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Charred Corn Salad with Cotija

Charred sweet corn tossed with crumbly cotija cheese, lime, cilantro, and a touch of chili powder. A trendy, fresh side that captures the essence of street corn.

20 minEasyServes 4220 cal/serving

SouthwesternSaladStovetopVegetarianGluten-Free

Ingredients

  • 4 cups fresh corn kernels (about 4 ears)
  • 4 oz cotija cheese, crumbled
  • 3 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/4 tsp chili powder
  • 1/2 tsp kosher salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions

  1. 1

    Heat a large cast-iron skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat until very hot.

  2. 2

    Add 4 cups fresh corn kernels (about 4 ears) to the dry skillet and cook without stirring for 3-4 minutes until kernels begin to char.

  3. 3

    Stir and cook for another 3-4 minutes until most kernels show brown char marks.

  4. 4

    Transfer charred corn to a bowl. Add 4 oz cotija cheese, crumbled, 3 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro, 2 tbsp fresh lime juice, 2 tbsp olive oil, 1/4 tsp chili powder, 1/2 tsp kosher salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper.

  5. 5

    Toss gently to combine, being careful not to break up the cotija too much.

  6. 6

    Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve at room temperature or chilled.

Questions

Can I make Charred Corn Salad with Cotija dairy-free?

Yes. The dairy in this entry is 4 oz cotija cheese, crumbled. Swap the cheese for a plant-based melting cheese (expect a milder flavor). The richness shifts slightly, but the method does not change.

How long does Charred Corn Salad with Cotija keep?

Dressed, it is best the day it is made. Keep the components separate and refrigerated and they hold about two days; dress just before serving.

Can I halve or double Charred Corn Salad with Cotija?

Yes. As written it serves 4. Every ingredient in this entry carries precomputed half and double quantities, and the app's batch dial rewrites them inside each step. When doubling on the stovetop, use your widest pan or work in two batches so the food sears instead of steaming.

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