Grilled Romaine, Corn and Chicken Salad with Salsa Dressing

Grilled Romaine, Corn and Chicken Salad with Salsa Dressing is a delightful summer dish that combines fresh ingredients and bold flavors. This easy 15-minute recipe is perfect for casual lunches, family dinners, or summer barbecues. The grilled romaine adds a unique twist to traditional salads, while the salsa dressing brings a zesty kick. Enjoy this vibrant salad as a refreshing main course or a side dish that everyone will love!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This salad can be prepared in just 15 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Fresh and Flavorful: The combination of grilled ingredients and zesty salsa dressing creates an explosion of flavors.
• Versatile: Perfect for lunch, dinner, or even as a potluck dish; it suits any occasion.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein from chicken thighs and fiber from veggies, this salad is nutritious too!
• Beautiful Presentation: The colors of the fresh ingredients make this salad visually appealing on any table.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather your essential tools to make the process smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Large platter
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: This is crucial for achieving that smoky flavor on the chicken and corn while charring the romaine.
• Mixing bowl: A bowl is necessary for combining the salsa dressing ingredients easily.
• Cutting board & Knife: These are essential for safely chopping vegetables and slicing grilled items.

Ingredients

For the Salsa Dressing

• 1/2 cup jarred mild salsa
• 4 teaspoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1/2 lime

For the Salad

• 4 boneless (skinless chicken thighs) (4 oz each), trimmed of fat
• 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon cumin
• 2 corn on the cobs (husks removed)
• 2 romaine hearts
• Olive oil spray

For Garnish

• 4 oz avocado (1 small hass sliced)
• 2 tablespoons diced red onion
• 1/2 cup halved grape tomatoes
• Pinch of kosher salt

How to Make Grilled Romaine, Corn and Chicken Salad with Salsa Dressing

Step 1: Prepare the Salsa Dressing

Combine the salsa, olive oil, and lime juice in a mixing bowl. Set aside to let the flavors meld together.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

Sprinkle kosher salt, dried oregano, and cumin over the chicken thighs. Ensure they are evenly coated for maximum flavor.

Step 3: Preheat the Grill

Light your grill to medium heat. While it’s heating up, remove any tired outer leaves from each romaine heart. Cut each head vertically in half.

Step 4: Prep the Veggies

Place the halved romaine on a large platter and spray cut sides with olive oil spray. Lightly spray both ears of corn with olive oil as well.

Step 5: Grill Chicken and Corn

Place seasoned chicken thighs and corn cobs on the grill. Cook for about 5 minutes on each side until fully cooked through. Remove them from the grill once done.

Step 6: Grill Romaine

Grill romaine halves close to the heat source over high heat for about 1 to 2 minutes until charred slightly. Remove from grill.

Step 7: Assemble Your Salad

Slice grilled chicken into strips and cut kernels off corn cobs. Serve over grilled romaine along with avocado slices, diced red onion, halved grape tomatoes, a pinch of kosher salt, and drizzle with salsa dressing on top.

Enjoy your delicious Grilled Romaine, Corn and Chicken Salad with Salsa Dressing!

How to Serve Grilled Romaine, Corn and Chicken Salad with Salsa Dressing

Serving Grilled Romaine, Corn and Chicken Salad with Salsa Dressing is a delightful experience that showcases fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors. This salad is perfect for summer gatherings or a light weeknight dinner. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dish.

Pair with Tasty Additions

• Crumbled Feta Cheese: Adds a creamy, tangy flavor that complements the salad.
• Grilled Shrimp: For seafood lovers, shrimp adds protein and a delicious smoky taste.
• Chopped Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle cilantro or parsley for an extra layer of freshness.

Include Crunchy Elements

• Tortilla Chips: Serve on the side for added crunch and texture.
• Toasted Nuts: Almonds or walnuts can provide a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.

Enjoy as Part of a Meal

• Serve with Grilled Meat: Pair alongside steak or pork chops for a hearty meal.
• Accompany with Rice or Quinoa: These grains make the meal more filling while adding nutrients.

How to Perfect Grilled Romaine, Corn and Chicken Salad with Salsa Dressing

To achieve the best version of this grilled salad, consider these helpful tips that enhance flavor and presentation.

• Bold Seasoning: Make sure to season the chicken well. A strong flavor base will elevate the entire dish.
• High-Quality Ingredients: Use fresh salsa and ripe avocados for optimal taste.
• Proper Grilling Technique: Grill the corn until it’s slightly charred; it enhances sweetness in the salad.
• Cut Vegetables Uniformly: Ensure even cooking by cutting chicken and vegetables into similar sizes.
• Serve Immediately: This salad is best enjoyed fresh off the grill for maximum flavor and texture.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Romaine, Corn and Chicken Salad with Salsa Dressing

Complementing your Grilled Romaine, Corn and Chicken Salad with Salsa Dressing can enhance your dining experience. Below are some excellent side dishes that pair perfectly.

1. Garlic Bread: A classic choice that adds warmth and buttery flavors to your meal.
2. Coleslaw: Offers a crunchy texture and tangy taste that balances the grilled salad’s flavors.
3. Potato Wedges: Crispy baked potato wedges can serve as a hearty complement to the lighter salad.
4. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits can cleanse the palate between bites.
5. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful peppers filled with rice or quinoa make an eye-catching side dish.
6. Caprese Skewers: Cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze provide freshness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Grilled Romaine, Corn and Chicken Salad with Salsa Dressing, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to avoid for a perfect dish.

• Overcooking the chicken: Overcooked chicken can become dry. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
• Ignoring seasoning: Skipping seasoning can lead to bland flavors. Make sure to season both the chicken and the vegetables adequately.
• Not preheating the grill: A cold grill can result in uneven cooking. Always preheat your grill to medium heat before starting.
• Skipping the oil spray: Not using oil spray on the romaine can cause it to burn. Lightly spray the cut sides for better grilling results.
• Cutting too early: Cutting into the chicken or corn before they rest can release juices. Allow them to sit for a few minutes after grilling.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Grilled Romaine, Corn and Chicken Salad with Salsa Dressing

• Freezing is not recommended due to texture changes in grilled vegetables.
• If necessary, freeze the chicken separately in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.

Reheating Grilled Romaine, Corn and Chicken Salad with Salsa Dressing

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and reheat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals (30 seconds) until heated evenly; avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Heat on low, stirring gently until warmed through for best texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other proteins in this salad?

Yes! You can substitute grilled shrimp, tofu, or even beans for a vegetarian option while keeping the flavor delicious.

What type of salsa works best for Grilled Romaine, Corn and Chicken Salad with Salsa Dressing?

Mild salsa is ideal for this recipe as it complements the flavors without overpowering them. Feel free to experiment with different varieties!

How do I make this salad more filling?

To make the salad heartier, consider adding quinoa or brown rice as a base along with your grilled ingredients.

Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?

While you can grill the chicken and corn ahead of time, it’s best to assemble the salad just before serving for optimal freshness.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Romaine, Corn and Chicken Salad with Salsa Dressing is a vibrant dish that’s perfect for summer gatherings or quick weeknight dinners. Its fresh flavors and textures make it incredibly appealing. Plus, you can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or proteins! Give this recipe a try and enjoy a deliciously satisfying meal.