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Fresh Grilled Summer Corn Salad with Easy Cilantro Lime Dressing

fresh grilled summer corn salad - featured image

A vibrant and fresh summer side salad featuring smoky grilled corn tossed in a creamy avocado cilantro lime dressing. Perfect for BBQs and quick meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 ears fresh corn on the cob, husked and cleaned
  • 2 medium ripe avocados, peeled and diced
  • ½ cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
  • Juice of 2 limes (about 4 tablespoons)
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 clove garlic, minced finely
  • ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped (optional)
  • 1 small jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional)
  • Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
  • Optional: Cherry tomatoes, halved
  • Optional: Fresh cotija cheese, crumbled

Instructions

  1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F). Let the grill warm up fully, about 10 minutes.
  2. Husk the ears of corn and remove all silk threads. Lightly brush the corn with olive oil to prevent sticking and help caramelization.
  3. Place ears directly on the grill grates. Turn every 2-3 minutes so all sides get evenly charred and kernels become tender and smoky, about 12-15 minutes total.
  4. Let the grilled corn cool a few minutes until safe to handle. Slice the kernels off the cob into a large mixing bowl.
  5. In a blender or food processor, combine diced avocado, lime juice, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy. Add water if needed to loosen consistency.
  6. Add chopped cilantro, red onion, and jalapeño (if using) to the bowl with corn. Pour the avocado cilantro lime dressing over and toss gently until well coated.
  7. Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or extra lime juice to taste.
  8. Serve immediately or chill up to 24 hours. Bring to room temperature before serving for best flavor.

Notes

Hold the corn vertically in a bundt pan or bowl when cutting kernels to reduce mess. Use ripe but firm avocados for creamy dressing. If making ahead, keep corn and dressing separate until just before serving to avoid sogginess. Jalapeño is optional for heat; omit seeds for milder flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: grilled corn salad, summer salad, avocado dressing, cilantro lime dressing, BBQ side dish, vegan salad, gluten-free salad