Grilled Romaine, Corn and Chicken Salad with Salsa Dressing

Grilled Romaine, Corn and Chicken Salad with Salsa Dressing is a vibrant dish perfect for summer gatherings or a quick weeknight dinner. This salad combines the crispness of grilled romaine, juicy corn, and tender chicken, all topped with a zesty salsa dressing. The fresh flavors and colorful ingredients make it a delightful choice for various occasions, from barbecues to light lunches.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This dish takes only 15 minutes to whip up, making it ideal for busy days.
• Packed with Flavor: The combination of grilled chicken and fresh salsa dressing creates a burst of taste in every bite.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize this salad by adding your favorite veggies or proteins.
• Healthy Choice: With lean chicken and fresh produce, this salad is nutritious and satisfying.
• Visually Appealing: The colorful ingredients make this salad not just delicious but also a feast for the eyes.

Tools and Preparation

Before you get started on your Grilled Romaine, Corn and Chicken Salad with Salsa Dressing, gather your kitchen tools. Having the right equipment will ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Large platter
• Olive oil spray bottle

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Essential for achieving that perfect char on the chicken and romaine.
• Cutting Board: Provides a safe surface for cutting vegetables and meat.
• Chef’s Knife: A sharp knife makes it easy to slice through chicken and chop veggies efficiently.

Ingredients

For the Dressing

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

For the Chicken

• 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

For the Salad

• 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 Dressing

Combine the salsa, olive oil, and lime juice in a bowl. Set this mixture aside while you prepare the other ingredients.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

Season the chicken thighs evenly with kosher salt, oregano, and cumin. Make sure each piece is well-coated for maximum flavor.

Step 3: Preheat the Grill

Light your grill to medium heat. Remove any tired outer leaves from the romaine hearts. Halve each head vertically. Place them on a large platter and spray the cut sides with olive oil spray. Lightly spray corn with olive oil as well.

Step 4: Grill Chicken and Corn

Place the seasoned chicken thighs and corn on the grill. Cook them until done—about 5 minutes per side for the chicken until it’s cooked through, and until tender for the corn. Once cooked, remove them from the grill and let them rest on a cutting board.

Step 5: Grill Romaine Hearts

Grill the halved romaine hearts close to the heat source over high heat. Cook cut side down for about 1 to 2 minutes until slightly charred. Remove from heat once done.

Step 6: Assemble Your Salad

Slice the grilled chicken into strips and cut kernels off the corn cobs. Serve these over grilled romaine along with avocado slices, diced onions, halved grape tomatoes, a pinch of salt, and drizzle generously 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 your Grilled Romaine, Corn and Chicken Salad with Salsa Dressing can elevate the meal experience. Here are some creative ways to present this delicious dish.

On a Platter

• Arrange the salad on a large platter for family-style dining. This allows guests to serve themselves and creates a communal feel.

In Individual Bowls

• Serve in individual bowls, layering the ingredients for an attractive presentation. This method is great for portion control and makes it easy for guests to enjoy.

With Extra Salsa Dressing

• Offer additional salsa dressing on the side. This allows everyone to customize their salad according to their taste preferences, adding more flavor if desired.

With Crunchy Tortilla Strips

• Top the salad with crunchy tortilla strips for added texture. The crunch complements the grilled flavors beautifully and adds an appealing visual element.

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

To make your Grilled Romaine, Corn and Chicken Salad with Salsa Dressing even better, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh romaine hearts and ripe avocados will enhance the flavor and texture of your salad significantly.

• Preheat Your Grill: Ensuring your grill is hot before cooking prevents sticking and helps achieve those perfect grill marks on the chicken and corn.

• Don’t Overcook: Keep an eye on your chicken and corn. Overcooking can lead to dryness; aim for that juicy tenderness instead.

• Experiment with Toppings: Consider adding other toppings like feta cheese or fresh herbs for extra flavor dimensions.

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

Pairing sides with your salad can enhance the meal experience. Here are some excellent side dishes that complement the flavors of your Grilled Romaine, Corn and Chicken Salad with Salsa Dressing.

1. Garlic Bread: A crispy garlic bread pairs well with the fresh taste of the salad while adding a hearty touch.
2. Quinoa Pilaf: A light quinoa pilaf offers a nutritious balance, providing additional protein without overpowering the main dish.
3. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad adds sweetness, making it a perfect contrast to the savory elements of your main dish.
4. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal grilled vegetables echo the grilled theme of your meal while enhancing its overall flavor profile.
5. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides crunch and acidity, balancing out the richness of the chicken and avocado.
6. Potato Wedges: Crispy baked potato wedges can add comfort food appeal without overshadowing your vibrant salad.
7. Cornbread: Sweet cornbread can provide a delightful contrast to the savory notes in your salad.
8. Chips and Guacamole: For a fun addition, serve tortilla chips with guacamole as a snack or appetizer alongside your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Grilled Romaine, Corn and Chicken Salad with Salsa Dressing, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Overcooking the chicken: Ensure you check the chicken’s doneness after about 5 minutes on each side. Use a meat thermometer for accurate results.

• Forgetting to season adequately: Seasoning your chicken is key to enhancing flavor. Don’t skip this step; use salt and spices generously.

• Not preheating the grill: Always preheat your grill to medium heat. This ensures even cooking and nice grill marks on the chicken and vegetables.

• Skipping the olive oil spray: Spraying your romaine and corn with olive oil prevents sticking and enhances grilling. Make sure to coat the cut sides well.

• Ignoring the resting time: Letting grilled items rest for a few minutes allows juices to redistribute, making them more flavorful. Don’t skip this step!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3 days for optimal freshness.
• Keep chicken separate from salad components if possible.

Freezing Grilled Romaine, Corn and Chicken Salad with Salsa Dressing

• It’s best not to freeze this salad due to the texture changes in romaine.
• If needed, freeze only the grilled chicken in a freezer-safe bag.
• Use within 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Grilled Romaine, Corn and Chicken Salad with Salsa Dressing

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

• Microwave: Place chicken in a microwave-safe dish. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes or until heated through.

• Stovetop: Heat a small skillet over medium heat. Add chicken strips and cook for about 4-5 minutes until warmed throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I customize Grilled Romaine, Corn and Chicken Salad with Salsa Dressing?

You can add different proteins like shrimp or tofu, or swap out veggies based on what you have on hand.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare components separately and assemble just before serving for best freshness.

What can I serve with Grilled Romaine, Corn and Chicken Salad with Salsa Dressing?

This salad pairs well with grilled bread or as a side dish alongside other grilled meats.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Replace the chicken with grilled chickpeas or additional veggies for a hearty vegetarian option.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Romaine, Corn and Chicken Salad with Salsa Dressing is a delightful dish that’s perfect for summer meals. Its mix of flavors and textures makes it appealing for any occasion. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients or dressings! Enjoy this refreshing salad all season long!