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Fresh Grilled Corn Salad with Cotija and Lime

fresh grilled corn salad - featured image
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A simple, bright, and smoky grilled corn salad with tangy Cotija cheese and fresh lime juice, perfect for summer BBQs and potlucks.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 ears fresh corn on the cob, husked and cleaned
  • ½ cup Cotija cheese, crumbled
  • 2 large limes, juiced
  • A small handful fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
  • ¼ cup red onion, finely diced
  • 1 small jalapeño, seeded and minced
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • Salt to taste (kosher salt recommended)
  • Black pepper to taste
  • Optional: pinch of smoked paprika or chili powder

Instructions

  1. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat (about 400°F/200°C).
  2. Husk the ears of corn and remove all silk threads. Lightly brush each ear with olive oil.
  3. Grill the corn directly on the grill, turning every 2-3 minutes for 10-12 minutes until kernels are charred with blackened spots but not burnt.
  4. Let the corn rest for 5 minutes, then carefully slice the kernels off the cob into a bowl.
  5. Add finely diced red onion, minced jalapeño, and chopped cilantro to the bowl with the corn. Toss gently.
  6. Crumble Cotija cheese by hand over the salad.
  7. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the salad, drizzle with remaining olive oil, and season with salt and black pepper. Add smoked paprika or chili powder if desired.
  8. Toss everything gently until well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  9. Serve immediately or chill for up to 24 hours, bringing to room temperature before serving.

Notes

For extra smoky flavor, use a charcoal grill. If short on time, microwave corn briefly before grilling. Add lime juice just before serving to keep salad fresh and bright. Remove jalapeño seeds for milder heat. Salad can be refrigerated up to 24 hours; bring to room temperature before serving. For dairy-free, substitute Cotija with firm tofu or dairy-free feta.

Nutrition

Keywords: grilled corn salad, cotija cheese, lime, summer BBQ, Mexican salad, easy side dish, fresh corn, cilantro, jalapeño

Find it online: https://milacook.com/fresh-grilled-corn-salad-with-cotija-and-lime-easy-recipe-for-summer-bbqs/