Corn Salad
This easy Corn Salad recipe bursts with fresh Mexican flavors and is drizzled in a delicious dressing! Perfect for summer gatherings, potlucks, or as a healthy snack, it combines vibrant ingredients that make each bite refreshing and satisfying.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, you can whip up this salad in no time.
- Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of corn, bell peppers, and Cotija cheese creates a delightful mix of textures and tastes.
- Versatile Side Dish: It pairs well with grilled meats or can be enjoyed on its own as a light meal.
- Healthy Option: Packed with nutrients and low in calories, this salad is a guilt-free addition to any meal.
- Customizable: Feel free to swap ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand!
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Cutting board: Provides a steady surface for chopping vegetables safely.
- Sharp knife: Makes it easier to dice and slice the veggies evenly for better presentation.
- Mixing bowl: Allows ample space for tossing all ingredients together without spilling.
- Whisk: Helps blend the dressing smoothly for an even coating over the 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 Ingredients
- 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)
- 1/3 cup fresh cilantro (roughly chopped)
Dairy Ingredients
- 3/4 cup fresh Cotija cheese (see notes for subs)
Dressing Ingredients
- 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
Spice Mix
- 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
- Start by shucking the corn. Remove all silk and husks from the ears of corn.
- Boil water in a large pot. Add the corn and cook for about 5 minutes until tender.
- Remove the corn from the pot and let it cool. Once cooled, use a sharp knife to cut off kernels from the cob.
Step 2: Chop Vegetables
- While the corn is cooling, dice your bell peppers, cucumber, and finely chop the red onion and cilantro.
- Halve the cherry tomatoes for added freshness.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
- In a small mixing bowl, 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 combined.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked corn kernels with all chopped vegetables.
- Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
Step 5: Serve or Refrigerate
- If preparing ahead of time, consider adding cheese just before serving to maintain freshness.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to an hour before serving for best flavor.
Enjoy your vibrant Corn Salad as a refreshing side dish or snack!
How to Serve Corn Salad
Corn Salad is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or looking for a quick and healthy snack, this salad is sure to please. Here are some great serving suggestions.
As a Side Dish
- Pair it with grilled chicken or fish for a refreshing complement.
- Serve alongside tacos to enhance the Mexican flavors of your meal.
In a Wrap
- Spoon Corn Salad into a tortilla wrap with your choice of protein for a delicious lunch option.
- Add extra greens for added crunch and nutrition.
As a Dip
- Use Corn Salad as a colorful dip with tortilla chips or pita bread for an exciting appetizer.
- It works great for parties or casual gatherings.
On Top of Greens
- Serve it over a bed of mixed greens for a light and nutritious meal.
- Drizzle with additional dressing if desired for extra flavor.
At Potlucks
- Bring Corn Salad to potlucks; it’s always a hit!
- Make sure to prepare it fresh or add the dressing right before serving.
How to Perfect Corn Salad
To make your Corn Salad even better, consider these tips that will elevate your dish to new heights.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh corn and ripe vegetables when preparing your salad. This ensures vibrant flavors and textures.
- Add Variety: Experiment with different vegetables like zucchini or jalapeños for an extra kick.
- Chill Before Serving: Allow the salad to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This enhances the flavors.
- Customize Your Dressing: Feel free to adjust the dressing ingredients according to your taste preferences. Adding more lime juice can boost freshness.
- Top with Nuts or Seeds: Adding toasted pumpkin seeds or nuts gives an excellent crunch and additional nutrition.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust salt, pepper, and spices just before serving to ensure maximum flavor.
Best Side Dishes for Corn Salad
If you’re planning a meal featuring Corn Salad, consider these delightful side dishes that pair beautifully.
- Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables grilled until tender make an excellent complement.
- Quinoa Pilaf: A light quinoa pilaf adds protein and complements the salad perfectly.
- Stuffed Peppers: Colorful stuffed peppers filled with rice and beans provide hearty satisfaction.
- Potato Wedges: Crispy baked potato wedges offer comfort while remaining healthy.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw balances out the sweetness of the corn salad.
- Garlic Bread: Warm garlic bread is always a favorite, perfect for scooping up salad bits!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making a Corn Salad can be straightforward, but there are some common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here’s how to avoid them:
- Using old corn: Always choose fresh corn for the best taste. If possible, buy corn on the cob and shuck it just before cooking.
- Skipping the seasoning: Many people forget to season their salad properly. Make sure to add salt and other spices to enhance the flavors.
- Not chilling before serving: A common mistake is serving immediately after mixing. Allow your Corn Salad to chill for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.
- Overdressing: Too much dressing can make the salad soggy. Start with less and gradually add more until you reach your desired level of flavor.
- Ignoring ingredient quality: Use high-quality ingredients, especially fresh vegetables and good oil for dressing. This makes a significant difference in taste.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Corn Salad
- It is not recommended, as freezing may alter the texture of the vegetables.
- If necessary, store in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month.
Reheating Corn Salad
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat for about 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 30 seconds, stirring in between until warm.
- Stovetop: Warm on low heat, stirring gently to avoid overcooking.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Corn Salad?
Corn Salad is a refreshing dish made primarily with fresh corn and various vegetables. It’s often dressed with lime juice and spices.
How do you make Corn Salad?
To make Corn Salad, mix cooked corn with diced vegetables like bell peppers and tomatoes. Add a dressing made from lime juice, oil, and seasonings.
Can I customize my Corn Salad?
Absolutely! You can add ingredients like avocado, beans, or jalapeños for extra flavor and texture.
How long does Corn Salad last?
Corn Salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days if kept in an airtight container.
Is Corn Salad healthy?
Yes! It’s packed with fresh vegetables and provides essential nutrients while being low in calories.
Final Thoughts
This easy Corn Salad recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it according to your preferences by adding different veggies or proteins. Perfect for potlucks or summer gatherings, it brings a burst of fresh flavors that everyone will love!
Corn Salad
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: About 6 servings 1x
Description
This vibrant Corn Salad is a delightful blend of fresh ingredients and zesty flavors, making it the perfect addition to summer gatherings or as a refreshing snack. Bursting with the sweetness of corn, the crunch of bell peppers, and the creaminess of Cotija cheese, this easy recipe is not only quick to prepare but also customizable.
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 chopped fresh cilantro
- ¾ cup fresh Cotija cheese
- 3 tablespoons avocado oil
- ¼ cup lime juice
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 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
- Shuck and boil the corn in water for about 5 minutes until tender. Cool and cut off kernels.
- Dice bell peppers and cucumber; chop red onion and cilantro; halve cherry tomatoes.
- Whisk together dressing ingredients in a small bowl.
- Combine corn and vegetables in a large bowl; pour dressing over and toss gently.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to an hour before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
