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Grilled Corn Salad with Cotija Cheese

Grilled Corn Salad with Cotija Cheese
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A fresh and vibrant Grilled Corn Salad with Cotija Cheese combining smoky grilled corn kernels, tangy Cotija cheese, crisp vegetables, and a zesty lime dressing. Perfect as a side dish, snack, or light meal, this colorful and easy-to-make salad brings bold flavors and a delightful texture balance to any summer gathering.

Ingredients

Scale

Salad Ingredients

  • 4 ears Fresh Corn on the Cob
  • ½ cup Cilantro, finely chopped
  • ½ cup Cotija Cheese, crumbled
  • ½ cup Red Onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes, halved
  • 1 Jalapeño, finely diced (optional)

Dressing & Seasoning

  • 2 tablespoons Lime Juice, freshly squeezed
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black Pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Grill the Corn: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Husk the corn and lightly brush the cobs with olive oil. Grill them for about 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally until the kernels are tender and charred in spots. Once done, let them cool slightly.
  2. Prepare the Vegetables: While the corn cools, thinly slice the red onion, halve the cherry tomatoes, chop the cilantro finely, and if you like a bit of spice, finely dice the jalapeño. These fresh ingredients provide a crunchy and flavorful contrast to the sweet corn.
  3. Cut the Kernels Off the Cob: Using a sharp knife, carefully slice the grilled corn kernels off the cob into a large mixing bowl. This step transforms the main ingredient into bite-sized pieces perfect for salad.
  4. Assemble the Salad: Add the prepared red onion, cherry tomatoes, cilantro, and jalapeño to the bowl with the corn. Drizzle with fresh lime juice and olive oil, then gently toss to combine all the elements evenly.
  5. Add Cotija Cheese and Season: Sprinkle generous crumbles of Cotija cheese on top, then season the salad with salt and pepper to taste. Give the salad one last gentle mix, ensuring the cheese stays somewhat chunky to add texture.

Notes

  • Char Is Key: Ensure to get nice grill marks on the corn for rich smoky flavor.
  • Fresh Lime Juice: Use fresh lime juice instead of bottled for bright and vibrant acidity.
  • Chill Before Serving: Let the salad rest in the fridge for 15-20 minutes to let flavors meld beautifully.
  • Balance Textures: Add crunchy veggies like bell peppers or radishes for extra crispness.
  • Adjust Heat Sensibly: Add jalapeño gradually, tasting as you go to keep spice level perfect.

Nutrition

Keywords: grilled corn salad, cotija cheese salad, summer salad, Mexican side dish, grilled vegetables, light meal

Find it online: https://homemademealz.com/grilled-corn-salad-with-cotija-cheese/