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Fresh Grilled Corn Salad Recipe with Easy Zesty Lime Cilantro Dressing

fresh grilled corn salad - featured image

A fresh grilled corn salad featuring smoky sweetness, crunchy veggies, and a zesty lime cilantro dressing. Perfect for summer gatherings and quick meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 ears fresh corn on the cob, husked
  • 1 medium red bell pepper, diced
  • 1/2 small red onion, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Juice of 2 limes (about 3 tablespoons)
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon honey
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 jalapeño, finely diced (optional)
  • 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)
  • 1 ripe avocado, diced (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat (about 400°F / 200°C). Husk the corn, removing all silk strands. Brush each ear lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking.
  2. Place corn on the grill, turning every 2–3 minutes to get even char marks all around. Grill for about 10–12 minutes until kernels are tender and slightly blackened.
  3. Let the corn cool slightly, then use a sharp knife to slice the kernels off the cob, keeping them in chunks.
  4. While the corn grills, dice the red bell pepper, finely chop the red onion and cilantro, and if using, halve the cherry tomatoes and dice the jalapeño and avocado.
  5. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, honey, ground cumin, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning.
  6. In a large mixing bowl, combine grilled corn kernels, diced bell pepper, red onion, cilantro, and any optional ingredients. Pour the dressing over and toss gently but thoroughly.
  7. Taste again for seasoning and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to let flavors meld, or serve immediately.

Notes

Hold the ear vertically in a bundt pan or large bowl when slicing kernels to catch them easily. Chilling the salad for at least 15 minutes enhances flavor melding. Use fresh lime juice for best taste. Adjust seasoning to taste. Add avocado or cheese just before serving to keep fresh.

Nutrition

Keywords: grilled corn salad, lime cilantro dressing, summer salad, easy side dish, fresh corn salad, healthy salad, gluten-free, vegetarian