Fresh Corn Lime Cotija Salad (Printable Version)
Crunchy corn, sweet peppers, and Cotija cheese mingle in a zesty lime dressing for a refreshing, vibrant salad.
# What You'll Need:
→ Salad Components
01 -
4 large ears fresh corn, kernels removed (about 3 cups, or 2 cans (15 oz) drained corn)
02 -
1 1/2 cups diced bell peppers, red and green
03 -
1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
04 -
1 cup English cucumber, diced
05 -
1/2 cup finely diced red onion
06 -
1/3 cup roughly chopped fresh cilantro
07 -
3/4 cup crumbled Cotija cheese (or Queso Fresco, Feta, Mozzarella, or Parmesan as alternatives)
→ Dressing
08 -
3 tablespoons avocado oil or extra virgin olive oil
09 -
1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice (or lemon juice)
10 -
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
11 -
1 tablespoon honey
12 -
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
13 -
1 teaspoon kosher salt
14 -
1 teaspoon dried parsley
15 -
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
16 -
1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
17 -
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
18 -
1/4 teaspoon chili powder
# Step-by-Step Guide:
01 -
Combine avocado oil, lime juice, red wine vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, dried parsley, black pepper, cumin, garlic powder, and chili powder in a container with a tight-fitting lid. Shake vigorously until the mixture is fully emulsified. Refrigerate while assembling the salad to intensify flavors.
02 -
Bring a large pot of water to a rapid boil and season with approximately 2 tablespoons kosher salt. Add the ears of corn and boil for exactly 4 minutes to retain a crisp, sweet texture. Immediately drain and rinse under cold water to halt cooking. Let cool completely.
03 -
Place each cooled ear of corn flat on a cutting board. With a sharp knife, carefully slice downward to separate the kernels from the cobs. Transfer kernels to a large mixing bowl.
04 -
Dice bell peppers, halve cherry tomatoes, dice cucumber, finely dice red onion, and roughly chop cilantro. Add all prepared vegetables and herbs to the bowl with corn.
05 -
Add crumbled Cotija cheese to the bowl. Shake the dressing once more, then drizzle evenly over the salad. Gently toss until everything is uniformly coated and well combined.
06 -
Serve the salad immediately for best texture and flavor, or cover and refrigerate for up to 1 day. For optimal freshness, reserve adding the dressing and cheese until just before serving if making ahead.
# Additional Notes:
01 -
For optimal crunch, avoid overcooking the corn and dress the salad just before serving.