Easy Grilled Corn Salad with Mozzarella Recipe

This Easy Grilled Corn Salad with Mozzarella offers a fresh and flavorful combination perfect for warm weather meals and vibrant summer gatherings. Juicy grilled corn pairs beautifully with creamy mozzarella, tossed with crisp vegetables and a zesty dressing, making it a light yet satisfying dish that comes together effortlessly. Whether you’re hosting friends or looking for a quick, colorful side, this Grilled Corn Salad with Mozzarella will quickly become your go-to recipe for a burst of taste and texture.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fresh and vibrant flavors: The combination of grilled corn and creamy mozzarella creates a refreshing and unique taste.
• Simple ingredients: Uses everyday items you likely already have in your kitchen, keeping it fuss-free.
• Quick preparation: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it a perfect choice for spontaneous meals.
• Versatile dish: Serves well as a side or a light main course, adaptable for any occasion.
• Colorful presentation: Bright yellow corn and fresh green herbs bring an inviting pop of color to your table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Grilled Corn Salad with Mozzarella plays a key role in the overall flavor and texture, combining to create a simple yet impressive dish that’s both balanced and delicious.

• Fresh corn on the cob: Provides a smoky sweetness when grilled and adds texture.
• Shredded mozzarella cheese (vegetal): Adds a creamy, mild richness to contrast the corn.
• Cherry tomatoes: Bring acidity and juiciness with a vibrant red color.
• Red onion: Adds a subtle sharpness and crunch.
• Fresh basil: Offers aromatic, herbal notes that brighten the salad.
• Extra virgin olive oil: Binds the ingredients together and adds smoothness.
• Apple cider vinegar: Introduces a tangy zing to balance the sweetness.
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance all flavors.

Variations for Grilled Corn Salad with Mozzarella

Feel free to personalize this recipe to suit your preferences or dietary needs. It’s incredibly easy to swap or add ingredients, giving you endless ways to enjoy this vibrant salad.

• Avocado addition: Mix in diced avocado for creaminess and healthy fats.
• Spicy kick: Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of chili flakes for heat.
• Vegan twist: Substitute mozzarella with a plant-based cheese alternative.
• Herb swaps: Try cilantro or mint instead of basil for a different herbal flavor.
• Smoked turkey bacon bites: Top with crispy smoked turkey bacon for a savory crunch.

How to Make Grilled Corn Salad with Mozzarella

Step 1: Prepare and Grill the Corn

Start by husking the fresh corn and lightly brushing the ears with olive oil to prevent sticking. Grill the corn over medium-high heat for about 10 minutes, turning regularly until the kernels are slightly charred and fragrant. This step enhances the natural sweetness and adds a smoky depth to the salad.

Step 2: Cut and Chop the Vegetables

While the corn is grilling, halve the cherry tomatoes, finely dice the red onion, and roughly chop fresh basil leaves. These ingredients contribute fresh textures and vibrant colors to the salad.

Step 3: Combine the Ingredients

Once the corn has cooled slightly, cut the kernels off the cob and place them in a mixing bowl. Add the tomatoes, red onion, basil, and shredded mozzarella cheese (vegetal). Toss everything gently to combine.

Step 4: Whisk the Dressing and Season

In a small bowl, whisk together extra virgin olive oil, apple cider vinegar, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss well to coat all ingredients evenly, infusing every bite with balanced flavor.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Transfer the salad to a serving dish, garnish with a few extra basil leaves if desired, and enjoy immediately or chilled. This salad shines best when fresh but can be refrigerated for a few hours before serving.

Pro Tips for Making Grilled Corn Salad with Mozzarella

• Use fresh, in-season corn: It makes the biggest difference in flavor and sweetness.
• Don’t overmix: Gently toss to keep the mozzarella from breaking down.
• Let the corn cool: Prevents the cheese from melting and maintains texture contrast.
• Adjust acidity: Tweak the apple cider vinegar to your taste for a perfectly balanced zing.
• Grill with care: Keep an eye on the corn to avoid burning, aiming for even char marks.

How to Serve Grilled Corn Salad with Mozzarella

Garnishes

Sprinkle chopped fresh herbs like basil or parsley on top for extra aroma and a pop of color. A few lemon or lime wedges on the side add a bright citrus boost that guests can squeeze over the salad for enhanced freshness.

Side Dishes

This salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, smoked turkey slices, or light seafood dishes. It’s also a standout addition to any summer picnic or barbecue, balancing richer mains with its crisp and juicy profile.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the salad in hollowed-out bell pepper halves or over a bed of mixed greens to turn it into an attractive centerpiece. You can also layer it in a clear glass bowl showcasing all the colorful ingredients, making it visually enticing for guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to two days, though the textures are best enjoyed within the first day to maintain the crispness of the vegetables.

Freezing

This salad is best enjoyed fresh and does not freeze well due to the delicate textures of fresh corn and mozzarella. Freezing can cause the cheese and vegetables to become watery and lose their appealing consistency.

Reheating

If you prefer the salad slightly warmed, gently reheat it in a pan over low heat just until the mozzarella softens, though it is most delicious served cold or at room temperature. Reheating is optional and generally not recommended to preserve freshness.

FAQs

Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh for this salad?

While fresh corn provides the best flavor and texture, you can use thawed frozen corn if fresh isn’t available just sauté it briefly to replicate the grilled taste.

Is shredded mozzarella cheese (vegetal) the best cheese for this salad?

Shredded mozzarella cheese (vegetal) works beautifully thanks to its mild creaminess, but you can experiment with other soft cheeses like fresh ricotta or a plant-based alternative for varying taste.

How do I make this salad vegan-friendly?

Substitute the shredded mozzarella cheese (vegetal) with a vegan cheese alternative and omit any animal-based additions to keep the dish fully plant-based without sacrificing flavor.

Can I prepare the salad in advance for a party?

Yes, prep the ingredients separately and combine them just before serving to keep everything fresh and crunchy for your guests.

What dressing pairs best with Grilled Corn Salad with Mozzarella?

A simple olive oil and apple cider vinegar dressing works perfectly, but feel free to add a touch of honey or mustard for extra flavor complexity.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a bright, easy-to-make dish that packs incredible flavor and is sure to impress, this Grilled Corn Salad with Mozzarella will be your new favorite. Its perfect balance of smoky, sweet, and creamy notes makes it a delightful addition to any table. Go ahead and try it it’s a refreshing way to celebrate fresh ingredients and the joy of simple cooking!

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