This Bright and Zesty Corn Salad is perfect for summer! It’s made with fresh corn, juicy tomatoes, and a splash of lime for that cheerful taste.
I love making this salad for barbecues since it’s colorful and refreshing. Plus, it’s super easy to toss together—no cooking required! Who doesn’t love a dish like that? 🌽🍅
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Corn: Fresh corn is key for sweetness and crunch. If fresh isn’t available, frozen corn works great too. Just thaw it and drain before using. Some people even roast the frozen corn for added flavor!
Cherry Tomatoes: These add juiciness and color. You could substitute with diced regular tomatoes, but be sure to deseed them to avoid too much moisture.
Red Bell Pepper: It provides sweetness and crunch. If you’re looking for a lower-carb option, diced cucumbers could be a refreshing substitute.
Cilantro: This fresh herb is essential for the salad’s brightness. If you’re not a fan of cilantro, you can use parsley or even mint for a different twist.
Jalapeño: This gives a nice kick but is optional. If you want a milder salad, you can leave it out or replace it with a pinch of red pepper flakes instead.
How Do I Cook Corn Perfectly for This Salad?
Cooking corn can be tricky, but it’s simple if you follow these steps. Fresh corn is best for sweetness!
- Boil water in a large pot.
- Add corn and let cook for 3-4 minutes. This method keeps the kernels crisp.
- After draining, immediately rinse with cold water to stop the cooking and cool off the corn.
- If you prefer a deeper flavor, try grilling the corn on the cob for about 10 minutes instead. Then cut the kernels off.
Bright and Zesty Corn Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 4 cups fresh corn kernels (about 5-6 ears of corn)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 red bell pepper, 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 teaspoon honey or agave syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious corn salad takes about 15-20 minutes to prepare. It’s a quick recipe with just a bit of cooking time or you can use raw corn for extra crunch. In no time at all, you’ll have a bright and refreshing side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Corn:
If using fresh corn, start by bringing a large pot of water to a boil. Add the corn ears and let them cook for 3-4 minutes until they’re tender. Once done, drain the corn and let it cool. After cooling, cut the kernels off the cob. If you prefer, you can skip cooking and use raw corn kernels for a crisper texture.
2. Combine the Salad Ingredients:
In a large bowl, mix together the corn kernels, halved cherry tomatoes, diced red bell pepper, finely chopped red onion, cilantro, and jalapeño if you’re using it. This colorful mix is the heart of your salad!
3. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, honey or agave syrup, ground cumin, salt, and pepper until everything is well blended. The dressing is what adds that zesty kick to the salad.
4. Toss the Salad:
Pour the prepared dressing over the salad ingredients and gently toss everything together, making sure all the elements are well coated with the dressing.
5. Meld the Flavors:
Allow the salad to sit for 10-15 minutes. This resting time lets the flavors blend and enhances the taste!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Ready to serve! You can enjoy this salad chilled or at room temperature. It makes for a bright and refreshing side dish that’s perfect for all your summer gatherings!
FAQ for Bright and Zesty Corn Salad
Can I Use Frozen Corn for This Salad?
Absolutely! If fresh corn isn’t available, frozen corn is a great alternative. Just thaw the corn and drain any excess moisture before adding it to the salad. For an extra touch, you can briefly sauté the frozen corn to bring out its sweetness!
How Long Can I Store Leftover Corn Salad?
You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, making it even tastier. Just give it a quick toss before serving again!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the salad a few hours in advance. Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve to maintain the crispness of the vegetables. Mix everything together right before serving for the best texture!
What Can I Replace the Cilantro With?
If you’re not a fan of cilantro, parsley is a great substitute that provides a fresh taste. You could also try fresh mint for a unique twist, or simply omit it if you prefer a simpler flavor profile.
