Name: Grilled Corn Salad
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 4 ears fresh sweet corn (do not shuck); 1/2 cup chopped red onion; 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro; 1 cup chopped tomatoes; 1 jalapeno pepper (seeds removed and diced); 2 avocados (seeds removed and chopped); 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice; Salt and pepper (to taste)

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When I think of summer gatherings, the first dish that comes to mind is Grilled Corn Salad. There’s something about the sweet crunch of freshly grilled corn mixed with vibrant vegetables that brings everyone together. I remember hosting friends for a backyard barbecue last summer, and this salad was the star of the show. We laughed, shared stories, and savored each bite of this colorful creation. As the sun set and the fireflies began to twinkle, this dish was a refreshing reminder of how simple ingredients can bring joy and flavor to our lives.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
20 mins

Prep Time:
0 mins

Cook Time:
20 mins

Difficulty:
Easy

Calories:
210 kcal

Protein:
4 g

Diet:
Keto, Paleo, Whole30

Fat:
9 g

Tools Used:
Chef’s Knife, Cutting Board, Wooden Spoon

What We Adore About This Grilled Corn Salad

Fresh Ingredients Make All the Difference

One of the main reasons I adore Grilled Corn Salad is the freshness of the ingredients. Using sweet, in-season corn elevates the dish to new heights. There’s nothing quite like the taste of corn freshly picked and grilled, bursting with natural sweetness and flavor. Each bite is a reminder of summer’s bounty.

A Perfect Balance of Textures

This salad isn’t just about flavor; it’s also a delightful mix of textures. The crunchy corn pairs beautifully with creamy avocado and juicy tomatoes. The sharpness of red onion adds a perfect bite, making every mouthful a satisfying experience. It’s a salad that feels hearty yet refreshing.

Great for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a picnic, a potluck, or just a simple family dinner, Grilled Corn Salad fits right in. It’s excellent as a side dish or as a light main course on its own. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to whip up, making it a go-to choice for any gathering.

Versatile and Adaptable

One of the best things about this salad is its versatility. You can easily swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand. Want to add some black beans for extra protein? Go for it! Feel like tossing in a handful of greens? That works too. The possibilities are endless with Grilled Corn Salad.

Seasonal Delight

This dish truly shines in the summer months when corn is at its best. It’s a celebration of the season and a way to enjoy the natural flavors of summer produce. Each time I make it, I’m reminded of sunny days and warm evenings spent with loved ones.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Grilled Corn Salad

The ingredients for Grilled Corn Salad are simple yet vibrant, coming together to create a dish that’s both colorful and flavorful. The star of the show is undoubtedly the sweet corn, which brings a delightful sweetness to the salad. Coupled with fresh herbs and vegetables, each ingredient plays a crucial role in crafting this delicious dish.

4 ears fresh sweet corn (do not shuck)
1/2 cup chopped red onion
1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
1 cup chopped tomatoes
1 jalapeno pepper (seeds removed and diced)
2 avocados (seeds removed and chopped)
3 tablespoons fresh lime juice
Salt and pepper to taste

Making This Grilled Corn Salad

Creating Grilled Corn Salad is a delightful experience that combines fresh flavors with a little bit of grilling magic. The process is straightforward and rewarding, resulting in a dish that will impress your family and friends.

