Go Back
smoky charred corn salad recipe

Smoky Charred Corn Salad

Marcus Reed AuthorMarcus Reed
A smoky charred corn salad perfect for any cookout, featuring fire-roasted corn and a medley of fresh ingredients.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Side Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 8 cups
Calories 180 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 grill medium-high heat
  • 1 large bowl
  • 1 knife for chopping

Ingredients
  

Salad Ingredients

  • 6 ears of corn husked
  • 1 red bell pepper diced
  • 1/2 red onion chopped
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved

Dressing

  • 1/4 cup lime juice
  • 3 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Garnish

  • 1/4 cup cilantro chopped
  • 1/4 cup cotija cheese crumbled

Instructions
 

Corn Preparation

  • Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Peel back the husks of the corn without removing them and remove the silk. Soak the ears of corn in water for about 10 minutes to prevent them from burning. Place the corn on the grill, turning occasionally, until the husks are charred and the kernels are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
  • Allow the grilled corn to cool slightly. Once cool enough to handle, use a sharp knife to cut the kernels off the cob and transfer them to a large bowl.

Salad Assembly

  • Add the diced red bell pepper, chopped red onion, and halved cherry tomatoes to the bowl with the corn. Toss gently to combine all the ingredients evenly.
  • In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss to coat thoroughly.
  • Fold in the chopped cilantro and crumbled cotija cheese. These garnishes add freshness and a creamy texture to the salad.

Serving

  • Transfer the salad to a serving dish and enjoy it cold or at room temperature. This makes for a refreshing side at any BBQ or cookout.

Storage

  • Place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. The flavors will continue to meld, enhancing the taste.

Notes

Pro Tips: Use fresh corn for the best results. Ingredient Substitutions: Try feta cheese instead of cotija for a different flavor. How to Serve: Pair with grilled meats or vegetarian mains. Storage & Freshness: Consume within three days for best texture. Make-Ahead Tips: You can grill the corn a day in advance.
Keyword BBQ corn salad, grilled corn salad, smoky charred corn salad