Name: Grilled Corn Salad with Feta Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 6
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 6 large corn ears; ¼ cup red onion; 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; ½ cup feta; fresh mint; ¼ tsp kosher salt; black pepper

This vibrant grilled corn salad with feta is the perfect summer dish, bursting with flavors and textures. The smoky charred corn pairs beautifully with the tangy feta, while the fresh mint adds a refreshing touch.

Photos of Grilled Corn Salad with Feta Recipe

While most of the ingredients in this recipe are common, fresh mint might not always be available in everyone's pantry. It's essential to use fresh mint for its vibrant flavor. Also, feta cheese might require a special trip to the dairy section.

Ingredients For Grilled Corn Salad With Feta

Corn: Fresh corn ears, perfect for grilling and adding a smoky flavor to the salad.

Red onion: Adds a sharp, tangy bite that complements the sweetness of the corn.

Extra virgin olive oil: Provides a rich, fruity base for the dressing, enhancing all the flavors.

Feta: Brings a creamy, salty element that contrasts beautifully with the sweet corn.

Mint: Fresh mint leaves add a refreshing, aromatic note to the salad.

Kosher salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the natural flavors of the ingredients.

Black pepper: Adds a subtle heat and enhances the overall taste.

One reader, Beau Bray says:

This grilled corn salad with feta is a summer delight! The charred corn adds a smoky flavor, perfectly balanced by the tangy feta and fresh mint. Quick to prepare and absolutely delicious, it's a must-try for any barbecue.

Beau Bray

Key Techniques for Making Grilled Corn Salad with Feta

How to husk corn: Remove the outer leaves and silk from the corn ears. How to grill corn: Set the grill to medium-high heat, place the corn on the grill, and turn often until charred in spots. How to cut kernels off the cob: Hold the cob vertically on a cutting board and slice downward to remove the kernels. How to chop red onion: Peel the onion, cut it in half, and then finely dice it. How to crumble feta: Use your hands or a fork to break the feta into small pieces. How to chop fresh mint: Remove the leaves from the stems, stack them, roll them up, and slice thinly.

How To Make Grilled Corn Salad with Feta

Munch on this sweet and salt grilled corn salad! It’s made tastier with feta and refreshing with chopped mint for a more appetizing side.

Preparation: 5 minutes

Cooking: 15 minutes

Total: 20 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

6large corn ears,or 7 medium
¼cupred onion,chopped
2tbspextra virgin olive oil
½cupfeta,crumbled
fresh mint,or cilantro, or parsley, chopped
¼tspkosher salt
black pepper,to taste

Instructions

Set the grill to medium-high. Husk the corn.
Grill the corn for 10 to 12 minutes, turning often, until charred in spots.
Transfer to a cutting board and set aside to cool. Cut the kernels off the cobb.
Put the corn, red onion and cheese in a medium salad bowl. Drizzle with the olive oil, then toss.
Add the mint, then toss again. Taste, then add salt and pepper.
Serve, and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 199.68kcal
Fat: 9.11g
Saturated Fat: 2.96g
Trans Fat: 0.01g
Monounsaturated Fat: 4.48g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.25g
Carbohydrates: 28.20g
Fiber: 3.10g
Sugar: 9.75g
Protein: 6.58g
Cholesterol: 11.13mg
Sodium: 214.92mg
Calcium: 68.33mg
Potassium: 410.30mg
Iron: 0.91mg
Vitamin A: 28.63µg
Vitamin C: 10.22mg

Pro Tip for Perfecting Your Grilled Corn Salad

For an extra layer of flavor, try brushing the corn with a bit of olive oil before grilling. This will help the corn char more evenly and add a subtle richness to the salad.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Salad

Pre-cut the ingredients: Dice the red onion and chop the fresh mint ahead of time to streamline the process.

Use pre-crumbled feta: Opt for pre-crumbled feta to save the effort of crumbling it yourself.

Grill in batches: If you have a smaller grill, cook the corn ears in batches to ensure even charring.

Cool corn quickly: Place the grilled corn in the fridge for a few minutes to speed up the cooling process before cutting the kernels off.

Prepare dressing in advance: Mix the olive oil, kosher salt, and black pepper ahead of time to quickly drizzle over the salad.

