Grilled Corn and Crawfish Relish

Name: Grilled Corn and Crawfish Relish
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 ears of corn, husked; 1 cup cooked crawfish tails, drained; 1/2 cup bell pepper, finely chopped; 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped; 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped; Juice of 1 lime; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Olive oil for grilling

Highlighted under: Around World Recipes

I absolutely love the vibrant flavors in this Grilled Corn and Crawfish Relish. Every bite bursts with freshness, and it’s a perfect dish for summer gatherings or a cozy night in. Grilling the corn enhances its sweetness while the crawfish adds a delightful briny touch. This recipe is not only simple to make but also brings together the perfect complement of spices and vegetables. I enjoy serving it as a zesty topping for grilled fish or as a stand-alone side dish, and it never fails to impress my guests.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-04T17:49:27.618Z

When I first tried making Grilled Corn and Crawfish Relish, I wasn't sure how the flavors would come together. After a few trials, I found that grilling the corn really elevates its natural sweetness and gives it a nice char. I also learned that if I added just the right amount of lime juice, it perfectly balanced the richness of the crawfish.

This dish has become a summer staple for me. It’s versatile and pairs wonderfully with various proteins or even just as a dip with chips. I recommend letting it chill for a bit before serving, as this allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Fresh, sweet corn grilled to perfection
Savory crawfish that pairs wonderfully with the corn
A refreshing kick from lime and spices

Unlocking Flavorful Combinations

The combination of grilled corn and crawfish creates a delightful contrast in both taste and texture. The grilling process caramelizes the sugars in the corn, enhancing its sweetness and adding a smoky flavor that beautifully complements the briny notes of the crawfish. When selecting crawfish, lean towards fresh or frozen varieties that are pre-cooked to maintain that savory essence while saving time in preparation. If you can't find crawfish, shrimp can be a viable alternative, though it may slightly alter the dish's overall flavor profile.

Incorporating fresh herbs like cilantro elevates the relish by adding a burst of freshness. The bright, citrusy notes of lime juice balance the richness of the crawfish and the sweetness of the corn. If cilantro isn't your favorite, consider using parsley or green onions for a different yet complementary flavor. The key is to ensure that the herbs are fresh to avoid a dull taste and to enhance the overall vibrancy of the dish.

Tips for Grilling Corn Perfectly

Grilling corn can be straightforward, but to ensure success, it's crucial to choose fresh ears with bright green husks and plump kernels. Before grilling, husk the corn and remove all silk. This helps achieve even charring and prevents any silk strands from burning on the grill. To enhance flavor, you can soak the corn in water for 15 to 30 minutes before grilling, which helps keep it moist while cooking and prevents it from drying out, especially over high heat.

When grilling, keep an eye on the corn and turn it every few minutes to achieve an even char. Aim for a golden-brown shade on the kernels, which typically takes about 10 minutes. If you notice any kernels starting to char too quickly, move them to a cooler part of the grill. This technique gives you control over the cooking process and ensures deliciously roasted corn without burning.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Grilled Corn and Crawfish Relish

4 ears of corn, husked
1 cup cooked crawfish tails, drained
1/2 cup bell pepper, finely chopped
1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
Juice of 1 lime
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for grilling

Cooking Steps

Instructions

Grill the Corn

Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Brush the corn with a little olive oil and season with salt. Grill for about 10 minutes, turning occasionally, until lightly charred. Let cool.

Prepare the Relish

Once the corn has cooled, carefully slice the kernels off the cob and place them in a bowl. Add the crawfish tails, bell pepper, red onion, cilantro, lime juice, garlic powder, and season with salt and pepper.

Mix and Serve

Gently toss the mixture together until well combined. Let the relish sit for at least 10 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld. Enjoy it as a topping or on its own!

Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add a dash of hot sauce to the relish.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Grilled Corn and Crawfish Relish can be made ahead of time, making it a convenient option for gatherings. After mixing the ingredients, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. This resting time not only allows flavors to meld but can also make the relish more refreshing and flavorful when served cold during hot summer days. However, it's best to add the lime juice just before serving to maintain its brightness and prevent the herbs from wilting.

If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To revitalize the dish, consider adding a splash of lime juice before serving to refresh the flavors. However, avoid freezing this relish, as the texture of the corn and veggies may become mushy upon thawing.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

This relish makes an outstanding topping for grilled fish or chicken, adding a pop of color and burst of flavor. Try it over grilled salmon or tilapia for a delightful summer meal. You could also serve it alongside tortilla chips as a zesty dip. The combination of sweet and savory flavors will entice your guests and keep the atmosphere lively at your summer BBQ.

For a unique twist, consider incorporating the relish into tacos, topping them with sliced avocado and a sprinkle of feta cheese. The corn and crawfish relish complements the richness of the avocado beautifully. You might also experiment by adding diced jalapeños for a spicy variation that adds an exciting kick.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen crawfish tails?

Yes, frozen crawfish tails work fine. Just make sure they are thawed and drained before using.

→ How can I adjust the spice level?

You can adjust spice levels by adding diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce if you like it spicier.

→ What can I serve this relish with?

This relish pairs perfectly with grilled fish, shrimp, or as a topping for tacos.

→ Can I make this a day ahead?

Yes, but it's best to mix in the cilantro just before serving to keep it fresh.