Grilled Corn Salad with Chililime Dressing
Recipe Introduction
Ever find yourself staring blankly into the fridge wondering, “What grilling side dishes can I even make?”. Honestly, I've been there, done that, bought the t-shirt! This grilled corn salad recipe is the answer.
It's got that sweet, smoky, tangy thing going on pure flavour fireworks, I tell you!
Corn Salad: More Than Just a Sidekick
This salad isn't just any side. It’s a celebration of summer! Think sunny days, BBQs, and good company. Originating from the American Southwest, this dish is all about fresh ingredients and bold flavors.
Plus, it's an easy grilling recipe. It's so simple, even your nan could whip it up. It will take only 35 minutes to prepare, and this recipe makes about 6 servings, perfect for a family gathering or a potluck side dish idea .
Unlock the Goodness of Grilling Side Dishes
Oh my gosh, this bbq side dish is packed with goodness! Corn is a great source of fiber, which is brilliant for keeping things, well, moving .
Serve it at your next BBQ or potluck, as it pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, steak, or even on its own.
What makes it special? The corn salad with chili lime dressing that gives it that zesty kick. It's one of the best sides for steak .
Plus, you can make-ahead bbq sides , which is a game changer when you're hosting.
Time to Get Those Grills Fired Up For Outdoor Cooking Side Dishes
So, what do you need to bring this bad boy to life? Don't worry, it's all stuff you probably already have in your cupboard.
Let's Talk Grilling Side Dishes: The Essentials
Alright, let's get real about what you need for a fantastic grilled corn salad recipe . This isn’t rocket science. Think of it as a really fancy bbq side dish that everyone will actually eat.
Trust me. Even your picky Uncle Barry.
Main Ingredients Breakdown
For killer corn, you'll need 6 ears of fresh corn. About 3 lbs or 1.3 kg . Seriously, fresh is key.
The corn should feel firm and plump. 2 tablespoons or 30 ml of olive oil will help char it up nicely.
Salt and pepper are a must, obviously.
The corn salad with chili lime dressing needs zip! Grab 1/4 cup or 60 ml of fresh lime juice. That’s about 2 to 3 limes.
2 tablespoons or 30 ml of olive oil. Don't forget 1 tablespoon or 15 ml of honey and 1 teaspoon or 5 ml of chili powder.
A bit of 1/2 teaspoon or 2.5 ml of cumin and 1/4 teaspoon or 1.25 ml of garlic powder.
Cayenne pepper? Only if you're feeling brave.
For the actual salad part, aim for 1 red bell pepper. Diced, of course. Half a red onion, also diced.
1 avocado, diced right before serving to prevent browning. Then, 1/2 cup or 120 ml of chopped fresh cilantro. Feeling fancy? A 1/4 cup or 60 ml of crumbled cotija cheese works a treat.
Feta is a good sub if you don't have cotija.
Seasoning Sensations
Chili powder and cumin are the backbone of this summer side dish . Seriously, don't skimp! Garlic powder gives a subtle savoury touch.
Don't have chili powder? Smoked paprika is an awesome swap. It gives it a nice depth.
Equipment You Can't Live Without
You absolutely need a grill! Gas, charcoal, even a grill pan will do. A good mixing bowl is essential. A whisk makes the dressing super smooth.
And don't forget a decent cutting board and sharp knife! Don't have a grill? You could roast the corn in the oven, but it's not quite the same, you know? I've done it in a pinch, though.
It's still a nice potluck side dish ideas .
Cooking Method: Grilling Corn Salad Like a Pro!
Fancy a bit of summer side dishes fun? Then buckle up, buttercup, because we're diving into the wonderful world of grilling corn salad! I was at a BBQ last week and this fantastic grilled corn salad recipe stole the show! This isn't your nan's corn on the cob.
This is next level. Plus, it’s one of the easy grilling recipes that will make you look like a culinary genius, even if you're just winging it like I usually do.
Prep Like a Boss
- Essential mise en place: First things first, get your corn, bell pepper, red onion, and cilantro chopped and ready. Having everything prepped saves loads of time.
- Time saving organization tips: Chop the veggies while the grill heats up. You will be killing two birds with one stone.
- Safety reminders: Watch out for those little bits of silk! They can be a pain to remove. Also, mind your fingers when cutting corn off the cob. Been there, sliced that!
From Grill to Gorgeous: The step-by-step
- Brush your six ears of corn with two tablespoons of olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
- Grill over medium heat ( approximately 375° F/ 190° C ) for 10- 15 minutes . Turn them often!
- Let the corn cool slightly. Then, carefully cut the kernels off the cob.
- Whisk together ¼ cup lime juice, two tablespoons olive oil, one tablespoon honey, one teaspoon chili powder, ½ teaspoon cumin, ¼ teaspoon garlic powder, cayenne pepper (optional), salt, and pepper for your chili lime dressing.
- Combine your kernels, one diced red bell pepper, ½ diced red onion, one diced avocado, and ½ cup chopped cilantro in a large bowl.
- Pour the dressing over the top and toss gently.
- Garnish with ¼ cup crumbled cotija cheese if you are feeling fancy, and serve immediately.
