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Fresh Grilled Corn Salad with Cotija Easy Zesty Lime Recipe

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A bright and refreshing grilled corn salad featuring smoky charred corn, salty Cotija cheese, and a zesty lime dressing. Perfect for summer barbecues, picnics, or light meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 large ears fresh corn on the cob, husked
  • 1 cup Cotija cheese, crumbled
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
  • Juice of 2 limes (about 3 tablespoons)
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/4 teaspoon chili powder (optional)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat (about 400°F / 200°C).
  2. Husk the ears of corn and brush them lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking.
  3. Place the corn on the grill, turning every 2-3 minutes to get even char marks all around, about 10-12 minutes total, until golden brown spots with some blackened crispiness appear. Remove and let cool slightly.
  4. Stand each ear on its flat end and carefully slice downward with a sharp knife to remove the kernels.
  5. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, ground cumin, chili powder (if using), salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  6. In a medium bowl, combine the grilled corn kernels, diced red onion, chopped cilantro, and crumbled Cotija cheese.
  7. Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss until everything is evenly coated.
  8. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt or lime juice if needed.
  9. Serve fresh or chilled up to 4 hours. Best served as a side dish with grilled meats or sandwiches.

Notes

If you don’t have a grill, you can broil the corn on a baking sheet under high heat, turning often until charred. For a dairy-free version, substitute Cotija cheese with toasted pepitas or vegan cheese. Grilling corn with husks on (soaked in water) yields a milder char and tender kernels. Make ahead by grilling corn a day before and storing kernels in the fridge; toss with dressing and cheese before serving.

Nutrition

Keywords: grilled corn salad, cotija cheese, lime dressing, summer salad, easy side dish, barbecue salad, fresh corn, zesty lime

Find it online: https://juliamadeit.com/fresh-grilled-corn-salad-with-cotija-easy-zesty-lime-recipe/