Easy Grilled Corn Salad with Cotija Cheese for Summer

If you’re craving a vibrant, fresh, and incredibly easy summer dish, you’ve come to the right place! This Grilled Corn Salad with Cotija Cheese combines smoky, sweet grilled corn with tangy Cotija, a sprinkle of fresh herbs, and a zingy dressing that bursts with flavor. Perfect for backyard BBQs, picnics, or a quick weeknight meal, this salad is fresh, filling, and ready in minutes. It’s the ultimate way to enjoy the bounty of summer’s best corn and bring a fiesta of textures and tastes to your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple and Quick: Ready in under 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy summer days and last-minute gatherings.
• Bright and Flavorful: The combination of grilled corn, tangy Cotija cheese, and a zesty dressing creates a vibrant taste explosion.
• Versatile Dish: Works perfectly as a side or a light main, and pairs with a wide range of meals from grilled meats to tacos.
• Fresh Ingredients: Uses wholesome, colorful ingredients that celebrate summer produce at its best.
• Family Favorite: Loved by kids and adults alike for its approachable, delicious flavors.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering just a handful of simple, fresh ingredients gives this salad its irresistible flavor and crunch. Each component plays a crucial role in balancing sweetness, creaminess, and zest while adding pops of color and texture your taste buds will thank you for.

• Fresh Sweet Corn: The star of the dish, ideally grilled to develop smoky charred notes and sweetness.
• Cotija Cheese: A salty, crumbly Mexican cheese that adds creamy tang and depth to the salad.
• Fresh Lime Juice: Adds a bright, citrusy kick to brighten the flavors.
• Fresh Cilantro: Offers a fresh, herbal note that complements the corn perfectly.
• Jalapeño: For a mild heat that livens up the salad without overpowering.
• Red Onion: Adds crunch and a subtle sharpness that cuts through the creaminess.
• Mayonnaise or Greek Yogurt: Provides a creamy texture and helps bind the salad together.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasoning to make all the flavors pop.

Variations for Grilled Corn Salad with Cotija Cheese

Feel free to tweak this recipe depending on what you have on hand or your dietary preferences. This salad is incredibly forgiving and invites creativity, allowing you to customize it just the way you like.

• Spicy Upgrade: Add extra jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper for more kick.
• Vegan Version: Swap Cotija cheese with crumbled tofu or a plant-based cheese alternative.
• Herb Twist: Experiment with fresh basil or mint instead of cilantro for new flavors.
• Grilled Veggie Boost: Toss in grilled bell peppers or zucchini for extra color and nutrition.
• Avocado Addition: Mix in diced avocado for creaminess and richness.

How to Make Grilled Corn Salad with Cotija Cheese

Step 1: Prepare and Grill the Corn

Start by heating your grill to medium-high. Husk the corn and remove silk, then place the ears directly on the grill grates. Cook for about 10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the corn develops a nice char with some blackened spots that add smoky flavor.

Step 2: Cut Kernels Off the Cob

Once grilled and cooled slightly, stand each ear vertically on a cutting board and slice the kernels off with a sharp knife. Be careful to get close to the cob to maximize the amount of corn for your salad.

Step 3: Combine Fresh Ingredients

In a large bowl, add the grilled corn kernels, finely diced red onion, chopped jalapeño (seeded if you want less heat), and chopped fresh cilantro. Toss these fresh veggies together for a burst of color and flavor.

Step 4: Make the Dressing and Toss

In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt), fresh lime juice, salt, and pepper. Pour this tangy dressing over the corn mixture and toss gently to combine.

Step 5: Add Cotija Cheese

Sprinkle crumbled Cotija cheese generously over the salad and fold it in lightly to distribute the salty, creamy goodness without breaking it down completely.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Serve immediately for the freshest experience or chill for about 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld beautifully.

Pro Tips for Making Grilled Corn Salad with Cotija Cheese

• Use fresh corn: Fresh ears produce the sweetest, most flavorful salad—frozen just won’t have the same bite.
• Don’t rush grilling: Allow the corn enough time to char to get that smoky flavor that defines this dish.
• Taste and adjust: After tossing with dressing, always taste to tweak salt, lime, or heat as needed.
• Crush the Cotija: Hand-crumbling the cheese creates a better texture than pre-crumbled versions.
• Chill briefly: A short refrigeration before serving helps the flavors marry but don’t over-chill or it can dull freshness.

How to Serve Grilled Corn Salad with Cotija Cheese

Garnishes

Top with extra crumbled Cotija, lime wedges, and a sprinkle of smoked paprika or chili powder for eye-catching, flavorful finishes.

Side Dishes

This salad shines alongside grilled chicken, fish tacos, or even just alongside tortilla chips for an effortless snack or light lunch.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve it in hollowed-out bell peppers for a colorful bowl or layer it in mason jars for picnic-friendly portability and neat presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days; note that fresh corn texture softens over time.

Freezing

This salad is best enjoyed fresh and isn’t recommended for freezing, as the texture of grilled corn and fresh ingredients can degrade.

Reheating

If you prefer it warm, gently reheat in a skillet just to take the chill off, but avoid microwaving which can make ingredients mushy.

FAQs

Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh?

While fresh grilled corn is ideal for its flavor and texture, you can use thawed frozen corn; however, it won’t have the same smoky, charred taste.

Is Cotija cheese easy to find?

Most grocery stores with a well-stocked cheese section carry Cotija, or you can find it at Mexican markets or online.

How spicy is this salad?

The heat level is mild and adjustable since you can add or omit jalapeño depending on your spice preference.

Can I make this salad vegan?

Yes! Simply swap Cotija for a plant-based cheese and use vegan mayo or avocado for creaminess.

How long does this salad keep its freshness?

For best taste and texture, enjoy the salad within 2 days of preparation, when the fresh flavors are most vibrant.

Final Thoughts

This Grilled Corn Salad with Cotija Cheese absolutely embodies everything wonderful about summer—freshness, simplicity, and incredible flavor. Whether you’re grilling out or just want a quick, satisfying salad, this recipe is a total winner. Dive in, savor the sweet and smoky corn paired with tangy cheese and a bright dressing, and share the joy with family and friends. Once you try it, you’ll want it on repeat all summer long!

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