🍳DailyRecipes
Side Dish

Smoky Grilled Corn Salad

A vibrant and creamy summer side dish inspired by the classic flavors of Mexican street corn.

By Daily Recipes Book· 🌍 American· July 15, 2026
Smoky Grilled Corn Salad
dailyrecipesbook.com
Prep
15 minutes
Cook
15 minutes
Total
30 minutes
Serves
4

This grilled corn salad is a absolute favorite for outdoor cookouts and casual dinners. By grilling the corn directly on the grates, you get a beautiful smoky char that makes every bite taste like midsummer magic.

I love how the creamy dressing balances perfectly with the sweetness of the corn and the zing of fresh lime. It is a fantastic dish to bring to a potluck because it holds up well and always draws a crowd.

Ingredients

  • 4 ears of fresh corn
  • 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, quartered
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup sour cream
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/4 cup feta or Cotija cheese, crumbled
  • Salt to taste

Instructions

  1. 1

    Preheat your grill to medium high heat, around 375 to 450 degrees Fahrenheit.

  2. 2

    Shuck the corn and remove the silks, then place the bare ears directly onto the hot grill grates.

  3. 3

    Grill the corn for 12 to 15 minutes, turning occasionally so that it gets evenly charred and blackened on all sides.

  4. 4

    While the corn grills, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, garlic powder, and cumin in a small bowl to make the dressing.

  5. 5

    Once the corn is done, remove it from the grill and let it cool slightly. Use a sharp knife to cut the kernels off the cob.

  6. 6

    In a large bowl, combine the grilled corn, chopped red onion, tomatoes, and cilantro.

  7. 7

    Pour the dressing over the salad and toss everything together until well coated.

  8. 8

    Fold in the crumbled cheese and season with a little extra salt if needed before serving.

💡 Tips

You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Since the corn releases moisture, give the salad a quick stir and check the salt or lime levels before you serve it again.

#Vegetarian#Gluten Free#Healthy#Summer Side

Made this recipe? Let us know how it went.

You might also like