ZESTY LIME DRESSING GRILLED CORN SALAD
Zesty Lime Dressing Grilled Corn Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that captures the flavors of summer. Featuring sweet, smoky grilled corn kernels tossed with juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy avocado, red onion, and fresh cilantro, this salad is a feast for the senses. The highlight is the zesty lime dressing, which combines lime juice, olive oil, garlic, and a hint of chili for a tangy and slightly spicy finish. Perfect for barbecues, picnics, or as a side dish for any meal, this salad is both nutritious and delicious.
INGREDIENTS:
GRILLED CORN SALAD
4 large ears of corn, shucked
1 cup cherry tomatoes, sliced
1 cup chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 cup bell peppers, chopped
1 large avocado, peeled and sliced
¼ cup fresh cilantro, with the stems removed, chopped
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp pepper
ZESTY LIME DRESSING
4 large limes, juiced
1 Tbsp apple cider vinegar
¼ tsp cumin powder
¼ tsp chili powder
1 tsp maple syrup, optional
¼ tsp garlic powder, optional
INSTRUCTIONS:
In a bowl combine the zesty lime dressing ingredients and whisk. Place the dressing in the refrigerator to chill.
Heat your grill or grill pan on high heat. Once warm, grill your corn for 5 minutes, flip, and cook for an additional 5 minutes or until the corn is slightly charred and tender.
Cut the kernels off the cob and place the corn in a large bowl. Add the cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, avocado, chickpeas, cilantro, salt, and pepper.
Pour the lime dressing on the veggies and toss. Taste salad and add additional seasoning (salt, pepper, and cilantro).
Place the Grilled Corn Salad in the refrigerator for 20 minutes to chill. Divide into bowls and serve.
NOTES:
Grilling the Corn: For the best flavor, grill the corn until it’s lightly charred. If fresh corn isn’t available, you can use canned or frozen corn, though the grilling step adds a nice smoky flavor.
Dressing Variations: Add a teaspoon of honey for a touch of sweetness or a bit of cumin for extra depth. Adjust the amount of chili to suit your spice preference.
Avocado Tips: Add the avocado just before serving to prevent it from browning. Toss the avocado in a little lime juice to keep it fresh longer.
Additional Ingredients: Black beans or crumbled feta cheese make great additions to this salad, adding more texture and protein.
Serving Suggestions: Serve this salad as a side dish with grilled meats or as a topping for tacos. It’s also delicious on its own as a light, refreshing meal.
Storage: Best enjoyed fresh, but you can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. If making ahead, add the avocado just before serving.
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories: Approximately 200 kcal
Protein: 4g
Carbohydrates: 25g
Fat: 11g
Fiber: 5g
Sodium: 150mg
Sugars: 5g
Nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes used. Adjustments like reducing the olive oil or adding more vegetables can alter the nutritional content.