Grilled Corn & Tomato Salad

Charred summer corn meets ripe tomatoes in a bright grilled salad that celebrates peak-season produce. Smoky-sweet kernels mingle with basil, lime, and crumbled cotija for a fresh, colorful lunch.

Serves 4 · 15 min prep · 10 min cook

Estimate for one serving

• 260 cal
• 8g protein
• 28g carbs
• 14g fat
• 5g fiber

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Ingredients

• 4 large fresh corn ears
• 1.5 lb ripe tomatoes (heirloom or vine)
• 1 large red bell pepper
• 1/2 cup packed fresh basil leaves
• 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 1.5 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 1 small garlic clove
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1/2 cup crumbled cotija or feta
• 1 fresh lime

Instructions

1. 1Preheat a gas or charcoal grill to medium-high heat, about 400°F. Husk the corn and remove the silk, then lightly brush the ears with a little of the olive oil.
2. 2Place the corn directly on the grates and grill, turning every 2 to 3 minutes, until kernels are tender and lightly charred in spots, about 8 to 10 minutes total. Transfer to a cutting board to cool slightly.
3. 3While the corn cools, core the tomatoes and cut them into bite-size wedges or chunks. Dice the red bell pepper into small pieces roughly the size of a corn kernel.
4. 4Stand each ear of corn upright in a large bowl and slice downward with a sharp knife to remove the kernels in strips; discard the cobs.
5. 5Mince the garlic finely and add it to the bowl with the corn, tomatoes, and diced pepper. Tear the basil leaves into the mixture.
6. 6Drizzle the remaining olive oil and the red wine vinegar over the salad. Season with the kosher salt and black pepper, then toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
7. 7Squeeze the juice of half the lime over the top and toss once more. Taste and add more lime or salt if the tomatoes need brightening.
8. 8Scatter the crumbled cotija or feta over the salad just before serving. Serve immediately at room temperature or chill for up to 4 hours for a work-friendly pack; the flavors improve slightly as it sits.