Summer Corn Salad Recipe

When the sun is shining, and fresh corn is in season, there’s nothing better than a bright and flavorful Summer Corn Salad. This easy, colorful dish is packed with sweet corn, crunchy vegetables, and a tangy lime dressing. It’s perfect for barbecues, potlucks, or as a light, refreshing side dish for any meal. 🌽🥗

Summer Corn Salad is the ultimate warm-weather dish, celebrating the sweetness of fresh, crisp corn. Tossed with bell peppers, red onion, and a zesty lime vinaigrette, this salad is as vibrant as it is delicious. It’s a versatile side that pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, seafood, or simply on its own for a refreshing bite. Best of all, it comes together in minutes!

Why You’ll Love This Summer Corn Salad

This salad is simple, refreshing, and bursting with fresh flavors. It’s a great way to use up seasonal produce and can be customized to your liking with different vegetables, herbs, or even cheese. The tangy lime dressing perfectly balances the sweetness of the corn, making it a delicious and healthy option for any occasion.

Main Ingredients for Summer Corn Salad

Each ingredient in this recipe has been chosen to create a flavorful and refreshing salad that’s perfect for summer gatherings:

• Fresh Corn (4 ears, kernels removed): The star of the salad, fresh corn adds sweetness and crunch.
  • If fresh corn isn’t available, you can use frozen corn (thawed) or canned corn (drained).
• Red Bell Pepper (1 medium, diced): Adds a pop of color and a crunchy texture to the salad.
  • You can substitute with yellow or orange bell peppers for variety.
• Red Onion (½ small, finely chopped): Provides a sharp, tangy bite that complements the sweetness of the corn.
  • You can substitute with green onions for a milder flavor.
• Cucumber (1 small, diced): Adds a refreshing, crisp texture to the salad.
  • English cucumber works best as it has a thin skin and fewer seeds.
• Cherry Tomatoes (1 cup, halved): Adds juiciness and a burst of acidity to balance the sweetness of the corn.
• Cilantro (¼ cup, chopped): Fresh cilantro adds a bright, herbal note that ties the salad together.
  • If you’re not a fan of cilantro, you can use parsley or basil instead.

For the Lime Vinaigrette:

• Olive Oil (3 tablespoons): The base of the dressing, adding richness and helping the flavors meld together.
  • You can use avocado oil for a slightly different flavor profile.
• Lime Juice (2 tablespoons, freshly squeezed): Adds a tangy, citrusy punch that brightens up the entire salad.
  • Fresh lime juice is key for the best flavor.
• Honey (1 tablespoon): Balances the acidity of the lime with a touch of sweetness.
  • Substitute with maple syrup or agave nectar for a vegan option.
• Salt and Pepper (to taste): Enhances the flavors of the salad and dressing.

Benefits of Ingredients

• Corn is a good source of fiber and essential vitamins like B vitamins and antioxidants. It adds both sweetness and texture to the salad.
• Lime juice not only brightens the flavor but is also rich in vitamin C, which supports the immune system.

How to Make Summer Corn Salad: Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Corn: Start by cooking the corn. You can grill, boil, or steam the corn cobs until the kernels are tender and slightly charred if grilling (about 3-5 minutes per side on a grill). Once cooked, allow the corn to cool slightly before cutting the kernels off the cob.
   • Grilling the corn adds a smoky flavor, while boiling or steaming preserves the natural sweetness. Use whatever method you prefer.
2. Chop the Vegetables: While the corn is cooling, dice the red bell pepper, cucumber, red onion, and halve the cherry tomatoes. Chop the cilantro as well. Place all the vegetables in a large mixing bowl.
   • Try to dice the vegetables evenly for the best texture and appearance in the salad.
3. Make the Lime Vinaigrette: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, freshly squeezed lime juice, honey, salt, and pepper. Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning to your preference.
   • For extra flavor, add a pinch of chili flakes or cumin to the dressing.
4. Assemble the Salad: Add the cooled corn kernels to the bowl with the vegetables. Drizzle the lime vinaigrette over the top and toss everything together until well combined. Make sure all the vegetables are coated with the dressing.
5. Chill and Serve: For the best flavor, allow the salad to chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
   • Garnish with extra cilantro and a squeeze of fresh lime juice for an extra burst of flavor before serving.

Tips for Perfect Summer Corn Salad

• Use Fresh Corn: Fresh corn provides the best flavor and texture. If using frozen or canned corn, make sure it’s thawed and well-drained to avoid excess moisture in the salad.
• Chill the Salad: Allowing the salad to chill in the fridge for 30 minutes enhances the flavors and makes it more refreshing, especially on a hot day.
• Customize to Your Liking: Feel free to add other ingredients like avocado, black beans, or feta cheese for extra flavor and texture.

Frequently Asked Questions About Summer Corn Salad

Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! This salad is actually better after it has had some time to chill and the flavors have melded. You can make it up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator.

What other vegetables can I add?
You can add vegetables like avocado, zucchini, or black beans for more texture and flavor. Feta or cotija cheese would also make a great addition.

Can I use canned or frozen corn?
Yes, if fresh corn is not available, you can use canned or frozen corn. Just be sure to thaw and drain the corn before adding it to the salad.

How long does this salad last?
This salad will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store it in an airtight container and give it a good toss before serving to redistribute the dressing.

What can I serve with Summer Corn Salad?
This salad pairs well with grilled meats like chicken, steak, or shrimp. It’s also a great side dish for burgers, tacos, or fish.

This Summer Corn Salad is the perfect way to enjoy fresh seasonal produce. The sweet corn pairs beautifully with the crunchy vegetables and zesty lime vinaigrette. It’s a versatile dish that can be served at barbecues, potlucks, or as a light side dish. Feel free to customize with additional vegetables or even some cheese for extra flavo