Grilled Corn Salad with Jalapeno Dressing
Try this Grilled Corn Salad with Jalapeno Dressing recipe
Try this Grilled Corn Salad with Jalapeno Dressing recipe
- salt to taste
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 garlic clove
- 5 ears of corn shucked
- 3 cups greens (i used a spinach & arugula mix)
- 2 roasted red peppers diced
- 2 oz. goat cheese crumbled
- 1 jalapeno, seeds removed (i left half of the seeds i like a little spice)
- 3/4 cup fresh cilantro
- Carbohydrate 4.55073148642287 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Fat 2.41660166953731 g
- Fiber 0.899572878497454 g
- Protein 0.492789375020355 g
- Saturated Fat 0.324994583729431 g
- Serving Size 1 1 -8 (53g)
- Sodium 583.880932270584 mg
- Sugar 3.65115860792542 g
- Trans Fat 0.149514250079115 g
- Calories 41 calories
Step-by-step
- Heat grill to medium heat, about 300-350 degrees.
- To a food processor add, jalapeno, fresh cilantro, garlic clove, lime juice, red wine vinegar, and ground cumin. Blend until cilantro and jalapeno are minced.
- Add in the olive oil, honey, and salt, Blend until smooth and emulsified (the vinegar and oil no longer separate).
- Set aside.
- Add shucked corn directly to the grill.
- Grill each side until the corn is charred on all sides. (about 3-4 minutes per side)
- Using a knife, cut the kernels off the cob.
- Add the corn kernels to a bowl, along with greens, roasted red pepper, and goat cheese.
- Drizzle half of the dressing over the salad and toss.
- Serve.
A Simple Summer Salad: Grilled Corn with a Zesty Jalapeno Kick
Summer is my absolute favorite time of year, and nothing screams summer quite like fresh, grilled corn. This Grilled Corn Salad with Jalapeno Dressing is my go-to recipe for those warm evenings when you want something light, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make. As a busy working mom, I appreciate recipes that don't sacrifice taste for convenience, and this one perfectly hits the mark. The smoky char of the grilled corn perfectly complements the bright, zesty jalapeno dressing, creating a truly unforgettable flavor combination. It's a recipe that's both elegant enough for a dinner party and simple enough for a weeknight meal.
The beauty of this salad lies in its adaptability. Feel free to experiment with different greens – I love using a mix of spinach and arugula, but baby kale or romaine would work equally well. You can also adjust the amount of jalapeno to your preferred level of spiciness. If you're not a big fan of heat, simply remove all the seeds. For a creamier texture, consider adding some crumbled feta cheese instead of goat cheese, or a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt. The possibilities are endless! I often find myself adding leftover grilled chicken or shrimp to make it a heartier meal, perfect for a BBQ or picnic.
This salad is not only delicious, but also incredibly refreshing. The combination of sweet corn, spicy jalapeno, and tangy lime juice is a true taste sensation. It's the kind of dish that’s just as satisfying on its own as it is as a side to grilled meats or fish. The vibrant colors also make it a feast for the eyes, making it perfect for impressing guests or simply brightening up your own dinner table. I highly recommend making a double batch of the dressing, as it’s equally delicious as a marinade for chicken or fish, or as a dip for tortilla chips. Trust me on this one, you’ll be finding ways to use this incredible dressing on everything!
Beyond the Recipe: Summertime Memories
This salad often brings back memories of lazy summer afternoons spent with my family, grilling corn on the cob and enjoying the simple pleasure of good food and good company. The smell of grilling corn fills me with a sense of nostalgia, a reminder of carefree days and long summer nights. It’s a dish that effortlessly embodies the warmth and joy of summer. For me, cooking is more than just preparing a meal; it's about creating memories and sharing experiences with loved ones. This salad is a small but significant part of those cherished memories.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing for extra heat.
- Add some crunch: Toasted pepitas or sunflower seeds add a delightful crunch to the salad.
- Make it a meal: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or black beans for a more substantial dish.
- Get creative with greens: Experiment with different types of lettuce, kale, or even baby spinach.
- Adjust the dressing: Add more or less jalapeno to control the level of spiciness.
I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as I do. It's a perfect way to celebrate the flavors of summer and create lasting memories.
