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Fresh Grilled Corn Salad with Cotija and Cilantro Lime Butter

fresh grilled corn salad - featured image

A vibrant and smoky grilled corn salad coated in a luscious cilantro lime butter and topped with crumbly Cotija cheese, perfect for summer sides and gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 ears fresh corn on the cob, husked and cleaned
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
  • Juice of 1 large lime
  • 1/2 cup Cotija cheese, crumbled
  • Salt to taste (preferably flaky sea salt)
  • Freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • Optional: diced red onion
  • Optional: chopped jalapeño
  • Optional: smoked paprika

Instructions

  1. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat (about 400°F).
  2. Grill the husked corn directly on the grill, turning every 2-3 minutes until all sides are charred and kernels are golden brown and blistered, about 10-12 minutes.
  3. While the corn grills, combine softened butter, chopped cilantro, and fresh lime juice in a small bowl. Mix until smooth and well blended. Adjust lime or salt to taste.
  4. Once the corn is cool enough to handle (about 5 minutes after grilling), hold the cob vertically on a cutting board and slice downward with a sharp serrated knife to remove the kernels.
  5. In a large bowl, toss the grilled corn kernels with the cilantro lime butter until evenly coated.
  6. Add crumbled Cotija cheese, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Fold in optional diced red onion or jalapeño if using.
  7. Taste and adjust seasoning, adding a squeeze of fresh lime juice if desired.
  8. Serve immediately or chill for up to an hour. Bring to room temperature before serving if chilled.

Notes

Use a serrated knife to cut kernels for better grip and safety. Softened butter coats kernels better than cold butter. Fresh lime juice is preferred over bottled for brightness. If no grill is available, use a grill pan or broiler carefully to avoid burning. For dairy-free, substitute butter with coconut oil or vegan margarine and omit Cotija cheese or use vegan cheese.

Nutrition

Keywords: grilled corn salad, cotija cheese, cilantro lime butter, summer side dish, smoky corn salad, easy corn salad, Mexican corn salad