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Smoky Grilled Elote Corn Salad with Cotija Cheese: Easy Best Recipe

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This smoky grilled elote corn salad with cotija cheese is a quick and easy side dish that brings campfire flavor to any cookout. Charred corn kernels are tossed in a creamy, tangy dressing with salty cotija cheese and fresh cilantro for an unforgettable bite.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 ears fresh sweet corn, husked
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/3 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons sour cream
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
  • 1 teaspoon lime zest
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup cotija cheese, crumbled
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely diced (optional)
  • Extra lime wedges for serving

Instructions

  1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (400°F to 450°F). Clean and oil the grates.
  2. Husk the corn and remove all silk. Pat dry, then brush each ear lightly with olive oil.
  3. Grill the corn for 10 to 12 minutes, turning every 2 to 3 minutes, until kernels are charred with black spots.
  4. Let the corn cool for 5 minutes on a cutting board.
  5. Stand each ear upright and cut the kernels off the cob using a sharp chef’s knife. You should have about 4 to 4 1/2 cups of kernels.
  6. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, lime zest, chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  7. Place warm corn kernels in a large mixing bowl. Pour dressing over and toss gently to coat.
  8. Fold in crumbled cotija cheese, chopped cilantro, and diced jalapeño (if using). Reserve some cheese and cilantro for garnish.
  9. Transfer to a serving bowl. Garnish with reserved cotija and cilantro, extra black pepper, and a light dusting of chili powder. Serve with lime wedges.

Notes

Do not add dressing while corn is piping hot; let it cool 5 minutes first. For best char, get visible black spots on kernels. Use room temperature dairy for smoother dressing. Toasting chili powder in a dry skillet for 30 seconds deepens flavor. Season in layers for best taste.

Nutrition

Keywords: grilled elote corn salad, smoky corn salad, cotija cheese, summer side dish, easy corn salad recipe

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