Irresistible Grilled Corn Salad with Mozzarella

If you’re searching for a fresh, vibrant, and utterly delightful dish perfect for summer or any easy healthy meal, look no further than this Grilled Corn Salad with Mozzarella. This salad brings together the sweet smokiness of grilled corn kernels with the creamy, mild richness of shredded mozzarella cheese (vegetal), layered with bright herbs and zesty dressing, creating a symphony of flavors in every bite. It’s not just a salad it’s a celebration of summer’s best produce, ready to brighten up your table and excite your taste buds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Ingredients: Uses fresh, easy-to-find ingredients that pack a flavorful punch without fuss.
• Healthy & Light: Full of fresh vegetables and cheese, making it a nourishing yet satisfying choice.
• Versatile Dish: Works great as a side, an appetizer, or even a main for light meals.
• Perfect for Gatherings: A crowd-pleaser that looks as good as it tastes, ideal for BBQs and picnics.
• Quick to Prepare: Takes less than 30 minutes from start to finish, so you can enjoy it anytime.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient plays an essential role in crafting this wonderful Grilled Corn Salad with Mozzarella. The fresh corn provides a sweet, smoky crunch while the shredded mozzarella cheese (vegetal) adds creaminess. Herbs and tangy dressing bring brightness and deepen the flavor profile, making every bite balanced and delicious.

• Fresh Corn on the Cob: Choose ripe ears with plump kernels for the best natural sweetness.
• Shredded Mozzarella Cheese (Vegetal): Adds a smooth, creamy texture that melts delightfully with the warm corn.
• Cherry Tomatoes: Halved to provide juicy bursts and vibrant color contrast.
• Fresh Basil and Cilantro: These herbs brighten the dish with their aromatic freshness.
• Red Onion: Thinly sliced for a mild crunch and gentle sharpness.
• Lime Juice: Adds zesty acidity that balances sweetness and creaminess.
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Brings richness and helps marry all the flavors beautifully.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance the natural flavors.
• Optional Smoked Turkey Bacon: For a smoky, savory twist that complements the salad.

Variations for Grilled Corn Salad with Mozzarella

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable, so don’t hesitate to customize it based on what you have available, dietary preferences, or your personal taste. These simple swaps and additions keep the dish exciting and fresh every time you make it.

• Add Avocado: Creamy diced avocado makes the salad richer and adds healthy fats.
• Use Roasted Red Peppers: For a smoky-sweet flavor and beautiful color contrast.
• Swap Herbs: Try fresh mint or parsley if you’re looking for a different herbal note.
• Make it Spicy: Add finely chopped jalapeños or a pinch of chili flakes for heat.
• Protein Boost: Incorporate grilled chicken or smoked turkey slices to make it a full meal.

How to Make Grilled Corn Salad with Mozzarella

Step 1: Prepare the Corn

Preheat your grill or grill pan. Husk the corn and brush each ear lightly with olive oil. Place on the grill and cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until charred in spots and cooked through. Then, allow the corn to cool slightly before cutting the kernels off the cob with a sharp knife.

Step 2: Chop the Vegetables and Herbs

While the corn is grilling, halve the cherry tomatoes, thinly slice the red onion, and chop fresh basil and cilantro finely. This prep ensures a mix of textures and bursts of flavor throughout the salad.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients in a Bowl

In a large mixing bowl, gently toss together the grilled corn kernels, cherry tomatoes, red onion, chopped herbs, and shredded mozzarella cheese (vegetal). If you want to include smoked turkey bacon, cook it until crisp, crumble, and mix it in now.

Step 4: Dress the Salad

Whisk together fresh lime juice, extra virgin olive oil, salt, and pepper. Pour this dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine. The lime juice adds a refreshing tang that perfectly complements the sweetness of the corn and creaminess of the cheese.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the salad slightly warm or at room temperature to best appreciate its flavors and textures. It’s a perfect dish to share during warm weather or any time you crave a taste of summer.

Pro Tips for Making Grilled Corn Salad with Mozzarella

• Choose Fresh Corn: The quality of your corn makes a big difference; pick fresh, in-season ears for maximum sweetness.
• Don’t Overcook the Corn: Keep the kernels tender-crisp by grilling just until lightly charred.
• Opt for Room Temperature Ingredients: This helps the flavors meld beautifully in the salad.
• Use High-Quality Olive Oil: A fruity, fresh oil will elevate the salad’s taste greatly.
• Prepare Ahead: Make the dressing in advance to allow the flavors to develop fully.

How to Serve Grilled Corn Salad with Mozzarella

Garnishes

Top your salad with a sprinkle of extra fresh herbs like basil or cilantro, or add a few lemon or lime wedges on the side for an extra zesty kick just before serving.

Side Dishes

This vibrant salad pairs beautifully with grilled vegetables, crusty bread, or can be served alongside light proteins such as grilled fish or smoked turkey slices for a balanced meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For an impressive presentation, serve your salad in hollowed-out grilled corn cobs or colorful individual bowls garnished with microgreens. You can also layer it in clear glass jars for picnic or potluck-ready style.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best enjoyed within 2 days for peak freshness, as the mozzarella and corn flavors are most vibrant then.

Freezing

This salad is not ideal for freezing because the fresh vegetables and cheese can lose their texture and become watery. It’s better to enjoy it fresh or refrigerated for short-term storage.

Reheating

If you prefer your Grilled Corn Salad with Mozzarella warm, gently reheat it in a skillet over low heat. Avoid microwaving to maintain the salad’s texture and flavor integrity.

FAQs

Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh?

Frozen corn can be used in a pinch, but fresh corn grilled for that smoky flavor will give your salad the best taste and texture.

Is shredded mozzarella cheese (vegetal) the only cheese that works?

While shredded mozzarella cheese (vegetal) works beautifully for creaminess and mild flavor, you can experiment with fresh mozzarella pearls for a different texture, though keep in mind the recipe calls specifically for shredded.

Can I make this salad vegan?

Yes, simply replace the shredded mozzarella cheese (vegetal) with a vegan cheese alternative and omit the smoked turkey bacon if used.

What dressing works best for this salad?

The lime juice and olive oil dressing is classic, but you can also try a light vinaigrette with apple cider vinegar and a touch of honey for sweetness.

How long does the salad keep in the fridge?

The salad tastes freshest within 2 days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, as the vegetables begin to lose their crispness after that.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a fresh, colorful, and easy-to-make dish, the Grilled Corn Salad with Mozzarella is undoubtedly a winner. It’s bursting with flavor, texture, and wholesome ingredients that come together in perfect harmony. Whether you’re planning a sunny picnic, a quick weeknight dinner, or a shareable side for a gathering, this recipe is your go-to for deliciousness done right. Give it a try and watch it become a favorite in your recipe collection!

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