Grilled Corn Salad with Cotija

Grilled Corn Salad with Cotija is a vibrant and refreshing dish that captures the essence of Mexican street corn (elote) in every bite. Perfect for summer BBQs, picnics, or as a side dish at family dinners, this salad boasts bright flavors from chili-lime seasoning, fresh scallions, and creamy cotija cheese—all without any mayo. Whether you’re serving it at a gathering or enjoying it on your own, this Grilled Corn Salad is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This salad comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of grilled corn with chili-lime seasoning and cotija cheese creates a delightful taste explosion.
• Versatile Dish: Great as a standalone salad or a side dish for grilled meats, tacos, or any summer meal.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with fresh veggies and healthy fats from olive oil, this salad is nutritious and satisfying.
• No Mayo Needed: Enjoy a creamy texture without the heaviness of mayonnaise, making it lighter and refreshing.

Tools and Preparation

Before you get started on your Grilled Corn Salad with Cotija, it’s important to have the right tools. Gathering these items will make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Medium salad bowl
• Spatula or tongs

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Essential for charring the corn to enhance its natural sweetness and add smoky flavor.
• Cutting Board: Provides a safe surface to cut the kernels off the corn cobs easily.
• Salad Bowl: A medium-sized bowl allows for easy mixing of all ingredients without spills.
• Spatula or Tongs: Useful for turning the corn on the grill to achieve even cooking.

Ingredients

Grilled Corn Salad is inspired by Mexican street corn (elote) and made with chili-lime seasoning, scallions, and cotija cheese with no mayo.

For the Salad

• 6 large ears of corn (or 7 medium, 6 cups)
• 1/4 cup chopped scallions
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1/2 cup queso Cotija (crumbled)
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
• 1 teaspoon Tajin, Chili Lime Seasoning or Trader Joe’s Everything But the Elote seasoning (plus more for topping)
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• lime wedges (optional for serving)

How to Make Grilled Corn Salad with Cotija

Step 1: Preheat the Grill

Set the grill to medium-high heat. Husk the corn thoroughly to remove all silk.

Step 2: Grill the Corn

Grill the corn for about 10 to 12 minutes. Turn them often until they are charred in spots. Once done, transfer them to a cutting board and allow them to cool slightly.

Step 3: Cut Off the Kernels

Once cooled, cut the kernels off each cob using a sharp knife. Place the kernels into a medium salad bowl.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Add chopped scallions and crumbled cotija cheese into the bowl with corn. Drizzle everything with extra virgin olive oil and toss gently to combine.

Step 5: Season and Serve

Sprinkle in Tajin (chili lime seasoning) along with chopped cilantro. Toss again to mix well. Taste for salt and adjust if necessary. Serve topped with additional chili lime seasoning and fresh lime wedges if desired. Enjoy your delicious Grilled Corn Salad with Cotija!

How to Serve Grilled Corn Salad with Cotija

Grilled Corn Salad with Cotija is a vibrant and flavorful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

As a Standalone Salad

• Light and refreshing, this salad serves beautifully on its own. The combination of grilled corn, cotija cheese, and spices creates a satisfying dish perfect for summer meals.

With Grilled Proteins

• Pair this salad with grilled chicken, steak, or shrimp. The smoky flavors from the grill complement the freshness of the corn salad perfectly.

On Tacos

• Use Grilled Corn Salad as a topping for soft or hard-shell tacos. It adds a crunchy texture and bold flavor that elevates any taco filling.

As a Side Dish

• This salad makes an excellent side alongside BBQ dishes. Its zestiness balances rich meats like ribs or pulled pork.

In Wraps

• Incorporate Grilled Corn Salad into wraps with your choice of protein and greens for a tasty lunch option. The salad adds moisture and flavor without needing extra dressings.

this …

How to Perfect Grilled Corn Salad with Cotija

To ensure your Grilled Corn Salad is always a hit, keep these tips in mind.

• Use Fresh Corn: For the best flavor, opt for fresh corn on the cob rather than frozen or canned varieties.
• Grill for Flavor: Charring the corn enhances its sweetness. Make sure to turn it often for even cooking.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste before serving! Adjust salt and chili lime seasoning according to your preference.
• Add Avocado: For creaminess, consider adding diced avocado just before serving.
• Chill Before Serving: Allow the salad to chill for about 30 minutes after mixing to let flavors meld.
• Garnish Smartly: A sprinkle of extra cotija cheese or fresh cilantro just before serving adds visual appeal and freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Corn Salad with Cotija

Grilled Corn Salad pairs wonderfully with many dishes. Here are some great options to serve alongside it.

1. BBQ Chicken: Juicy grilled chicken smothered in BBQ sauce complements the fresh flavors of the corn salad.
2. Mexican Rice: A side of seasoned Mexican rice offers a hearty base that balances out the lightness of the salad.
3. Black Bean Tacos: These protein-packed tacos provide a delicious vegetarian option that pairs well with the corn salad.
4. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful stuffed peppers filled with quinoa or rice make an appealing and nutritious side dish.
5. Grilled Shrimp Skewers: Spicy grilled shrimp adds a zesty touch that matches perfectly with the sweetness of the corn.
6. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins bring an added layer of texture and flavor to your meal experience.
7. Guacamole and Chips: A classic appetizer that’s always welcome at any table—perfect for dipping while enjoying your main course.
8. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw provides a nice contrast in texture and is refreshing alongside spicy dishes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding mistakes can make your Grilled Corn Salad with Cotija even better. Here are some common pitfalls and how to steer clear of them.

• Using old corn: Fresh corn is key for the best flavor. Always choose sweet, firm ears for your salad.
• Overcooking the corn: Charring enhances flavor, but overcooked corn can become tough. Grill just until you see charred spots.
• Skipping the seasoning: The right seasoning elevates your dish. Don’t skip the Tajin or lime; they add essential flavor.
• Adding too much cheese: While Cotija is delicious, too much can overpower other flavors. Use the recommended amount for balance.
• Not cooling the corn: Cutting warm corn can lead to a soggy salad. Let it cool before mixing with other ingredients.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep it in the fridge to maintain freshness.

Freezing Grilled Corn Salad with Cotija

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating Grilled Corn Salad with Cotija

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Spread salad on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes, stirring halfway.
• Microwave: Place salad in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring at 30-second intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Warm over low heat in a skillet, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Grilled Corn Salad with Cotija.

Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen corn. Just grill it according to package instructions and proceed with the recipe as usual.

How do I customize my Grilled Corn Salad with Cotija?

Feel free to add diced bell peppers, jalapeños, or avocado for extra flavor and texture.

What can I serve with Grilled Corn Salad with Cotija?

This salad pairs well with grilled meats, tacos, or as part of a BBQ spread.

How long does Grilled Corn Salad last?

In the refrigerator, it lasts about 3 days. Make sure it’s stored properly in an airtight container.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Corn Salad with Cotija is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite veggies or adjusting seasonings to suit your taste. This refreshing dish makes an excellent side for any summer barbecue or gathering—give it a try!