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Flavorful Grilled Corn Salad with Zesty Lime Cilantro Butter

grilled corn salad - featured image

A smoky, fresh grilled corn salad tossed with a zesty lime cilantro butter, perfect for summer gatherings and easy to make with simple ingredients.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 large ears of corn, husked
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • Zest and juice of 2 limes
  • ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • ½ small red onion, finely diced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)
  • 1 small jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
  • Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
  • Optional: crumbled cotija cheese or feta, toasted pepitas

Instructions

  1. Prepare the lime cilantro butter: In a small bowl, combine softened butter with lime zest, lime juice, and chopped cilantro. Mix until smooth and set aside for about 10 minutes.
  2. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Brush corn lightly with olive oil.
  3. Grill corn for 10-12 minutes, turning every 2-3 minutes until kernels are tender and slightly charred.
  4. Let corn cool slightly, then slice kernels off the cob into a large mixing bowl.
  5. Add diced red onion, halved cherry tomatoes, and chopped jalapeño to the bowl.
  6. Spoon in the lime cilantro butter and gently toss to coat evenly.
  7. Season with salt and cracked black pepper to taste.
  8. Optionally, sprinkle crumbled cotija cheese or toasted pepitas on top.
  9. Serve slightly warm or at room temperature, garnished with extra cilantro leaves and lime wedges.

Notes

Avoid over-charring the corn to prevent bitterness. Use softened butter instead of melted for better coating. Season after tossing with butter to avoid watery salad. The lime cilantro butter can be made a day ahead and refrigerated. If no grill is available, use a broiler or oven roasting.

Nutrition

Keywords: grilled corn salad, lime cilantro butter, summer salad, easy corn salad, smoky corn, fresh corn salad, backyard cookout, potluck recipe