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Fresh Grilled Corn Salad with Zesty Lime Cilantro Dressing

fresh grilled corn salad - featured image

A quick and easy summer salad featuring smoky grilled corn tossed with a bright lime-cilantro dressing, cherry tomatoes, and optional avocado for a fresh, satisfying side dish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 ears fresh corn on the cob, husked
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 small red onion, finely diced
  • ½ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Juice of 2 limes (about 4 tablespoons)
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon honey (or agave syrup for vegan option)
  • ½ teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 ripe avocado, diced (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat (about 5-10 minutes).
  2. Grill the husked corn ears directly on the grill grates for 10-12 minutes, turning every 3 minutes until evenly charred with some blackened spots.
  3. Let the corn cool for a few minutes, then stand each ear upright on a cutting board and slice downward to remove kernels (about 2-3 cups).
  4. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, minced garlic, honey, chili flakes, salt, and pepper until emulsified and bright. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  5. In a large bowl, toss grilled corn kernels, halved cherry tomatoes, diced red onion, and chopped cilantro. Gently fold in diced avocado if using.
  6. Pour the lime-cilantro dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat evenly. Let sit for 5-10 minutes to meld flavors, but not so long that avocado browns.
  7. Taste and adjust salt and pepper if needed. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Notes

Use fresh lime juice for best flavor. Avoid over-mixing to prevent avocado from becoming mushy. For a creamier version, add crumbled cotija or feta cheese. Can substitute honey with agave syrup for vegan option. If no grill available, use a cast-iron skillet to char corn.

Nutrition

Keywords: grilled corn salad, lime cilantro dressing, summer salad, easy side dish, BBQ side, fresh corn salad, healthy salad