Print

Fresh Grilled Corn Salad Recipe with Lime Crema and Cotija Cheese

fresh grilled corn salad - featured image
Print Recipe

A quick and easy fresh grilled corn salad featuring smoky charred corn, tangy lime crema, and salty Cotija cheese. Perfect for summer gatherings or a flavorful side dish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 ears fresh corn (husks removed)
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • ½ cup crumbled Cotija cheese
  • ½ cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt for tangier option)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice (about 1 lime)
  • 1 teaspoon lime zest
  • Salt to taste
  • ¼ cup chopped cilantro (optional)
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ¼ teaspoon chili powder (optional)
  • 1 small red bell pepper, finely diced (optional)

Instructions

  1. Remove husks and silk from the 4 ears of fresh corn. Brush each ear lightly with 2 tablespoons of olive oil to prevent sticking. (About 5 minutes)
  2. Place the corn on a preheated grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Grill for about 10-12 minutes, turning every 2-3 minutes until kernels develop a nice char with some blackened spots.
  3. Let the grilled corn cool for 5 minutes. Stand each ear upright on a cutting board and carefully slice down to remove kernels, yielding about 3 cups.
  4. In a small bowl, whisk together ½ cup sour cream, 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice, 1 teaspoon lime zest, and a pinch of salt to make the lime crema.
  5. In a large mixing bowl, combine the grilled corn kernels, ½ cup crumbled Cotija cheese, ¼ cup chopped cilantro, diced red bell pepper (if using), ½ teaspoon smoked paprika, and ¼ teaspoon chili powder. Toss gently.
  6. Pour the lime crema over the salad and toss again until evenly coated. Add more lime juice or olive oil if the salad seems dry.
  7. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt or lime juice as needed.
  8. Transfer to a serving bowl, sprinkle extra Cotija cheese and cilantro on top, and serve immediately or chill for up to an hour.

Notes

Keep grill heat medium-high and turn corn often to avoid burning. Fresh lime juice and zest add essential brightness. Smoked paprika adds subtle smoky warmth. Salad can be served warm or at room temperature. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Stir before serving again.

Nutrition

Keywords: grilled corn salad, lime crema, Cotija cheese, summer salad, easy side dish, smoky corn, fresh corn salad

Find it online: https://clunkcook.com/fresh-grilled-corn-salad-recipe-with-lime-crema-and-cotija-cheese-easy-and-delicious/