mexicano brands recommended)
  • ¼ cup red onion, finely diced
  • 1 small jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons mayonnaise (full-fat or Greek yogurt as a lighter alternative)
  • 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat (about 400°F / 205°C).
  2. Husk the ears of corn and remove all silk. Brush each ear lightly with olive oil.
  3. Grill the corn directly on the grill grates, rotating every 2-3 minutes for even charring, about 10-12 minutes total until dark grill marks appear.
  4. Let the corn cool for 5 minutes, then cut the kernels off the cob using a sharp knife, standing the ear upright on a cutting board.
  5. In a large bowl, combine the grilled corn kernels, diced red onion, chopped cilantro, and minced jalapeño if using.
  6. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, lime juice, lime zest, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  7. Pour the dressing over the salad and gently mix until all ingredients are evenly coated.
  8. Sprinkle the crumbled Cotija cheese over the top and fold it in lightly.
  9. Give the salad a final stir and adjust salt or lime juice if needed.
  10. Serve immediately or chill for an hour if preferred. Pairs well with grilled meats or as a standalone light meal.

Notes

If you don’t have a grill, roast the corn in a 450°F (230°C) oven for about 15 minutes, turning once halfway through. For dairy-free options, omit the cheese or substitute with toasted pumpkin seeds. Prepare the corn a day ahead and toss with dressing and cheese just before serving for freshness.

Nutrition

Keywords: grilled corn salad, lime, Cotija cheese, summer salad, easy salad, Mexican salad, grilled corn, fresh salad

Find it online: https://goldensimmer.com/fresh-grilled-corn-salad-recipe-with-lime-and-cotija-cheese-perfect-for-summer/