Grilled Maize and Peanut Salad with Tamarind Dressing

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

A vibrant salad featuring sweet grilled maize kernels tossed with crunchy peanuts and a tangy tamarind dressing for a refreshing Tanzanian-inspired side. This african-inspired salads ready in about 32 minutes blends ears fresh maize (corn) on the cob, chopped roasted peanuts, medium, diced red bell pepper into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 280 calories and feeds 4, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 20 min Cook: 12 min Serves 4 African cuisine 280 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Remove husks from 3 ears fresh maize and grill for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally until kernels are lightly charred and cooked through.
  2. Step 2: Let the grilled maize cool slightly, then carefully cut the kernels off the cob into a large mixing bowl.
  3. Step 3: Add 1/2 cup chopped roasted peanuts, 1 medium diced red bell pepper, 1 small finely chopped red onion, and 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro to the bowl.
  4. Step 4: In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tbsp tamarind paste, 1 tbsp honey, 3 tbsp olive oil, 2 tbsp lime juice, salt to taste, and 1/2 tsp black pepper until smooth.
  5. Step 5: Pour the tamarind dressing over the salad ingredients and toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
  6. Step 6: Chill the salad for 15 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld. Serve as a refreshing side or light lunch.

Equipment for this recipe

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Grilled Maize and Peanut Salad with Tamarind Dressing take to make?

Total time is about 32 minutes (20 min prep + 12 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Grilled Maize and Peanut Salad with Tamarind Dressing?

Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.

Can I substitute ingredients in Grilled Maize and Peanut Salad with Tamarind Dressing?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Grilled Maize and Peanut Salad with Tamarind Dressing for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

What goes well with Grilled Maize and Peanut Salad with Tamarind Dressing?

African salads like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.

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