Corn Salad
This easy Corn Salad recipe is a vibrant mix of fresh ingredients and zesty flavors, making it an ideal side dish for potlucks, barbecues, or a healthy summer snack. The combination of sweet corn, crunchy vegetables, and a delicious dressing ensures that this salad stands out at any gathering. With its colorful presentation and refreshing taste, you’ll find yourself reaching for seconds!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Fresh Flavors: Packed with fresh ingredients, this Corn Salad bursts with Mexican-inspired flavors that will excite your taste buds.
- Quick and Easy: With just 30 minutes of preparation time, this recipe is perfect for those busy days when you need a fast yet impressive dish.
- Versatile Dish: Whether as a side for grilled meats or a light lunch on its own, this Corn Salad adapts to fit any occasion.
- Healthy Ingredients: Loaded with veggies and healthy fats from avocado oil, this salad is not only tasty but also nutritious.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Its colorful appearance and delightful taste make it an instant hit at parties and gatherings.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the recipe, gather the necessary tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups
- Whisk or fork
Importance of Each Tool
- Large mixing bowl: Provides ample space to combine all ingredients without making a mess.
- Sharp knife: Ensures precise cutting for fresh vegetables, enhancing the overall presentation of your Corn Salad.
Ingredients
This easy Corn Salad recipe is loaded with fresh Mexican flavors and is tossed in the most flavorful dressing! It makes a perfect side dish for a potluck or healthy summer snack!
Fresh Vegetables
- 4 large ears of fresh corn (see notes)
- 1 ½ cups diced bell pepper (I use red and green)
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes (halved)
- 1 cup English cucumber (diced)
- ½ cup red onions (finely diced)
- ⅓ cup fresh cilantro (roughly chopped)
Cheese and Dressing
- ¾ cup fresh Cotija cheese (see notes for subs)
- 3 tablespoons avocado oil (or extra virgin olive oil)
- ¼ cup lime juice (can sub lemon juice)
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 Tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Seasoning
- 1 teaspoon EACH: salt, dried parsley
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon EACH: cumin, garlic powder, chili powder
How to Make Corn Salad
Step 1: Prepare the Corn
First, cook the corn. Bring water to a boil in a large pot. Add the corn ears and boil for about 5 minutes until tender. Remove them from the heat and let cool slightly before cutting off the kernels.
Step 2: Chop the Vegetables
While the corn cools, chop all your vegetables:
1. Dice the bell peppers in small cubes.
2. Halve the cherry tomatoes.
3. Dice the cucumber into bite-sized pieces.
4. Finely chop the red onion.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl:
1. Add the corn kernels.
2. Stir in diced bell pepper, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and chopped cilantro.
3. Gently mix until well combined.
Step 4: Prepare the Dressing
In another bowl:
1. Whisk together avocado oil, lime juice, red wine vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, dried parsley, black pepper, cumin, garlic powder, and chili powder until well blended.
Step 5: Dress the Salad
Pour the dressing over the salad mixture:
1. Toss everything gently to coat all ingredients evenly with dressing.
2. If preparing ahead of time, refrigerate without cheese until ready to serve.
Step 6: Serve
Just before serving:
1. Sprinkle Cotija cheese on top of your Corn Salad for added flavor.
2. Enjoy this refreshing dish chilled or at room temperature!
This easy Corn Salad recipe is sure to become a favorite at your table!
How to Serve Corn Salad
Corn Salad is a versatile dish that can brighten up any meal. Its fresh flavors make it an excellent addition to various occasions. Here are some serving suggestions to help you enjoy this delightful salad.
As a Side Dish
- Pair it with grilled chicken or steak for a savory contrast.
- Serve alongside tacos to complement their flavors and add freshness.
In a Wrap
- Use Corn Salad as a filling in lettuce wraps for a healthy lunch option.
- Combine it with grilled shrimp or fish for added protein.
On Tostadas
- Spoon the salad onto crispy tostadas for a fun appetizer.
- Top with avocado slices for an extra creamy touch.
With Tortilla Chips
- Serve Corn Salad as a dip with tortilla chips during gatherings.
- This adds a crunchy texture that pairs well with the salad’s freshness.
As a Light Snack
- Enjoy Corn Salad on its own as a refreshing snack.
- Add some lime wedges on the side for an extra zing.
How to Perfect Corn Salad
To elevate your Corn Salad, consider these tips that enhance flavor and texture.
- Choose Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh corn and ripe vegetables to maximize taste.
- Customize the Dressing: Feel free to adjust lime juice or honey based on your taste preferences.
- Add Heat: Incorporate diced jalapeños if you enjoy a spicy kick in your salad.