Begin by preparing the corn. Pull back the husks on the corn and remove the silk. This step is essential as it allows the corn to soak properly. Then, pull the husks back into place and soak the corn in a large bowl of water for 2 hours. This soaking will ensure juicy, flavorful corn once grilled. After soaking, drain the corn on paper towels.
While the corn is soaking, heat your grill to medium. Grilling the corn is what gives it that smoky flavor and beautiful char. Once heated, place the ears of corn directly on the grill. Grill for about 20 minutes, making sure to turn the corn occasionally to achieve an even cook. Look for the corn to develop a slight char and a golden hue.
After grilling, let the corn cool to room temperature. It’s important to let it cool before you start cutting the kernels off, as hot corn can be tricky to handle.
Next, using a sharp knife, carefully cut the corn kernels off the cob. Stand the ear of corn upright in a large bowl and slice downward, letting the kernels fall into the bowl. You’ll want to gather about 3 to 4 cups of corn kernels.
Now, it’s time to mix in the other ingredients! Add the chopped red onion, fresh cilantro, chopped tomatoes, diced jalapeno, and chopped avocado to the bowl with the corn. Each ingredient adds a unique flavor and texture, making the salad vibrant and exciting.
To dress the salad, drizzle the fresh lime juice over the mixture. The lime juice adds brightness and helps to meld the flavors together.
Gently stir the ingredients until they are well combined. Be careful when mixing; you want to maintain the integrity of the avocado and not turn it into mush.
Season the salad with salt and pepper to taste. This step is crucial as it enhances all the other flavors. Adjust the seasoning based on your preference.
Finally, serve the salad at room temperature or chilled. I love serving it in a large bowl, letting everyone scoop out what they’d like. It’s a dish that invites sharing and enjoying together!

Things Worth Knowing

Choose Fresh Corn: Always go for fresh, in-season corn for the best flavor. It makes a significant difference in taste.
Grilling Tips: Don’t forget to turn the corn occasionally while grilling to ensure even cooking and avoid burning.
Cooling Completely: Allow the corn to cool to room temperature before cutting the kernels to prevent burns and make handling easier.
Seasoning Balance: Taste and adjust your seasoning after mixing all ingredients; this will enhance the overall flavor of the salad.

Recipe Variations about Grilled Corn Salad

There are so many ways to enjoy Grilled Corn Salad. Here are some ideas to inspire your next creation:

Add Protein: Consider mixing in some black beans or grilled chicken for added protein and heartiness.
Cheese Lovers: If you enjoy cheese, try crumbling some feta or cotija cheese on top for a salty finish.
Spice it Up: For those who like heat, leave the seeds in the jalapeno or add sliced serrano peppers for an extra kick.
Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs. Basil, parsley, or even mint could add an unexpected twist.
Citrus Twist: Besides lime, try adding a splash of orange juice for a sweeter, citrusy flavor profile.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The flavors continue to develop!
Freezing: Avoid freezing this salad as the avocado will not maintain its texture once thawed.

Pairing Suggestions for Grilled Corn Salad

Serving Grilled Corn Salad opens up a world of delightful pairings. Here are some of my favorite suggestions:

Grilled Meats: This salad is a perfect side for grilled chicken, steak, or fish, balancing the smoky flavors beautifully.
Picnic Perfect: Ideal for summer picnics and barbecues, it’s easy to transport and always a crowd-pleaser.
Light Lunch: Serve it as a light lunch option, perhaps with some crusty bread or lettuce wraps for a refreshing meal.
Seasonal Feasts: Great for holiday gatherings or family reunions where fresh, vibrant dishes are a must.
Storage Tips: Leftover salad can be kept in the refrigerator for a couple of days, making it a great make-ahead option.

FAQ

While fresh corn yields the best flavor, you can use frozen corn in a pinch. Just ensure to thaw and drain it thoroughly before using it in the salad. This will help maintain the texture and flavor.

You can store leftover Grilled Corn Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. However, keep in mind that the avocado might brown, so it’s best to enjoy it fresh!

If you want to make this salad heartier, consider adding cooked quinoa, black beans, or even some grilled chicken. These additions will not only boost the protein but also add new flavors!

Grilled Corn Salad is great for meal prep! You can prepare the ingredients ahead of time and mix them just before serving to keep everything fresh. Store the components separately to maintain the best texture.

Conclusion

In summary, Grilled Corn Salad is a bright and refreshing dish that embodies the essence of summer. Its combination of fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors makes it a standout at any gathering. I encourage you to give it a try—you won’t be disappointed! With its versatility and ease of preparation, it’s perfect for your next barbecue or picnic.