How to Make Grilled Corn Salad with Cotija Cheese

Nothing says summer fun like a vibrant, flavorful Grilled Corn Salad with Cotija Cheese. This fresh, zesty recipe brings together sweet, smoky corn, creamy and salty Cotija cheese, and crunchy, colorful veggies for a perfect side dish or light meal. Whether you’re firing up the grill for a BBQ or just want a quick, delicious dinner, this Grilled Corn Salad with Cotija Cheese is bursting with bold textures and tastes that will brighten up any table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fresh and Flavorful: The grilled corn adds a smoky sweetness that pairs beautifully with tangy Cotija cheese and crisp veggies.
• Simple Ingredients: You only need a handful of easy-to-find ingredients to make this show-stopping salad.
• Colorful and Inviting: This dish dazzles with bright yellow, red, and green veggies that make it as pretty as it is tasty.
• Quick to Prepare: No complicated steps or long cook times – perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Versatile and Adaptable: Easily customized to your taste or dietary needs, making it a recipe you’ll return to again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Grilled Corn Salad with Cotija Cheese uses simple ingredients that each add an essential element, from texture to flavor or color. You’ll love how every single component works harmoniously to create a salad that feels fresh and satisfying.

• Fresh corn on the cob: Grilled to perfection for a smoky, sweet base.
• Cotija cheese: Crumbly and salty, it adds creamy richness without overwhelming the dish.
• Red bell pepper: Adds crunchy sweetness and vibrant color.
• Red onion: Provides a sharp, zesty bite to balance richness.
• Fresh cilantro: Offers bright herbal notes and a pop of green.
• Juicy lime juice: Zesty acidity to brighten all the flavors.
• Olive oil: Brings everything together with a smooth, fruity richness.
• Salt and pepper: Essential seasoning to enhance natural flavors.
• Optional jalapeño: For gentle heat and extra kick if you like a spicy twist.

Variations for Grilled Corn Salad with Cotija Cheese

This Grilled Corn Salad with Cotija Cheese recipe is incredibly versatile. Feel free to tweak it based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences—making it your own is part of the fun!

• Add avocado: Creamy chunks of avocado boost the richness and add a buttery texture.
• Use feta instead of Cotija: Feta offers a tangy alternative if Cotija isn’t available.
• Swap bell peppers for cherry tomatoes: For a burst of juicy sweetness and color.
• Mix in black beans: For a protein boost and a heartier salad.
• Make it vegan: Omit the Cotija and add a sprinkle of toasted nuts or seeds for crunch.

How to Make Grilled Corn Salad with Cotija Cheese

Step 1: Prepare and Grill the Corn

Start by husking your fresh corn cobs, then brush them lightly with olive oil. Heat your grill to medium-high and cook the corn until it develops beautiful char marks all over, turning occasionally—about 10 minutes. This grilled corn is the soul of your salad, bringing irresistible smoky sweetness.

Step 2: Chop the Veggies

While the corn cools, finely dice your red bell pepper and red onion. Mince fresh cilantro and, if using, jalapeño for some heat. These colorful ingredients add layers of flavor and crisp crunch to balance the sweetness of the corn.

Step 3: Cut the Kernels Off the Cob

Once the corn is cool enough to handle, carefully slice the kernels off each cob using a sharp knife. Be sure to hold the cob upright on a cutting board to avoid slipping. The kernels are the star of this fresh, textured dish.

Step 4: Combine All Ingredients

In a large bowl, toss the grilled corn kernels with the diced vegetables, minced cilantro, olive oil, and fresh lime juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and gently crumble Cotija cheese over the top. Give everything a light toss so the cheese remains visible and adds its salty pops.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

For the best flavor, refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving. This lets the flavors meld beautifully. Serve chilled or at room temperature for a refreshing, crowd-pleasing dish!

Pro Tips for Making Grilled Corn Salad with Cotija Cheese

• Choose fresh corn: Look for corn with bright green husks and moist silk for the sweetest flavor.
• Don’t overcook the corn: Perfect grill marks add flavor without drying out the kernels.
• Use fresh lime juice: Bottled juice won’t give you the same bright, fresh acidity.
• Salt at the end: Adding salt too early can cause vegetables to release water and dilute the salad.
• Chill before serving: This step enhances the refreshing taste and lets flavors harmonize.

How to Serve Grilled Corn Salad with Cotija Cheese

Garnishes

Sprinkle extra Cotija cheese or freshly chopped cilantro on top for a pretty, flavorful finish. A few lime wedges on the side add visual charm and let guests adjust the acidity to their liking.

Side Dishes

This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats like chicken or steak, as well as seafood like shrimp or fish tacos. It’s also fantastic alongside simple rice or quinoa for a light vegetarian meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the salad in colorful bowls or hollowed-out bell peppers for eye-catching presentation. You can also spoon it onto tostada shells or corn chips to turn it into a fun appetizer or snack.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. The flavors actually deepen, but the salad is best enjoyed fresh to maintain the crisp veggies and texture.

Freezing

We don’t recommend freezing this Grilled Corn Salad with Cotija Cheese since fresh vegetables and cheese don’t freeze well and can become watery upon thawing.

Reheating

This dish is best served cold or at room temperature, so no reheating is needed. If you prefer, you can let it sit out for 15 minutes before serving to soften the chill from the fridge.

FAQs

Can I use canned or frozen corn instead of fresh?

Fresh corn grilled on the cob offers the best flavor, but in a pinch, grilled frozen corn (thawed and lightly charred in a pan) can work. Canned corn lacks the smoky depth, so it’s not ideal.

Is Cotija cheese similar to feta?

They both have a crumbly texture and salty flavor, but Cotija is a Mexican cheese with a slightly tangier, less creamy taste, which pairs beautifully with the grilled corn.

Can I make this salad vegan?

Absolutely! Just omit the Cotija cheese and consider adding toasted pumpkin seeds or crumbled tofu for texture and protein.

What’s the best way to reheat leftover grilled corn salad?

This salad is meant to be served cold or at room temperature, so no reheating is necessary or recommended to preserve freshness and texture.

How long does the salad keep in the fridge?

Stored properly in an airtight container, the salad stays fresh for up to two days, though it’s best enjoyed the same day for maximum crunch and flavor.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a quick, vibrant dish that delivers on flavor and freshness, the Grilled Corn Salad with Cotija Cheese is your new go-to. It’s perfect for summer BBQs, easy weeknight dinners, or whenever you want something light yet satisfying. Give it a try—you might just find it becoming your favorite staple to celebrate the flavors of the season!

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