This bbq side dishes option will be the first to go, trust me.
Pro Tips for Maximum Flavor
- Want extra smokiness? Grill your bell pepper along with the corn! Adds a real depth of flavor. These are great grilled vegetable sides .
- Avoid overcooking the corn! You want it tender crisp. Overcooked corn will be mushy. Nobody wants that!
- Make this make-ahead bbq sides dream a reality! The salad can be made a day in advance, but add the avocado just before serving to prevent browning. It is one of the best potluck side dish ideas .
Honestly, this grilled corn salad is a total winner. It's packed with flavor, easy to make, and goes with just about anything.
It makes one of the best sides for steak , seriously. Serve it alongside grilled chicken or fish, or even just eat it straight out of the bowl.
No judgement here! Enjoy your outdoor cooking side dishes
Recipe Notes: Making the Most of Your Grilled Corn Salad
Right, so you're about to dive into making this amazing grilled corn salad recipe , aren't ya? Honestly, it's dead easy, but here are a few bits and bobs that'll make it even better.
I learned these the hard way, after a few… shall we say… "learning experiences" in the kitchen. Let me spill the beans.
Serving Suggestions: Show It Off!
Presentation matters, right? For a classic BBQ side dishes vibe, pile the salad high on a platter. Garnish with extra cilantro and a sprinkle of cotija.
For a bit of posh, try serving individual portions in small mason jars. It looks proper fancy! As for drinks, this salad screams for something light and zesty.
Think refreshing lime margaritas or a cool glass of iced tea! It's one of the best sides for steak that is also a treat on its own.
Storage Tips: Keepin' it Fresh
This salad is best served fresh, no doubt. But if you have leftovers (unlikely!), bung it in an airtight container in the fridge.
It'll keep for two to three days . Honestly, it's never lasted longer than that in my house. Reheating? Nah, just let it come to room temperature before serving.
Freezing isn't ideal. The avocado goes a bit weird, you know?
Variations: Get Creative!
Fancy a bit of a twist? Chuck in some grilled halloumi for extra protein. Seriously, try it! For a vegan version, skip the cotija cheese (or use a vegan feta alternative).
Agave nectar works a treat instead of honey in the corn salad with chili lime dressing . It is a fun way to make this potluck side dish ideas work for everyone.
You can even make this a winter side dish with root vegetables, just swap out the summer ingredients for something seasonal and this summer side dishes becomes a year round hit!
Nutrition Basics: Goodness in Every Bite
Okay, let's keep it real. This salad isn't exactly a kale smoothie, but it's packed with good stuff! You're getting vitamins from the peppers and corn, healthy fats from the avocado, and a decent dose of fiber.
Plus, lime juice is full of Vitamin C. So, you know, it’s practically a health food!
So there you have it! With these tips up your sleeve, you're ready to whip up a cracking grilled corn salad .
It is the kind of outdoor cooking side dishes that will make you the star of your next barbecue! Go on, get grilling and enjoy this easy grilling recipes and grilled vegetable sides recipe.
You got this!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some good grilling side dishes, and is this corn salad one of them?
Absolutely! This grilled corn salad is a fantastic grilling side dish because it's quick, easy, and adds a burst of fresh flavor to your BBQ spread. Grilling the corn gives it a lovely smoky char that complements grilled meats and veggies perfectly. Think of it as the "sidekick" your burgers have been waiting for.
Can I make this grilled corn salad ahead of time, or is it best served fresh?
You can definitely prep some components ahead of time! Grill the corn and make the dressing earlier in the day, but hold off on adding the avocado until just before serving to prevent browning. Tossing it all together right before serving ensures the freshest flavor and best texture.
It's like brewing a good cup of tea timing is key!
How can I adapt this recipe if I don't have a grill or the weather's being a bit "pants?"
No worries if your grill's out of commission! You can achieve a similar flavor by roasting the corn in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes, turning halfway through. Alternatively, a grill pan on your stovetop will also work wonders.
It's all about improvisation, like making a Sunday roast without Yorkshire puddings - still delicious!
What are some tasty variations I can try with this grilling side dish recipe?
Get creative! Adding black beans gives a lovely protein boost, while a finely chopped jalapeño brings the heat. If you're not a fan of cilantro, parsley or basil are great substitutes. For a vegan option, swap the cotija for a vegan feta and use agave instead of honey.
Think of it as putting your own signature on a classic tune - make it your own!
How long will leftover grilled corn salad last, and what's the best way to store it?
Leftover grilled corn salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Keep in mind that the avocado might brown slightly, but it's still safe to eat! A squeeze of extra lime juice can help slow down the browning process.
Just give it a good stir before serving, like rescuing your gravy after it split at Christmas dinner!
Is this Grilled Corn Salad recipe healthy? What are the nutritional benefits?
This salad is a nutritional winner! It's packed with fiber from the corn and bell pepper, healthy fats from the avocado and olive oil, and vitamins from the lime juice and herbs. It is a balanced dish with a good amount of protein and fat. This makes it a delicious and guilt free addition to your BBQ.
It's like getting your five-a-day without even trying!
Grilled Corn Salad With Chililime Dressing
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 250 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 15g |
| Fiber | 5g |
