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Summer Caesar Salad with Charred Sweet Corn – Fresh, Smoky & Ready in 20 Minutes

Take your summer salads to the next level with this Summer Caesar Salad with Charred Sweet Corn. It’s a bold twist on the classic Caesar — packed with smoky-sweet grilled corn, crunchy romaine, creamy dressing, and crispy croutons. Light enough for hot days, but satisfying enough to stand on its own. This recipe brings big flavor in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for backyard BBQs, quick lunches, or a vibrant side dish. The charred corn adds a sweet and slightly smoky note that balances beautifully with the tangy Caesar dressing and salty Parmesan. Whether served as a side or main, it’s guaranteed to become your warm-weather go-to.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 3 servings
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

🌽 Produce
  • 2 cups sweet corn kernels about 2 ears, shucked
  • 1 large head romaine lettuce washed and chopped
  • 1 lemon for juice and zest
  • 1 small garlic clove minced
🥖 Pantry & Dry Goods
  • 1/2 cup croutons store-bought or homemade
  • Salt & black pepper to taste
🧀 Dairy
  • 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese plus more for topping
  • 1 tablespoon plain Greek yogurt optional for extra creaminess
🫒 Oils & Condiments
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil divided
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
🌿 Optional add-ins: Grilled chicken, avocado slices, or halved cherry tomatoes for a heartier salad.

Equipment

  • To make this easy summer Caesar salad, you'll need:
  • Grill pan, cast iron skillet, or outdoor grill
  • Salad spinner or clean dish towel
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Tongs or salad servers
  • Small whisk or jar (for dressing)
  • Baking sheet (if making homemade croutons)

Method
 

Step 1: Char the Corn
  1. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a hot grill pan or cast iron skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Add the corn kernels and a pinch of salt.
  3. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 5–7 minutes until lightly charred.
  4. Set aside to cool slightly.
Step 2: Make the Caesar Dressing
  1. In a small bowl or jar, whisk together:
  2. Minced garlic
  3. Mayonnaise
  4. Dijon mustard
  5. Lemon juice
  6. Worcestershire sauce
  7. Grated Parmesan cheese
  8. Greek yogurt (if using)
  9. Add salt and black pepper to taste.
  10. Whisk in remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil until smooth and creamy.
Step 3: Toss the Salad
  1. In a large bowl, combine:
  2. Chopped romaine lettuce
  3. Charred corn
  4. Croutons
  5. Parmesan cheese
  6. Drizzle the Caesar dressing over the salad.
  7. Toss well until evenly coated.
Step 4: Garnish & Serve
  1. Top with extra Parmesan, a crack of black pepper, and a sprinkle of lemon zest.
  2. Serve immediately!
🥗 Pro Tip: Serve it on a chilled plate for maximum summer refreshment.

    Notes

    🧊 Storage & Reheating
    Storage
    This salad is best enjoyed fresh.
    If needed, store leftovers in the fridge for up to 1 day — dressing may cause wilting.
    Keep dressing separate if prepping ahead.
    Reheating
    Corn can be charred ahead and kept refrigerated for up to 3 days.
    Rewarm briefly in a skillet or serve cold straight from the fridge.
    🥄 Meal prep tip: Keep chopped romaine, dressing, and corn stored separately to toss together fresh when ready to eat.
    🥄 Variations
    Elevate this already delicious salad with these fun twists:
    🥑 Southwest Caesar: Add black beans, avocado, and tortilla strips.
    🍗 Grilled Chicken Caesar: Top with sliced grilled chicken breast.
    🧀 Extra Creamy: Mix in more Greek yogurt or a splash of cream.
    🐟 Smoked Salmon Caesar: A great protein boost with salty, smoky flavor.
    🧄 Roasted Garlic Version: Roast garlic and add it to the dressing for deeper flavor.
    🌶️ Spicy Caesar: Add a dash of hot sauce or chili flakes to the dressing.
    ❓ 10 FAQs
    1. Can I use canned or frozen corn?
    Yes! Just drain and pat dry canned corn or thaw frozen corn. Char it in a hot pan for a few minutes.
    2. What’s the best lettuce for Caesar salad?
    Romaine is the classic choice for its crunch, but baby kale or little gem lettuce also work well.
    3. Can I make the dressing ahead?
    Yes! Store in the fridge for up to 3 days in a sealed jar.
    4. Is this gluten-free?
    It can be — just use gluten-free croutons or skip them entirely.
    5. What’s a good substitute for mayo?
    Try Greek yogurt, sour cream, or even mashed avocado.
    6. Can I grill the corn on the cob?
    Absolutely. Grill whole ears, then slice the kernels off.
    7. How do I make homemade croutons?
    Cube stale bread, toss with olive oil and salt, and bake at 375°F for 10–15 minutes.
    8. Is there a vegan version of Caesar dressing?
    Yes — use vegan mayo and omit Parmesan or replace with nutritional yeast.
    9. Can I add protein to make it a full meal?
    Yes! Add grilled chicken, shrimp, salmon, or even a poached egg on top.
    10. Can I use bottled Caesar dressing?
    Of course — though homemade adds a fresher, zippier taste!
    🏁 Conclusion
    This Summer Caesar Salad with Charred Sweet Corn is everything you want in a warm-weather dish: fresh, smoky, creamy, and crisp. It’s a salad that holds its own — flavorful enough to be a star, yet simple enough to serve with anything.
    With only 20 minutes from start to finish, it’s perfect for spontaneous summer meals, potlucks, or even weeknight dinners. One bite and you’ll see — Caesar will never be the same again.