Grilled corn and tomato salad with basil and lime

This grilled corn and tomato salad combines the sweet, smoky flavors of charred corn with tangy tomatoes and fresh basil, all brightened with a lime dressing. It's a quick, refreshing dish perfect for summer gatherings or as a light meal.

27 Dec 2025
Cook time 25 min
Prep time 25 min

Ingredients:

6 tbsp olive oil
1 cup onion
2 tbsp fresh thyme
4 cups basil leaves
1/3 cup lime juice
1 dash black pepper
1 dash salt
2 cans canned tomatoes
12 cobs sweet corn
Grilled corn and tomato salad with basil and lime

Grilled corn and tomato salad with basil and lime is a delightful and fresh summer dish bursting with vibrant flavors. This recipe combines the sweetness of grilled corn with the tanginess of tomatoes and the aromatic essence of basil, all enhanced by a zesty lime dressing. Perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish for a barbecue, this salad is easy to prepare and sure to impress any palate.

Instructions:

1. Prep the Corn: Preheat your grill to medium-high. Brush the husked corn cobs lightly with 1 tablespoon of the olive oil to prevent sticking.
2. Grill the Corn: Place the corn cobs on the preheated grill. Grill them for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally until they are evenly charred. Remove from grill and let them cool. Once cool enough to handle, cut the kernels off the cobs and transfer them to a large mixing bowl.
3. Prepare the Onions: In a skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent and soft, about 5-7 minutes. Add the fresh thyme and cook for another minute. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
4. Mix the Salad: In the large bowl with the grilled corn kernels, add the drained and diced canned tomatoes, sautéed onions with thyme, and chopped basil leaves.
5. Dress the Salad: In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining 3 tablespoons of olive oil, freshly squeezed lime juice, a dash of black pepper, and a dash of salt. Pour the dressing over the corn and tomato mixture.
6. Toss and Serve: Gently toss the salad to ensure that all ingredients are well combined and evenly coated with the dressing. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
7. Garnish and Enjoy: Transfer the salad to a serving platter or bowl. Garnish with a few extra basil leaves if desired. Serve immediately as a refreshing side dish or enjoy on its own for a light, flavorful meal.

Grilled corn and tomato salad with basil and lime is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a visually appealing dish. Its combination of fresh, seasonal ingredients makes it a nutritious choice as well. Enjoy this salad chilled or at room temperature, and let the flavors transport you to a sunny day outdoors.

Grilled corn and tomato salad with basil and lime FAQ:

How long should I grill the corn for?

Grill the corn cobs for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally until they are evenly charred. This will enhance the flavor and sweetness of the corn.

What can I substitute for fresh thyme in this recipe?

If you don’t have fresh thyme, you can use dried thyme as a substitute. Use about one-third of the amount, as dried herbs are more concentrated. Alternatively, you could try fresh oregano or marjoram.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

It's best to serve this salad fresh, but you can prepare the grilled corn and sautéed onions in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator for up to two days before mixing them with the other ingredients.

What size pan should I use for sautéing the onions?

A medium-sized skillet works well for sautéing the onions. This size allows enough space for the onions to cook evenly without overcrowding.

How should I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The salad may become slightly soggy over time, so it’s best enjoyed fresh.

Cooking Tips:

- For an extra layer of flavor, char the corn on a grill until some kernels are slightly blackened.

- If fresh thyme is unavailable, you can use dried thyme, but reduce the quantity by half.

- To save time, you can prepare the dressing in advance and refrigerate it until ready to use.

- Consider adding other fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for an additional burst of flavor.

- Use fresh, ripe tomatoes if available for an even fresher taste, but ensure they are well-drained if they have high water content.

Nutrition Facts

8 Servings
Calories 120kcal
Protein 4.15g
Carbohydrates 27g
Fiber 4.32g
Sugar 9g
Fat 12g

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