Grilled Corn And Mozzarella Salad
Grilled Corn & Mozzarella Salad is the perfect refreshing dish that can brighten your summer meals. This salad combines the sweet, smoky taste of grilled corn with cherry tomatoes and creamy mozzarella for a delightful side or light lunch option. With minimal prep time, it’s both quick and easy to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy days.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
If you’re looking for a salad that is not only delicious but also visually appealing and healthy, this Grilled Corn & Mozzarella Salad ticks all the boxes. The combination of fresh ingredients creates a burst of flavors that are both satisfying and refreshing. The sweet, charred corn perfectly complements the juicy tomatoes and creamy mozzarella, while the balsamic glaze adds a tangy finish. Plus, it requires minimal cooking and can be served warm or cold, making it versatile for various occasions.
Pro Tips for Making Grilled Corn & Mozzarella Salad
- Select the Best Corn: Look for fresh, sweet corn with bright green husks and golden silk. The kernels should be plump and well-filled.
- Grill Techniques: For best results, preheat your grill to medium-high. This ensures a nice char on the corn, enhancing its sweetness.
- Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh mozzarella instead of pre-packaged to achieve a creamier texture.
- Customizable: Feel free to add other ingredients like avocado, bell peppers, or even grilled chicken to make it more filling.
- Storage: The salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two days; however, add the balsamic glaze just before serving to keep the salad fresh.
Ingredients
Here’s what you will need to whip up this delicious salad:
- 4 ears fresh corn, husked
- 1 tablespoon olive oil for grilling
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup fresh mozzarella pearls
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped or torn
- 2 tablespoons red onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional: 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice for extra brightness
Directions
Step 1: Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Properly preheating is key to achieving that signature grilled flavor and texture of the corn. An adequately heated surface will allow the corn to cook evenly and get those beautiful char marks.
Step 2: Brush the husked corn with olive oil to help it grill evenly and enhance the flavor. Make sure to cover the kernels thoroughly for the best taste.
Step 3: Place the corn on the grill and grill for 8 to 10 minutes, turning occasionally. You want to achieve a golden-brown char on all sides, which enriches the flavor and adds a delicious smoky note.
Step 4: Once grilled, remove the corn from the heat and let it cool slightly. This brief cooling period makes it easier to handle without burning your fingers.
Step 5: Using a sharp knife, cut the grilled corn kernels off the cob and place them in a large bowl. Ensure you get as many kernels as possible while removing the cobs.
Step 6: Add the cherry tomatoes, mozzarella pearls, basil, and red onion to the bowl with the corn. These ingredients add a colorful and flavorful profile to your salad.
Step 7: Drizzle the mixture with balsamic glaze and lemon juice if using. This tangy dressing ties together all the flavors beautifully, making each bite delightful.
Step 8: Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning based on your preference to enhance the overall flavor.
Step 9: Toss everything gently to combine, ensuring each ingredient is well distributed. Serve the salad immediately as a fresh summer side or a light lunch.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh for this salad?
Yes, you can use frozen corn. However, grilling fresh corn enhances its sweetness and flavor. If using frozen corn, be sure to thaw and, if possible, char it in a hot pan to achieve similar results.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
While the salad is best served fresh, you can prepare the corn and chop the other ingredients ahead of time. Just bring everything together with the dressing right before serving to ensure freshness.
Is there a substitute for mozzarella pearls?
If you cannot find mozzarella pearls, you can cut fresh mozzarella into small cubes or use feta cheese for a different flavor profile.
Can I add protein to make it a full meal?
Absolutely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas can be added to this salad to turn it into a complete meal.
What can I serve this salad with?
This Grilled Corn & Mozzarella Salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats, fish, or as part of a buffet spread with other light dishes. It makes an excellent side for summer barbecues!
Conclusion
Grilled Corn & Mozzarella Salad is a stunning dish that brings summer flavors to your table. Its vibrant colors and fresh ingredients offer a simple yet satisfying experience that could easily become a staple in your meal rotation. With a few simple steps, you can create a salad that’s packed with flavor and nutrition. Serve it at your next gathering or enjoy it as a light lunch, and let the delightful combination of ingredients work their magic!
