This Smoky Corn Salad is a vibrant, flavorful dish that brings together the natural sweetness of fresh corn, the smokiness of charred bell peppers, and the zest of lime. It’s a perfect side dish for summer barbecues or potlucks, adding a fresh and colorful element to the table. The combination of crisp vegetables, smoky spices, and a tangy dressing creates a harmony of flavors that will delight your taste buds. Whether you serve it alongside grilled meats or enjoy it as a light and refreshing vegetarian main, this salad is sure to be a hit with everyone!
Ingredients:
- 4 ears of fresh corn, husked
- 1 red bell pepper
- 1 green bell pepper
- 1 small red onion, finely diced
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta or cotija cheese (optional)
- Juice of 2 limes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Char the Vegetables: Preheat your grill or a stovetop grill pan over medium-high heat. Grill the corn and bell peppers, turning occasionally, until they are charred in spots and tender, about 10 minutes. Remove from the grill and let cool slightly.
- Prepare the Corn and Peppers: Cut the corn kernels off the cobs and transfer them to a large bowl. Remove the skins, seeds, and stems from the bell peppers, then chop them into small pieces and add to the bowl with the corn.
- Mix the Salad: Add the red onion, jalapeño, and cilantro to the bowl. If using, add the crumbled feta or cotija cheese.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, smoked paprika, ground cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Combine and Serve: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss everything together until well coated. Adjust seasoning to taste. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to an hour to let the flavors meld.
- Garnish and Enjoy: Garnish with additional cilantro or cheese, if desired. Serve cold or at room temperature.
Enjoy this Smoky Corn Salad as a flavorful accompaniment to your favorite grilled dishes or as a refreshing standalone salad!
