Follow these steps to bring this delicious salad to life. Trust me, it’s simpler than it looks, and the result is absolutely worth it:

1. Preheat your grill or a griddle pan over medium-high heat. Brush the corn with vegetable oil to prevent sticking.
2. Grill the corn for about 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until it’s charred and cooked through. This step brings out the natural sweetness of the corn that I fondly remember from family cookouts.
3. Once grilled, let the corn cool slightly before slicing the kernels off the cob. I recommend using a sharp knife to make this process easier.
4. In a large bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, crumbled cotija cheese, smoked paprika, chili powder, and lime juice. Stir until smooth and well combined.
5. Add the corn kernels to the dressing and toss to coat thoroughly. This is where the magic happens, as the flavors meld together beautifully.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to your liking.
7. Serve immediately or chill it for a bit to let the flavors develop further. Either way, it’s a crowd-pleaser!

As with any recipe, feel free to adjust the spices to suit your taste. I often add a bit more chili powder when I’m in the mood for an extra kick.