Creamy Grilled Corn & Cucumber Salad 🌽🥒
Description
Creamy Grilled Corn & Cucumber Salad is a refreshing, colorful, and flavor-packed side dish that combines sweet grilled corn, crisp cucumbers, and a creamy, tangy dressing. The smoky char from the grilled corn pairs beautifully with the cool crunch of cucumber, while fresh herbs and a creamy dressing tie everything together. This salad is perfect for summer cookouts, potlucks, meal prep, or as a light lunch.
Every bite delivers a delicious combination of sweet, savory, creamy, and fresh flavors. It comes together in under 30 minutes and can be served alongside grilled chicken, seafood, burgers, or tacos. Best of all, it’s easy to customize with your favorite vegetables and seasonings.
Servings
Serves: 4–6 people
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Ingredients
For the Salad
- 4 ears fresh corn, husks removed
- 2 medium cucumbers, diced
- ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro or parsley
- 2 tablespoons diced red bell pepper (optional)
For the Dressing
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup Greek yogurt or sour cream
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Equipment
- Grill or grill pan
- Mixing bowl
- Sharp knife
- Spoon
Instructions
Step 1: Grill the Corn
Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
Grill the corn for 8–10 minutes, turning occasionally until lightly charred on all sides.
Allow the corn to cool slightly.
Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables
Cut the kernels off the cobs and place them in a large bowl.
Add diced cucumbers, cilantro, and bell pepper.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together:
- Mayonnaise
- Greek yogurt
- Lime juice
- Garlic
- Chili powder
- Salt
- Black pepper
Mix until smooth.
Step 4: Assemble the Salad
Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss until evenly coated.
Refrigerate for 15 minutes before serving for the best flavor.
Serve chilled or slightly cool.
Notes
- Fresh corn gives the best flavor, but frozen grilled corn may be substituted.
- English cucumbers work well because they contain fewer seeds.
- Add avocado just before serving for extra creaminess.
Tips
✔ Don’t overcook the corn; slight charring adds the perfect smoky flavor.
✔ Chill the salad before serving.
✔ Garnish with extra cilantro and lime wedges.
✔ Add crumbled feta or cotija cheese for a delicious twist.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 240
- Protein: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fat: 14g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 290mg
Approximate values.
Health Benefits
- Rich in Fiber: Supports digestion and promotes fullness.
- Loaded with Vitamins: Corn and cucumbers provide vitamins A and C.
- Hydrating: Cucumbers contain high amounts of water.
- Contains Antioxidants: Colorful vegetables help fight inflammation.
- Balanced Side Dish: Offers a satisfying combination of healthy carbohydrates and fats.
Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. It can be refrigerated for up to 2 days.
Q: Can I use canned corn?
Yes, but grilled fresh corn provides the best flavor.
Q: Is this salad spicy?
No. The chili powder adds flavor rather than heat.
Q: What can I serve it with?
Grilled chicken, steak, seafood, tacos, burgers, or sandwiches.
Q: Can I make it lighter?
Yes. Replace the mayonnaise with additional Greek yogurt.