This bright and tasty grilled corn salad is packed with fresh flavors! Sweet corn, crunchy veggies, and a mix of herbs come together for a colorful dish that’s perfect for any meal.
I love how the grill brings out the sweetness of the corn, and the fresh herbs add a lovely touch. Just toss it all together and serve—easy peasy! 🌽✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Corn: Fresh corn is the star of this salad. The sweet, grilled kernels give that amazing flavor. If you can’t find fresh corn, frozen or canned corn can work; just make sure to drain and pat dry.
Avocado: Avocado adds creaminess. If you’re looking for a lower-fat option or a different flavor, try using diced cucumber instead. It adds a nice crunch!
Cherry Tomatoes: These add sweetness and color. Grape tomatoes are a suitable alternative. If you’re not a fan of tomatoes, you could swap in diced bell peppers for a fresh crunch.
Red Onion: This gives a sharp bite but can be replaced by green onions for a milder flavor or even finely chopped shallots.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro brings brightness. If you’re not a fan, try parsley or basil for a different twist!
How Do You Grill Corn Perfectly?
Grilling corn correctly is essential for that smoky flavor. Here’s how to ensure you get it just right:
- Start with clean, husked corn. Rinse to remove any silk.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high to get an even cook.
- Brush corn (and onions if using) lightly with olive oil to help with caramelization.
- Grill the corn for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally until nicely charred.
- Check for tenderness; it should be cooked but still crunchy!
Cooling the corn slightly before cutting helps prevent burns. Enjoy the grilling process—it adds such good flavor!
Easy Grilled Corn Salad with Fresh Herbs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 3 ears of fresh corn, husked
- 1 large avocado, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 small red onion, sliced into wedges
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
For Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 15 minutes to grill, totaling roughly 30 minutes to make. Easy enough for a quick summer side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. It’s important to get a good sear on the corn and onions.
2. Prepare the Veggies:
Brush the corn and onion wedges lightly with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. This will help them grill better and adds flavor.
3. Grill the Corn and Onion:
Place the corn and onion on the grill. Grill the corn for about 10-12 minutes, turning it occasionally until it’s tender and charred in spots. Grill the onion wedges for about 5-7 minutes until they are slightly charred and softened. Once done, take them off the grill and let them cool slightly.
4. Cut the Corn and Onion:
After they’ve cooled a bit, cut the corn kernels off the cob and chop the grilled onion into smaller pieces. This will make it easier to mix into the salad.
5. Mix Everything in a Bowl:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the grilled corn, chopped onion, halved cherry tomatoes, diced avocado, and chopped cilantro. This combination will create a vibrant and colorful salad.
6. Add the Dressing:
Drizzle the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil and the lime juice over the salad. Gently toss everything together until well combined.
7. Season to Taste:
Finally, season the salad with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Taste to see if you want to add more seasoning!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the salad immediately for the freshest flavor, or chill it for a bit to let the flavors meld together. Enjoy this delicious side with your favorite summer dishes!
This vibrant salad features smoky grilled corn and sweet charred onions balanced with creamy avocado and fresh cilantro for a bright, fresh flavor perfect for summer!
FAQ for Easy Grilled Corn Salad with Fresh Herbs
Can I Use Canned or Frozen Corn for This Salad?
Yes, you can! If using canned corn, make sure to drain and rinse it thoroughly. For frozen corn, thaw it first and pat dry. Grill it briefly just to add a little char and warmth, if desired.
How Can I Store Leftover Salad?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The avocados may brown a bit, so if you want to keep it looking vibrant, consider adding the avocado fresh when you’re ready to serve.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can grill the corn and onions a day in advance. Just store them in the fridge separately and mix everything together, adding the avocado just before serving for the best texture.
What Other Herbs Can I Use?
If you’re not a fan of cilantro, you can substitute it with parsley, basil, or even dill. Each herb will lend a unique flavor to the salad, so feel free to experiment!