Substitute Ingredients For Grilled Corn Salad with Feta Recipe

corn ears - Substitute with frozen corn kernels: If fresh corn is not available, frozen corn kernels can be grilled or roasted to achieve a similar flavor and texture.
red onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots have a milder flavor and can provide a similar crunch and sweetness to the salad.
extra virgin olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a high smoke point and a neutral flavor, making it a good alternative for grilling.
feta - Substitute with goat cheese: Goat cheese has a similar tangy flavor and creamy texture, making it a suitable replacement for feta.
fresh mint - Substitute with fresh basil: Fresh basil can provide a different but complementary herbaceous note to the salad.
kosher salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used in the same quantity and will provide a similar level of seasoning.
black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a slightly different flavor profile but can still add the necessary heat and depth to the salad.

Presentation Tips for a Stunning Grilled Corn Salad

Grill the corn perfectly: Ensure the corn is evenly charred in spots to bring out its natural sweetness and smoky flavor. This will add a delightful contrast to the other ingredients.
Finely dice the red onion: Cut the red onion into very small, uniform pieces to ensure a balanced distribution of flavor throughout the salad.
Crumble the feta cheese: Use your hands to crumble the feta into small, bite-sized pieces. This will allow the cheese to meld seamlessly with the other ingredients.
Chiffonade the fresh mint: Roll the fresh mint leaves into a tight cylinder and slice them thinly to create delicate ribbons. This technique will enhance the visual appeal and ensure the mint is evenly distributed.
Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil: Drizzle the salad with a premium extra virgin olive oil to add a rich, fruity undertone that complements the other flavors.
Season judiciously with kosher salt and black pepper: Taste the salad before adding kosher salt and black pepper. Adjust the seasoning to enhance the natural flavors without overpowering them.
Plate with precision: Arrange the salad in a shallow, wide bowl or plate. Create a slight mound in the center for a more visually appealing presentation.
Garnish with extra fresh mint leaves: Add a few whole fresh mint leaves on top of the salad for a pop of color and a hint of freshness.
Serve immediately: Present the salad promptly to maintain the crispness of the corn and the vibrancy of the fresh mint.

Storage and Freezing Instructions for Grilled Corn Salad

Let the grilled corn salad cool to room temperature before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep fresh for up to 3-4 days.
If you want to prepare the salad in advance, you can grill the corn and store it separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, toss the corn with the remaining ingredients.
For optimal texture and flavor, add the feta cheese and fresh mint just before serving the salad.
If you have leftover salad, you can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, keep in mind that the texture of the grilled corn may soften slightly over time.
This salad is best enjoyed fresh and is not recommended for freezing, as the texture and quality of the ingredients will deteriorate after thawing.

How To Reheat Leftover Grilled Corn Salad

Reheat the grilled corn salad in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through and the feta cheese is slightly melted. This method helps to maintain the texture of the corn and prevents the salad from becoming soggy.
For a quick and easy reheating option, microwave the grilled corn salad in a microwave-safe bowl for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through. Be careful not to overheat the salad, as the feta cheese may become rubbery.
If you prefer a cold salad, simply remove the grilled corn salad from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the olive oil to become more fluid.
For a fresh twist, add some chopped tomatoes, cucumbers, or avocado to the leftover grilled corn salad. The added vegetables will provide a crisp texture and bright flavors to the dish.
If the grilled corn salad seems dry after reheating, drizzle a small amount of extra virgin olive oil or lemon juice over the top and toss gently to refresh the flavors and add moisture.

Interesting Trivia About Grilled Corn Salad

A fun fact about this grilled corn salad is that the feta cheese adds a tangy and creamy texture, which complements the sweetness of the grilled corn.

Is Making Grilled Corn Salad at Home Cost-Effective?

This grilled corn salad with feta is quite cost-effective. The main ingredients, corn, red onion, and mint, are inexpensive and readily available. Feta cheese and extra virgin olive oil add a touch of luxury without breaking the bank. For a household of 4, the approximate cost is around $10-$12. Overall Verdict: 8/10.

Is This Grilled Corn Salad Healthy?

This grilled corn salad with feta recipe is a relatively healthy dish, offering several nutritional benefits:

Corn provides fiber, vitamins (B and C), and minerals (potassium, magnesium, and zinc)
Red onion contains antioxidants and may help lower blood sugar levels
Olive oil is a healthy fat that can reduce inflammation and improve heart health
Feta cheese is a good source of protein and calcium
Mint is rich in antioxidants and has potential digestive benefits

However, there are a few aspects that could be improved to make the recipe even healthier:

Use a reduced-fat feta cheese to lower the overall fat and calorie content
Add more vegetables to increase the nutrient density of the salad, such as:
- Cherry tomatoes
- Diced cucumber
- Bell peppers
Replace half of the olive oil with fresh lemon juice to reduce the calorie content and add a bright, citrusy flavor
Experiment with using other herbs alongside or instead of mint, such as basil, cilantro, or parsley, to vary the antioxidant profile
Consider adding a lean protein source, like grilled chicken or shrimp, to make the salad a more complete meal

By incorporating these changes, you can enhance the overall nutritional value of the grilled corn salad while maintaining its delicious taste and texture. The salad will provide a balance of complex carbohydrates, healthy fats, lean proteins, and a variety of vitamins and minerals, making it a nourishing and satisfying dish for any meal.

