Ingredients
Corn
- 6 ears fresh corn, husked (or 5 cups corn kernels)
- Butter or oil, for cooking (about 2 tablespoons)
- Kosher salt, to taste
Dressing and Salad
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ cup cotija cheese (plus more for garnish)
- ¼ cup fresh chopped cilantro (plus more for garnish)
- Zest and juice of one lime
- Tortilla chips, for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Corn Kernels: Heat a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Melt butter or oil in the skillet, then add the corn kernels. Cook, stirring every few minutes, until the corn is slightly charred and golden brown, about 8 to 10 minutes.
- Grill the Corn on the Cob: Alternatively, heat a grill or grill pan to medium-high. Brush the ears of corn with melted butter or oil and sprinkle with kosher salt. Grill the corn for 8 to 10 minutes, turning a quarter turn every couple of minutes, until evenly charred on all sides. Then, cut the kernels off the cob.
- Chill the Corn: Transfer the charred corn kernels to a bowl and place in the refrigerator to chill for 10 to 15 minutes. Cooling the corn helps the flavors meld in the salad.
- Make the Dressing: In a large bowl, combine the mayonnaise, chili powder, garlic powder, lime juice, lime zest, and a pinch of kosher salt. Stir well to create a creamy, flavorful dressing.
- Combine Corn and Dressing: Add the chilled corn kernels to the dressing, stirring until the corn is well coated.
- Add Cheese and Herbs: Mix in the chopped cilantro and cotija cheese until evenly distributed throughout the salad.
- Serve and Garnish: Spoon the salad into a serving dish and refrigerate until ready to serve. Garnish with additional cotija cheese, cilantro, and lime wedges. Serve with tortilla chips on the side for a delightful crunch.
Notes
- You can use frozen corn kernels if fresh corn is not available; just thaw and pat dry before cooking.
- Grilling the corn adds a smoky flavor, but pan-searing works well too.
- Adjust chili powder to taste for more or less heat.
- This salad pairs well with tacos, grilled meats, or as a stand-alone appetizer.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator and consume within 2 days for optimal freshness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mexican