This Bright and Zesty Corn Salad is the perfect dish for summer! Made with sweet corn, fresh veggies, and a tangy dressing, it’s crunchy and bursting with flavor.
Every bite feels like a sunny day! I love to serve it at picnics or barbecues. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up—just mix and enjoy with friends!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Fresh Corn: Sweet corn is the star here. You can use fresh corn from the cob, which I think adds the best flavor. If it’s out of season, frozen corn works just fine—just thaw and drain it well.
Cherry Tomatoes: I prefer cherry tomatoes for their sweetness, but grape tomatoes or even diced regular tomatoes make good substitutes. Choose vibrant, ripe ones for the best taste.
Red Bell Pepper: This adds a crisp sweetness. You can swap for yellow or orange bell peppers for a different flavor. In a pinch, use diced green bell pepper, but it will be less sweet.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro is a must for that zesty kick. If you’re not a fan, fresh parsley can work as a milder alternative.
Jalapeño: Optional for heat! You can leave it out or replace it with a pinch of red pepper flakes if you want a little spiciness without the crunch.
How Do I Get the Best Flavor from My Dressing?
Making a tasty dressing is key to this salad’s freshness! Here’s how to get it just right:
- Use fresh lime juice for the brightest flavor. Roll the limes on your counter before squeezing to get more juice out.
- Whisk the olive oil and lime juice together vigorously to emulsify them—it adds a nice creaminess.
- Don’t skip the honey or agave! It balances the acidity of the lime, creating a well-rounded dressing.
Remember to taste as you go. Adjust with extra lime juice or honey to find the perfect balance for your palate!
Bright and Zesty Corn Salad Recipe for Summer
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Fresh Veggies:
- 4 cups fresh corn kernels (about 4-5 ears)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, finely diced
- 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped (optional, for heat)
For the Dressing:
- Juice of 2 limes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon honey or agave syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful corn salad will take you about 15 minutes to prepare. After that, just let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to let all those wonderful flavors come together. So, you’re looking at a total of about 45 minutes before you can enjoy this refreshing dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Corn:
If you’re using fresh corn on the cob, begin by bringing a large pot of water to boil. Once boiling, add the ears of corn and cook them for about 3-5 minutes until they are tender. After cooking, drain the corn, let it cool, and then carefully cut the kernels off the cob into a large mixing bowl.
2. Mix the Vegetables:
In the same bowl where you added the corn, toss in the halved cherry tomatoes, diced red bell pepper, diced cucumber, chopped red onion, fresh cilantro, and jalapeño if you like a bit of heat. Gently mix everything together to combine.
3. Make the Dressing:
Now, grab a small bowl to prepare your dressing. Whisk together the fresh lime juice, olive oil, honey or agave syrup, ground cumin, salt, and freshly ground black pepper until all the ingredients are well combined and smooth.
4. Combine:
Pour the dressing over your veggie mixture. Gently toss everything together until the ingredients are well coated with your bright and zesty dressing.
5. Adjust Seasoning:
Don’t forget to taste your salad! Feel free to add a little more salt, pepper, or lime juice according to your preference. Make sure it’s just right for you!
6. Chill and Serve:
To let all those flavors meld together beautifully, cover the salad and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes. When you’re ready to serve, enjoy the salad cold or at room temperature. If you’d like, sprinkle some extra chopped cilantro on top for a vibrant finish!
Enjoy your refreshing, bright, and zesty corn salad perfect for summer gatherings!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Corn Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen corn is a great substitute. Just thaw it completely and drain any excess moisture before adding it to the salad. This makes it a convenient option when fresh corn isn’t available.
How Long Will Leftovers Last in the Fridge?
Your corn salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just give it a gentle toss before serving again to refresh the flavors!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes! This salad is perfect for making ahead. You can prepare it a day in advance; just keep it chilled until you’re ready to serve. In fact, letting it sit overnight can enhance the flavors even more!
What Can I Add for Extra Protein?
If you want to turn this salad into a more filling dish, consider adding some cooked beans like black beans or chickpeas. Grilled chicken or shrimp also work well for a protein boost!