Editor's Take on This Delightful Grilled Corn Salad

This grilled corn salad with feta is a delightful summer dish that balances smoky, sweet, and tangy flavors. The charred corn adds depth, while the red onion provides a sharp contrast. Feta cheese brings a creamy, salty element that complements the fresh mint's brightness. The olive oil ties everything together, enhancing the overall richness. A touch of kosher salt and black pepper rounds out the flavors perfectly. This salad is simple yet sophisticated, making it an excellent choice for barbecues or light lunches.

Enhance Your Grilled Corn Salad with Feta Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Imagine the caramelized edges of sweet potatoes mingling with the smoky flavors of your grilled corn salad. A touch of cinnamon and honey will elevate this side to a whole new level of deliciousness.

Garlic Herb Shrimp Skewers: Garlic Herb Shrimp Skewers: Picture succulent shrimp marinated in a blend of garlic, lemon, and fresh herbs, grilled to perfection. These skewers will add a delightful seafood twist to your meal.

Watermelon Feta Salad: Watermelon Feta Salad: Juicy watermelon cubes paired with crumbled feta, fresh basil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. This refreshing salad will complement the corn salad beautifully, adding a burst of sweetness and tang.

Spicy Black Bean Soup: Spicy Black Bean Soup: A hearty bowl of black beans simmered with tomatoes, chilies, and cumin. This soup brings a comforting warmth and a kick of spice that pairs wonderfully with the fresh flavors of the corn salad.

Grilled Peaches with Honey: Grilled Peaches with Honey: Sweet peaches grilled until they have beautiful char marks, then drizzled with honey and a sprinkle of cinnamon. This simple yet elegant dessert will round off your meal with a touch of natural sweetness.

Similar Recipes to Try If You Love This Salad

Mexican Street Corn Salad: Craving a zesty twist? This salad combines grilled corn, cotija cheese, cilantro, and a tangy lime-mayo dressing. Perfect for a summer BBQ!

Mediterranean Quinoa Salad: A refreshing mix of quinoa, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, kalamata olives, and feta cheese. Drizzle with a lemon-oregano vinaigrette for a burst of flavor.

Avocado Corn Salsa: Combine grilled corn with diced avocado, red onion, cilantro, and lime juice for a creamy, tangy salsa that pairs perfectly with tortilla chips.

Southwestern Black Bean Salad: Mix black beans, grilled corn, bell peppers, red onion, and cilantro. Toss with a cumin-lime dressing for a hearty, flavorful dish.

Tomato Basil Mozzarella Salad: A classic Caprese salad with a twist! Use heirloom tomatoes, fresh basil, mozzarella, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. Simple, yet elegant.

Why trust this Grilled Corn Salad with Feta Recipe:

This grilled corn salad with feta recipe is a must-try for its simplicity and burst of flavors. The charred corn adds a smoky sweetness, perfectly complemented by the tangy feta and fresh mint. The red onion provides a subtle bite, while the extra virgin olive oil ties everything together with a rich, smooth finish. This dish is not only delicious but also quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for any occasion. Trust this recipe for a delightful, crowd-pleasing salad.

Want to share your experience making this Grilled Corn Salad with Feta or have any tips to enhance the recipe? Join the discussion in the Recipe Sharing forum!

FAQ:

Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh corn?

Yes, you can use frozen corn if fresh corn isn't available. Just make sure to thaw and pat it dry before grilling or sautéing it in a pan to get some char.

How long can I store the grilled corn salad in the fridge?

You can store the grilled corn salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors might meld together even more, but the mint might lose some of its freshness.

Can I add other vegetables to this salad?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other veggies like cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or avocado to give the salad more color and flavor.

What can I use instead of feta cheese?

If you're not a fan of feta or need a substitute, you can use goat cheese, queso fresco, or even a mild blue cheese for a different flavor profile.

Is there a way to make this salad vegan?

Yes, you can make this salad vegan by omitting the feta cheese or using a plant-based cheese alternative. The rest of the ingredients are already vegan-friendly.