Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh?

You can use frozen corn, though you'll miss some of the freshness and texture of corn on the cob. If using frozen, roast it in a hot skillet with a little oil until it gets some color, then cool before adding to the salad.

How can I make this salad dairy-free?

Simply omit the feta cheese or replace it with a dairy-free alternative. You could add some diced avocado for creaminess or some nutritional yeast for a slightly cheesy flavor.

Can I prepare this salad the day before serving?

Absolutely! This salad actually improves with a little time in the refrigerator as the flavors meld together. Just give it a quick stir before serving.

What's the best way to tell when corn is perfectly grilled?

Look for kernels that are plump and tender when pierced with a knife, with some charred spots for flavor. The corn should have bright yellow color (or whatever color your variety is) and shouldn't look dry or shriveled.

Grilled Corn Salad Recipe - LazyDayRecipes

Name: Grilled Corn Salad Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 6 ears of corn; 2 cups grape tomatoes, cut into thirds or fourths; ½ medium red onion, diced; 6-7 fresh basil leaves, chopped; 1 cup feta crumbles; 1½ tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin); ½ tablespoon white wine vinegar; ¾ teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper

This vibrant Grilled Corn Salad brings together the smoky sweetness of grilled corn with the fresh pop of tomatoes, the sharp bite of red onion, and the creamy tang of feta cheese. Perfect for summer gatherings, this colorful side dish comes together in just 20 minutes and requires minimal cooking. The combination of flavors creates a refreshing and satisfying salad that pairs beautifully with almost any main course.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Summer Simplicity: Showcases the best summer produce in one bowl, letting those natural flavors shine.
Perfect Make-Ahead Option: Tastes even better after the flavors have had time to meld together in the refrigerator.
No Oven Required: Keeps your kitchen cool on hot summer days with just a quick trip to the grill.
Versatile Side Dish: Works beautifully alongside grilled meats, fish, or as part of a picnic spread.
Crowd-Pleaser: The combination of sweet, salty, and tangy flavors appeals to almost everyone.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Corn: The star of the show! Grilling adds a wonderful smoky sweetness that elevates this salad to another level. Look for fresh corn with tight, green husks and golden silk.
Grape Tomatoes: These little gems add juicy bursts of flavor and beautiful color. Cut them into thirds or fourths to match the size of the corn kernels.
Red Onion: Provides a sharp bite and gorgeous purple color. Dice it finely for the best texture balance in each bite.
Fresh Basil: Brings a wonderful aromatic quality and herbaceous flavor that pairs perfectly with the corn and tomatoes.
Feta Cheese: Adds a creamy, tangy element that balances the sweetness of the corn. Try to get a block and crumble it yourself for the best texture.
Olive Oil: Use extra virgin for its fruity notes that enhance the fresh vegetables.
White Wine Vinegar: Provides just the right amount of acidity to brighten all the flavors.
Salt and Pepper: Simple seasonings that bring everything together.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

Different Cheese Options

Swap the feta for crumbled goat cheese, fresh mozzarella pearls, or even shaved parmesan for a different flavor profile.

Add Some Heat

Incorporate a diced jalapeño or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for those who enjoy a spicy kick.

Protein Boost

Turn this side dish into a main course by adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or black beans.

Herb Swaps

No basil? Try fresh cilantro for a Mexican-inspired version, or mint for a refreshing twist.

Avocado Addition

Fold in diced avocado just before serving for extra creaminess and healthy fats.

How to Make Grilled Corn Salad

Step 1: Grill the Corn

Preheat your grill to medium heat. Lightly oil the grates or brush the corn with a bit of oil. Place the corn directly on the grill and cook for 7-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until you see some beautiful char marks and the kernels become tender. Remove from the grill and set aside until cool enough to handle.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

While the corn is cooling, dice your red onion into small pieces and cut the grape tomatoes into thirds or fourths. Chop the fresh basil leaves into thin ribbons or small pieces.

Step 3: Cut the Corn

Once the corn has cooled, stand each ear upright on your cutting board and carefully slice downward with a sharp knife to remove the kernels. Work your way around each ear, collecting all those beautiful kernels in a large bowl.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Add the prepared tomatoes, red onion, and basil to the bowl with the corn kernels. Crumble the feta cheese over the top of the vegetables.

Step 5: Dress the Salad

Drizzle the olive oil and white wine vinegar over the salad ingredients. Season with salt and pepper. Gently toss everything together until well combined, being careful not to break up the tomatoes too much.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Don’t Skip the Grilling: The char from the grill is what makes this salad special. If you don’t have access to a grill, you can char the corn in a cast-iron skillet.
Cool the Corn Completely: Make sure the corn is fully cooled before cutting it off the cob to prevent the feta from melting.
Slice Carefully: To cut corn kernels easily without them flying everywhere, place the ear in the center of a large bowl and cut downward.
Make it Ahead: This salad actually tastes better after the flavors have had a chance to meld together for a few hours.
Season to Taste: Always taste before serving and adjust the salt, pepper, or vinegar as needed.

How to Serve

Perfect Pairings

Serve this colorful salad alongside grilled chicken, steak, or fish for a complete summer meal. It’s particularly delightful with anything barbecued.

As a Starter

Spoon small portions into lettuce cups for an elegant appetizer at your next dinner party.

Part of a Spread

Include this salad in a summer buffet alongside pasta salads, slaws, and fresh fruit for a refreshing menu.

In a Wrap

Use leftovers as a filling for a vegetarian wrap with some greens and a smear of hummus.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop, making it even more delicious the next day.

Make Ahead Tips

Prepare this salad up to 24 hours in advance for the best flavor. If making ahead, you might want to reserve a bit of the basil to add just before serving for the freshest appearance.

Serving from the Refrigerator

No need to bring to room temperature – this salad is delicious served cold straight from the refrigerator, making it perfect for hot summer days.

FAQs

Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh?

You can use frozen corn, though you’ll miss some of the freshness and texture of corn on the cob. If using frozen, roast it in a hot skillet with a little oil until it gets some color, then cool before adding to the salad.
How can I make this salad dairy-free?

Simply omit the feta cheese or replace it with a dairy-free alternative. You could add some diced avocado for creaminess or some nutritional yeast for a slightly cheesy flavor.
Can I prepare this salad the day before serving?

Absolutely! This salad actually improves with a little time in the refrigerator as the flavors meld together. Just give it a quick stir before serving.
What’s the best way to tell when corn is perfectly grilled?

Look for kernels that are plump and tender when pierced with a knife, with some charred spots for flavor. The corn should have bright yellow color (or whatever color your variety is) and shouldn’t look dry or shriveled.

Final Thoughts

This Grilled Corn Salad is summer in a bowl – bright, fresh, and bursting with flavor. I love how the smoky sweetness of the grilled corn plays against the tangy feta and fresh herbs. It’s one of those dishes that feels special enough for company but is simple enough for weeknight dinners. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or just looking for a delicious way to use fresh summer produce, give this recipe a try. Your taste buds will thank you!