- Let It Chill: Allowing the salad to sit in the fridge for 30 minutes lets flavors meld beautifully.
- Use Quality Cheese: Fresh Cotija cheese adds creaminess; consider alternatives like feta if needed.
- Garnish Creatively: Finish with extra cilantro or avocado for visual appeal and flavor depth.
Best Side Dishes for Corn Salad
Corn Salad pairs wonderfully with many side dishes, making it perfect for any meal. Here are some great options to consider:
- Grilled Vegetables: A mix of zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus, seasoned and grilled until tender.
- Quinoa Pilaf: Fluffy quinoa cooked with spices and herbs, offering a nutritious complement.
- Potato Wedges: Crispy baked potato wedges seasoned with herbs, providing a hearty side option.
- Coleslaw: A tangy cabbage slaw adds crunch and balances the freshness of Corn Salad.
- Rice and Beans: A hearty combination of rice and black beans seasoned with lime and cilantro complements well.
- Garlic Bread: Warm, toasted garlic bread offers a deliciously indulgent pairing for your meal.
- Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad adds sweetness, balancing out the savory elements of the meal.
- Grilled Shrimp Skewers: Juicy shrimp skewers marinated in spices pair excellently with the salad’s flavors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Corn Salad, it’s easy to overlook small details that can affect your dish’s flavor and texture. Here are some common mistakes to avoid.
- Using frozen corn – Fresh corn makes a significant difference in taste and texture. Always opt for fresh corn on the cob for the best results.
- Skipping the seasoning – Failing to season adequately can make your Corn Salad bland. Be sure to include salt and spices to enhance the flavors.
- Overdressing your salad – Adding too much dressing can overwhelm the other ingredients. Start with a little and add more as needed for balance.
- Not chilling before serving – Serving Corn Salad immediately can result in a lack of flavor depth. Allow it to chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving.
- Forgetting about texture – A great Corn Salad combines crunchy and creamy elements. Don’t skip on adding veggies like cucumbers or cheese for variety.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Corn Salad in an airtight container.
- It will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
- Keep it un-dressed if you plan to store leftovers to maintain freshness.
Freezing Corn Salad
- Freezing is not recommended due to the texture changes in fresh ingredients.
- If you have leftover dressing, you can freeze it separately.
Reheating Corn Salad
- Oven – Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10 minutes.
- Microwave – Heat in short intervals, stirring between, until warmed through.
- Stovetop – Warm gently over low heat while stirring frequently.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Corn Salad?
Corn Salad is a refreshing dish made with fresh corn and colorful vegetables, often dressed with lime juice and spices for added flavor.
How long does Corn Salad last?
Corn Salad typically lasts up to 3 days when stored properly in the refrigerator.
Can I customize my Corn Salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other ingredients like avocados, beans, or different herbs according to your taste preference.
Is Corn Salad healthy?
Yes! With fresh vegetables and minimal fats from the dressing, Corn Salad is a nutritious option that fits well into many diets.
What are good pairings for Corn Salad?
Corn Salad pairs well with grilled meats, tacos, or as a standalone snack during summer picnics.
Final Thoughts
This easy Corn Salad recipe is not only delicious but incredibly versatile. You can customize it with your favorite veggies or dressings, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or looking for a quick snack, this salad is sure to impress!
Corn Salad
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
Description
This vibrant Corn Salad recipe is a delightful blend of fresh ingredients that brings a burst of flavor to any table. Perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, or simply as a healthy snack, this salad features sweet corn, crunchy vegetables, and a zesty dressing that elevates its appeal. With its colorful presentation and refreshing taste, it’s no wonder this dish becomes the star of the show at potlucks and barbecues. Easy to prepare in just 30 minutes, you’ll find yourself reaching for seconds!
Ingredients
- 4 large ears of fresh corn
- 1 ½ cups diced bell pepper (red and green)
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes (halved)
- 1 cup diced English cucumber
- ½ cup finely diced red onions
- ⅓ cup roughly chopped fresh cilantro
- ¾ cup fresh Cotija cheese
- 3 tablespoons avocado oil
- ¼ cup lime juice
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon cumin
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon chili powder
Instructions
- Boil water in a large pot and cook corn for about 5 minutes. Let cool before cutting off the kernels.
- Dice bell peppers and cucumber, halve the cherry tomatoes, and chop red onion.
- In a large bowl, combine corn kernels with all chopped vegetables and cilantro.
- In another bowl, whisk together avocado oil, lime juice, honey, Dijon mustard, and seasonings until blended.
- Pour dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently to coat.
- Top with Cotija cheese before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 19g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
