Chili-Lime Grilled Corn Salad Recipe

Name: Chili-Lime Grilled Corn Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 ears fresh corn on the cob; 2 limes (juiced); 1 tsp chili powder; 1/2 cup red onion (finely chopped); 1/4 cup fresh cilantro (chopped); 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Published: June 2, 2025

by Hailey parker

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Chili-Lime Grilled Corn Salad is easy to prepare and perfect for summer cookouts
Its tangy flavor profile makes it irresistible to all palates
The bright colors and textures make it visually stunning on any table setting
Versatile enough to pair with anything from grilled meats to tacos, it’s a must-try!

Sharing this recipe always brings smiles from family and friends, reminding me of sunny days spent outdoors.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Fresh Corn on the Cob: Look for bright yellow cobs with plump kernels; these are key for sweetness.
Limes: Choose firm limes for maximum juiciness; their tanginess balances the sweetness of corn perfectly.
Chili Powder: Use your favorite chili powder; it adds warmth and depth to the salad without overwhelming it.
Red Onion: A finely chopped red onion adds crunch and a mild bite; soak in water if you want less intensity.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro brings an herby brightness; be generous if you love its bold flavor.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil gives richness; use high-quality oil for the best taste.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance all flavors; adjust according to your taste preference.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make It Together

Prepare Your Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, aiming for around 400°F (200°C). This temperature ensures perfect roasting without burning those precious kernels.

Grill the Corn: Place the corn on the grill grates and turn occasionally until charred and tender, about 10-15 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when you see those beautiful grill marks!

Cool and Cut Corn Kernels: Once grilled, let the corn cool slightly before cutting off the kernels using a sharp knife. Be careful as those kernels can pop off like popcorn!

Mix Your Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, chili powder, salt, and pepper until combined. The dressing should smell fresh and zesty!

Toss Everything Together: In a large bowl, combine corn kernels, diced red onion, chopped cilantro, and drizzle with dressing. Toss gently until everything is well-coated.

Serve It Up!: Transfer your vibrant Chili-Lime Grilled Corn Salad into a serving bowl or individual plates. Mexican street corn flavors Enjoy immediately or let it chill in the fridge for an hour to meld those flavors beautifully!

Now grab your fork (or just dive in with your hands) because this salad is calling your name!

You Must Know

This Chili-Lime Grilled Corn Salad is not just a side; it’s a vibrant explosion of flavors
You’ll love how the tangy lime and spicy chili elevate the sweet corn, making it a showstopper at any barbecue
The colors alone will make your guests swoon!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by grilling the corn until it’s charred, then mix with other ingredients while it cools. This sequence ensures the corn stays warm and retains its juicy sweetness.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the corn for grilled zucchini or add black beans for extra protein. tasty black bean cups A sprinkle of fresh herbs can also amp up the flavor!

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. To reheat, just toss it in a skillet for a few minutes until warm and fresh.

Chef's Helpful Tips

To achieve maximum flavor, grill your corn directly on high heat for that perfect char
Don’t skip the lime juice; it adds brightness!
Use fresh cilantro instead of dried for a burst of flavor

Sharing this recipe reminds me of that summer BBQ when my friend took one bite and declared it ‘life-changing.’ I’ll never forget that look of pure joy on their face!

FAQ

What type of corn is best for this salad?

Fresh sweet corn on the cob offers the best flavor and texture for this salad.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, prepare it a few hours in advance; just add lime juice before serving.

Is there a way to make it spicier?

Absolutely! Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper for extra heat.

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card