Corn Salad Recipe

If you are looking for a vibrant burst of flavor that celebrates the best of summer’s bounty, you have to try this Corn Salad. It is a dazzling combination of sweet, juicy corn, crisp vegetables, zesty lime dressing, and the creamy tang of crumbled Cotija cheese. Each bite offers a fantastic mix of textures and colors that makes it such a crowd-pleaser, whether as a side dish or a light main. The Corn Salad perfectly captures that fresh, garden-to-table feeling and will quickly become your go-to recipe for effortless entertaining or a nourishing everyday meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these simple, fresh ingredients is the key to creating a spectacularly flavorful Corn Salad. Each one brings its own unique character—whether it’s the sweet crunch of fresh corn, the vibrant pop of bell peppers, or the zingy brightness of lime juice—working together harmoniously to delight your taste buds and eyes alike.

• 4 large ears of fresh corn: Fresh corn provides the sweet, juicy base that makes this salad sing with flavor.
• 1½ cups bell peppers, diced: Use a colorful mix of red and green for a visually appealing and crunchy addition.
• 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved: They add juicy bursts of sweetness and vibrant color that bring the salad to life.
• 1 cup English cucumber, diced: Crisp and refreshing, English cucumber adds a cooling contrast without overwhelming the flavors.
• ½ cup red onions, finely diced: Adds a mild bite and a hint of sharpness that balances the sweetness.
• ⅓ cup fresh cilantro, roughly chopped: Brings a fresh, herbaceous note that brightens every bite.
• ¾ cup fresh Cotija cheese, crumbled: Adds a creamy, salty finish that perfectly complements the vegetables.
• 3 tablespoons avocado oil or extra virgin olive oil: Provides a smooth, fruity base for the dressing.
• ¼ cup fresh lime juice: About 2 medium limes that add a zesty tang and help tie all the flavors together.
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar: Adds mild acidity for balance and brightness.
• 1 tablespoon honey: A touch of natural sweetness to round out the dressing.
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard: Adds subtle depth and helps emulsify the dressing.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for enhancing and pulling all the flavors together.
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley: Offers a mild herbal undertone.
• ½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds gentle heat and complexity.
• ¼ teaspoon ground cumin: Lends a warm, earthy note that complements the sweetness of the corn.
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder: For a subtle savory punch.
• ¼ teaspoon chili powder: Brings a hint of smoky spice to awaken the palate.

How to Make Corn Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

Start by combining all the dressing ingredients in a small jar with a tight-fitting lid: the avocado or olive oil, lime juice, red wine vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, dried parsley, black pepper, cumin, garlic powder, and chili powder. Shake it vigorously to blend into a smooth, tangy dressing. This zesty mixture will infuse the entire Corn Salad with irresistible flavor, so make sure it’s well combined. Then pop it in the fridge to chill and let the flavors marry while you prepare the rest.

Step 2: Prep the Vegetables

Wash and dry all your fresh produce to ensure your salad stays crisp and fresh. Dice the bell peppers into uniform pieces for even bites; halving cherry tomatoes gives those juicy pops of sweetness; dice the English cucumber without peeling for extra texture; finely dice the red onion for a subtle sharpness; and roughly chop the cilantro to release its fragrant oils. To keep the salad from becoming watery, lay the cut veggies on paper towels to blot off any excess moisture before tossing everything together.

Step 3: Cook the Corn

Boasting fresh corn is the highlight of this salad. Boil water in a large pot with about two tablespoons of kosher salt—this step enhances the corn’s natural sweetness beautifully. Add the corn cobs and let them cook for exactly four minutes; this brief boil ensures the kernels remain crisp-tender, not mushy. Don’t skip the timer here—this little trick makes all the difference in texture.

Step 4: Cool and Cut the Corn

Immediately transfer the cooked corn cobs to a colander and rinse under cold running water to stop the cooking and lock in that perfect crunch. Pat dry each cob, then carefully cut the kernels off by standing the cob upright and slicing down with a sharp knife. Keeping the kernels intact without digging into the cob ensures you get beautiful whole bites in your Corn Salad.

Step 5: Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, combine the freshly cut corn kernels with the diced bell peppers, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, diced red onion, and chopped cilantro. Gently toss the ingredients to distribute everything evenly, setting the stage for the dressing to work its magic.

Step 6: Add Dressing and Cheese

Grab your chilled dressing from the fridge and give it a good shake to recombine any separated ingredients. Pour it over the salad and toss gently but thoroughly to coat every bit of vegetable and corn. Finally, sprinkle the crumbled Cotija cheese over the top and fold it in carefully—this creamy, salty component takes the Corn Salad over the top in taste and texture.

Step 7: Serve or Store

You can serve your Corn Salad immediately to enjoy its freshest crunch and bright flavors. If you’re prepping ahead, keep it covered in the fridge for up to 3 days, but consider adding the dressing and cheese just before serving so the texture stays vibrant and the salad doesn’t get soggy.

How to Serve Corn Salad

Garnishes

Adding a few thoughtful garnishes can elevate the Corn Salad even more. Sprinkle a handful of extra fresh cilantro leaves or a little more Cotija cheese right before serving. A light dusting of smoked paprika or a few slices of ripe avocado can also add beautiful color and an extra layer of flavor.

Side Dishes

This Corn Salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats like chicken, steak, or fish, making it an ideal side for BBQs or weeknight dinners. It also complements richer dishes such as creamy mashed potatoes or rice, creating a bright, fresh counterpoint that balances the meal perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve individual portions of Corn Salad in hollowed-out bell peppers or colorful lettuce cups. You can also layer it as a vibrant side on a taco bar or spoon it atop grilled flatbreads with a drizzle of extra dressing for a casual appetizer. The possibilities are as delightful as the salad itself.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Corn Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It keeps nicely for up to three days, but the flavors and textures are best when eaten sooner rather than later to maintain that fresh crunch and brightness.

Freezing

Because this salad is packed with fresh vegetables and cheese, freezing is not recommended as it will affect the texture and taste negatively. Enjoy this salad fresh for the best experience.

Reheating

There’s no need to reheat Corn Salad since it’s intended to be enjoyed cold or at room temperature. If your salad has chilled too much, simply let it sit out for 15 minutes before serving to bring out the flavors more vividly.

FAQs

Can I use frozen corn instead of fresh?

While fresh corn is ideal for its sweetness and crunch, you can use frozen corn in a pinch. Just thaw and drain it well to avoid excess moisture. Keep in mind the texture may be slightly softer than fresh.

Is Cotija cheese necessary?

Cotija adds a salty, tangy creaminess that complements the salad beautifully, but you can substitute it with feta or queso fresco if needed. Each option brings its own unique flavor twist.

Can I make this Corn Salad vegan?

Yes! Simply omit the Cotija cheese or replace it with a plant-based cheese alternative or some toasted nuts for added texture and richness.

How long does the dressing keep?

The dressing can be prepared ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to one week. Always give it a good shake before using as ingredients may separate over time.

What other herbs work well in this salad?

Besides cilantro, fresh parsley or basil can be lovely additions or substitutes, depending on your flavor preference. They bring a fresh, herby note that enhances the overall taste.

Final Thoughts

This Corn Salad is truly one of those recipes you’ll find yourself reaching for again and again. It’s fresh, colorful, and bursting with flavors that celebrate the best of simple ingredients coming together in perfect harmony. Whether you’re serving it at a family picnic, a weekday dinner, or as a zesty side at your next gathering, it’s sure to bring smiles and happy taste buds. Go ahead, make this Corn Salad a staple in your kitchen—it might just be your new favorite!

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