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Fresh Grilled Corn Salad Recipe with Easy Zesty Lime Cilantro Dressing

fresh grilled corn salad - featured image

A fresh and flavorful grilled corn salad featuring a zesty lime cilantro dressing, perfect for summer meals and gatherings. The smoky charred corn combined with bright lime and fresh cilantro creates a deliciously balanced dish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 ears fresh corn on the cob, husked and cleaned
  • 1 medium red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 small red onion, finely chopped
  • ½ cup fresh cilantro leaves, roughly chopped
  • Juice of 2 fresh limes (about 4 tablespoons)
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil (preferably mild extra virgin)
  • 1 teaspoon honey or agave syrup (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 small jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional)
  • 1 clove garlic, minced

Instructions

  1. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat (around 400°F / 200°C), about 10 minutes.
  2. Husk the ears of corn and remove the silk. Lightly brush each ear with olive oil and sprinkle a pinch of salt.
  3. Grill the corn directly on the grill grates, turning every 2-3 minutes, until kernels develop a nice char and are tender, about 10-12 minutes total.
  4. Let the corn cool for 5 minutes, then slice the kernels off the cob into a large mixing bowl.
  5. Dice the red bell pepper, halve the cherry tomatoes, finely chop the red onion, and mince the jalapeño and garlic if using. Add all to the bowl with the corn.
  6. In a smaller bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, honey (if using), minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Add chopped cilantro last and gently stir.
  7. Pour the dressing over the corn and veggie mix. Gently toss to coat all ingredients evenly. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  8. Chill the salad for 15-20 minutes before serving to let flavors marry and dressing soak in.

Notes

If you don’t have a grill, use a broiler but watch the corn closely to avoid burning. Add smoked paprika for extra smoky depth if desired. Add cilantro last to keep it fresh and bright. Chill salad before serving for best flavor. To keep salad from turning watery, drain excess liquid from tomatoes. Dressing can be made up to 2 days ahead and refrigerated.

Nutrition

Keywords: grilled corn salad, lime cilantro dressing, summer salad, easy salad recipe, gluten-free, vegan, fresh corn recipe